If you’ve used that gym membership for the first time in a long time, you’re not alone. Winter is a great time to get serious about your workout regimen. With a new year comes renewed exercise commitments we hope will stick. Regardless of whether you’re an avid runner, a gym rat or a mall walker, every productive workout deserves a motivational playlist. And don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Christian music isn’t all ballads and mid-tempo worship anthems. Occasionally, your favorite K-LOVE artists also offer songs so upbeat you can’t help but move your body — and that’s the point. As the calendar turns the page, we took some time to curate some of our favorite mood-lifting bangers sure to put a spring in your step as you set new goals to ensure you stay healthy throughout the next 12 months. So fill up your Stanley, lace up your shoes and don’t forget your AirPods. Whether you’re counting crunches or hitting the treadmill, here are seven songs to help you keep your fitness resolutions this year.
“I Believe,” Phil Wickham
If Phil Wickham’s new single, “I Believe,” doesn’t get your heart pumping, not much will. Wickham declares his deepest convictions on the track that also serves as the title-cut of his most recent studio project. The frenetic hit quickly became a core memory for college students who attended Passion 2024 and worshipped alongside the three-time GRAMMY® nominee as he led Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium in the massive creed. It’s sure to be a marquee moment on his headlining trek this spring. The fist-pumping declaration lays a solid foundation for every believer’s doctrine with a bridge that finds Wickham affirming, “No, I’ll never be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. How could I ever walk away from the One who saved my life?”
“I Thank God,” Housefires, feat. JWLKRS Worship, Blake Wiggins & Ryan Ellis
Housefires sets their gratitude ablaze with “I Thank God,” the worship collective’s latest chart-topping single. The triumphant offering points our hearts and minds toward a Savior who freely gives unconditional love, resolute redemption and countless second chances. The collective’s core heartbeat of collaboration and community is immediately evident on the track churches around the world have long been singing. Previously recorded by Maverick City Music and UPPERROOM, the optimistic song is a careful blend of genres, melding modern pop with elements of house and world music — all culminating in a celebratory expression of worship. It will set a natural pace for your morning run or cardio workout. Featuring Housefires’ current key members Ryan Ellis and Blake Wiggins, as well as Noah Schnacky from JWLKRS Worship, the exuberant anthem hails from the group’s project, “How To Start a Housefire Part II.”
“I See Grace,” Micah Tyler
We dare you to crank up Micah Tyler’s song, “I See Grace,” and not bust a move. The foot-stomping track, which the Texas native wrote with Matthew West and Zach Kale, brings God’s mercy and love into sharp focus when set against our sin and shame. The Father’s gracious character shines brightly on the beat-heavy single that hails from his EP, “People Like Us.” The father of three says his daughter often reminds him of the importance of extending grace to himself. While the “Walking Free” singer admits he’s still learning the art of self-forgiveness, “I See Grace” has become his daily reminder that God’s grace is greater than all his sin. Tyler even borrows that pivotal line from the old hymn, “Grace Greater Than Our Sin,” for the memorable selection sure to lift your mood and your heart rate.
“Praise You Anywhere,” Brandon Lake
“Gratitude” might work for pilates, but it’s probably never going to motivate you to lace up your tennis shoes for a run. Luckily, Brandon Lake’s “Praise You Anywhere” will strengthen your mind, body and spirit. The uplifting anthem implores listeners to worship regardless of their circumstances and showcases Lake’s confident vocal across a heart-pounding drum pattern. Fans initially heard the faith-building track during a K-LOVE First event. “This song is about turning to praise in and out of every season. There are times when we’re surrounded by storms and times when we’re living in immense blessing… We light God’s heart up when we simply praise no matter what we’re facing,” Lake contends. “Your situation might not change, but choosing to praise will change your perspective. This will get your eyes off a storm and onto God. I hope as you listen to this song and choose to praise, you’re encouraged, and your faith is lifted.” There are several additional cuts from Lake’s LP, “Coat of Many Colors,” worthy of your daily workout playlist. So don’t sleep on the South Carolina native’s newest effort.
“My Story Your Glory,” Matthew West
Matthew West is an open book on his single, “My Story Your Glory,” which serves up a healthy dose of high-powered energy from the first note. The upbeat selection is also the name of the award-winning artist’s first double album, which bowed last year. With lyrics that remind us of the Romans 8:28 truth that God works all things together for our good, “My Story Your Glory” emphasizes that no chapter in our story is ever wasted. If the message isn’t motivation enough, the consistent hitmaker also provides a guitar-stacked track that will kick your exercise routine into overdrive. Actually, there’s quite a few songs from West’s discography that could easily soundtrack a satisfying workout. West’s latest single, “Don’t Stop Praying,” isn’t quite as primed for cardio, but it’s still definitely worth a listen during your cooldown.
“Hallelujah Feeling,” Caleb & John
Caleb & John’s debut single, “Hallelujah Feeling,” will have your adrenaline elevated in no time. Press play on this pop gem, and you’ll be praising the Lord and burning calories. Bringing a little Dan + Shay vibe to Christian music, the newly minted pop-worship outfit is comprised of Caleb Crino and John Secker. The hook-driven “Hallelujah Feeling” is based on Romans 15:13: “I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” “We love that hallelujah is more than a feeling. It’s the joy of the Lord, something anyone can have when they know Jesus,” Caleb says. “We are praying that this song encourages you so much!”
“These Are The Days,” Lauren Daigle
Show us a song more fun than Lauren Daigle’s “These Are The Days.” We’ll wait. It’s just not possible to stand still when you listen to the vibrant track. Your body will instantly be set in motion from the first colorful notes on Daigle’s upbeat follow-up to No. 1 ballad “Thank God I Do,” the lead radio hit from her acclaimed self-titled release. Sophomore single “These Are The Days” looks to the future as it anticipates the Lord’s return, but it also celebrates the hope He offers us in the here and now. On top of a cacophony of drums and guitars, the Louisiana native declares, “If it’s not good, then it’s not over.” Daigle’s latest is the ultimate workout jam, sure to pump you up and motive you to move. Plus, it will definitely put a smile on your face. Don’t miss the chance to show off your finely honed “These Are The Days” dance moves at a show near you this spring as Daigle traverses the country on her “Kaleidoscope Tour.”
