Running Tunes: 2010s Anthems

The 2010s were a transformative decade, marked by the rapid rise of technology that changed the way we connect, consume, and create. Smartphones became an essential part of daily life, with the iPhone leading the charge. Social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter dominated, giving birth to the selfie culture and propelling influencers to celebrity status. Remember when selfie sticks were everywhere? Streaming services like Spotify reshaped how we listened to music, and whether it was pounding pavements or tackling trails, the right playlist became the ultimate workout companion.

Musically, the 2010s were a melting pot of genres. From chart-topping pop hits by the likes of One Direction and Justin Bieber, to the high-energy beats of Calvin Harris, Swedish House Mafia, and Avicii, this decade had something for every mood. Tracks like "Levels" and "We Found Love" fuelled countless runs, while songs like "Happy" and "Call Me Maybe" brought the perfect boost of feel-good energy. Hip-hop and pop crossovers from Pitbull, Flo Rida, and LMFAO provided infectious rhythms to keep the pace strong. The diverse sounds of this era created the ideal soundtrack for a run, no matter the distance.

Little did we know, as the 2010s closed, the world was on the cusp of one of its most challenging chapters. But for now, let’s take a trip back to the days of carefree scrolling, endless playlists, and the tunes that soundtracked our runs and workouts.

Tracklist

• Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe – A feel-good hit to ease you into your run with light, catchy vibes.
• Ellie Goulding – I Need Your Love – A smooth, energetic track to set a steady rhythm early on.
• Clean Bandit – Rather Be – Uplifting beats to help you settle into a comfortable pace.
• Ed Sheeran – Sing – Playful and upbeat, perfect for getting into your stride.
• Ava Max – Sweet but Psycho – Upbeat and fun, ideal for building up energy before the main run.
• Calvin Harris – We Found Love – An iconic, high-energy anthem to maintain a solid pace.
• LMFAO – Party Rock Anthem – Infectious and fun, keeping your energy high mid-run.
• Robin Schulz – Sugar – A smooth beat to keep you moving without missing a step.
• Flo Rida – Work Hard, Play Hard – A no-nonsense banger to push you forward when it counts.
• Swedish House Mafia – Don’t You Worry Child – Epic beats that keep you focused and moving strong.
• Justin Bieber – Sorry – A catchy, rhythmic tune to keep your feet light and steady.
• Daft Punk – Get Lucky – Funky and cool, perfect for cruising through the middle of your run.
• Pitbull feat. JLo – On the Floor – A lively track to remind you you're having fun while pushing forward.
• Avicii – Levels – The ultimate running anthem for when you’re in the zone.
• One Direction – What Makes You Beautiful – Fun and upbeat, ideal for feeling great mid-run.
• Rag'n'Bone Man & Calvin Harris – Giant – A strong, empowering beat to keep you on track.
• Macklemore & Ryan Lewis – Can’t Hold Us – An explosive track to push you towards the final stretch.
• Tiësto & Dzeko ft. Preme & Post Malone – Jackie Chan – High-energy beats to fuel your last big effort.
• Dynoro & Gigi D'Agostino – In My Mind – Pulsing rhythm to help power through the final miles.
• Sigala, Becky Hill – Wish You Well – Fast-paced and uplifting, perfect for staying focused at the end.
• Jason Derulo – The Other Side – A track that drives you to push harder as you near the finish.
• The Chainsmokers & Coldplay – Something Just Like This – An inspiring anthem to help with the final burst.
• Avicii – Wake Me Up – The perfect track for an extra energy boost before the finish line.
• Pharrell Williams – Happy – Light-hearted and joyful, a great way to keep spirits high in the final stretch.
• Tones and I – Dance Monkey – Fun and fast-paced, keeping you energized to the end.
• Ke$ha feat. Pitbull – Timber – High-energy and bold, perfect for giving your all in the last moments.

A quick note (that I have to repeat every week!):

As much as we all love running to a great playlist, please be mindful of your surroundings when you're out with your headphones in. Keep the volume low enough to hear traffic, people, or any surprises along the way. Your safety comes first – so don't get too lost in the music!