The right podcast makes workouts fly by. Here are the best shows to keep you motivated, entertained, and pushing through your gym session.
High-Energy Entertainment
Pardon My Take
Fast-paced sports comedy that keeps you moving. Big Cat and PFT Commenter's energy matches workout intensity perfectly.
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68+ episode summaries
SmartLess
Will Arnett, Jason Bateman, and Sean Hayes bring high-energy celebrity interviews. Engaging enough to forget you're on the treadmill.
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Episode summaries available
Motivational & Mindset
Modern Wisdom
Chris Williamson interviews high performers about discipline, fitness, and success. Perfect pre-workout mental fuel.
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77+ episode summaries
Science & Performance
Huberman Lab
Dr. Andrew Huberman explains the science of exercise, recovery, and performance. Learn while you lift.
Best episodes for workouts:
- Science of Muscle Growth
- Exercise for Longevity
- Optimize Your Training
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71+ episode summaries
True Crime (Distraction Power)
Crime Junkie
Gripping true crime stories that make you forget about burpees. Episode lengths (30-60 min) match most workouts perfectly.
Match Podcasts to Your Workout Type
Cardio (30-60 Minutes)
- Running: Crime Junkie, The Daily, SmartLess
- Cycling: All-In Podcast, My First Million (business debates keep you pedaling)
- Treadmill: Pardon My Take, Comedy podcasts
Weightlifting (45-90 Minutes)
- Between sets: Joe Rogan (pause-friendly long conversations)
- Continuous: Huberman Lab (learn while lifting)
- High-energy: Dan Le Batard Show
HIIT/Circuit Training (20-30 Minutes)
- Fast-paced: Up First (news briefing)
- Motivational: TED Talks Daily
- Engaging: Short comedy podcast episodes
Workout Podcast Tips
- Download before you go - Gym WiFi is terrible
- Start episodes fresh - Don't resume mid-workout; start clean
- Match energy levels - High-energy for cardio, learning for lifting
- Use bone conduction headphones - Stay aware of your surroundings
- Create a workout playlist - Queue 2-3 episodes for long gym sessions
What NOT to Listen to at the Gym
- Complex business/finance: Save Invest Like the Best for desk work
- Slow-paced interview: Terry Gross is amazing, but not for cardio
- Heavy emotional content: Crying on the treadmill is awkward
Browse Workout-Friendly Podcasts
Browse Comedy Podcasts →
High-energy shows to power your workout
Browse Sports Podcasts →
Fast-paced sports talk for cardio