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A new study published by British researchers answers a question you may have thought about once or twice while at the gym: can listening to music during an exercise get you a better workout? The study tested twelve subjects and the researchers found that the faster the music was played, the more effort one puts into the workout. When switching from low key to up tempo music on a bike, one starts to peddle faster and heart rates rises. The study tested male college students, not seniors, but the findings still seem relevant. We should note that the relationship between music and exercise is not fully understood, as no one is really sure why we respond to music the way we do. With that being said, there is nothing that precludes these finding from holding relevance with seniors. Studies show that music increases your motivation to get to that "next" level, a method that might keep aging adult from having a passive, stagnant workout. Getting on a stationary bike and riding for an hour isn't enough of a cardiovascular workout in and of itself, as the aging athlete needs to challenge himself/herself. Next time you feel as if your workout routine needs a boost, put on a pair of headphones and listen to some high-paced techno music. While it might not be as soothing as listening to the sounds of Sinatra, it will help you to perfect your aerobic workout. Phys Ed: Does Music Make You Exercise Harder? - (The New York Times)