There’s no doubting the excellence of the '80s. From track suits and aviators to Frogger and Rubik's cubes, the '80s were filled to the brim with awesome. But what brought this decade of rad to an unforgettable level was, undoubtedly, the music. In our opinion, the most wicked '80s music came from movie training montages.
So crank up these classic synthpop tunes, grab your posse, and book it to the gym. Each beat will fuel you with the drive of Rocky, the ambition of Ren, and the wisdom of Mr. Miyagi. Pound that pavement, roundhouse kick your competition, or simply lift your way to greatness. Tubular!
1
"Training Montage" - Vince DiCola, "Rocky IV"
via MGM/UA Entertainment Company
"Rocky IV" proves that highly-advanced training tools like the treadmill and the leg-extension machine are no match for the awesome muscle-building power of Mother Nature. We can all change!
2
"You're The Best" - Joe "Bean" Esposito, "The Karate Kid"
via Columbia Pictures
Nothing says the '80s like "The Karate Kid." Nothing says "I'm going to get amped and lift the shit out of these weights and maybe practice my roundhouse kick" like listening to this classic movie tune.
3
"Danger Zone" - Kenny Loggins, "Top Gun"
via Paramount Pictures
Goose is talking to you. He's saying this song will improve your pump. Oh, and he's also saying you should never leave your wingman.
4
"Maniac" - Michael Sembello, "Flashdance"
via Paramount Pictures
Sometimes, you get to the gym and realize you've forgotten your leg-warmers. Don't worry: If you listen to this song, you can still channel your inner flashdancer while you're pumping iron.
5
"Hearts on Fire" - John Cafferty, "Rocky IV"
via MGM/UA Entertainment Company
If you're not using a yoke, wheelbarrow, or bag full of heavy rocks in your training regimen, you're doing it wrong.
6
"Push It To The Limit" - Paul Engemann, "Scarface"
via Universal Pictures
Channel your inner Montana and heed the lyrics that say there's nothing strong enough to stop you. Dear Salt-n-Pepa, we don't just push it "real good"—we push it to the limit.
7
"Holding Out For A Hero" - Bonnie Tyler, "Footloose"
via Paramount Pictures
Strong? Fast? Larger than life? Whelp, you're ready for the role. Take a note from Mr. Bacon: Lace up your dancing shoes and prove that a hero is more than just a sandwich. Mmmm. Bacon.
8
"Eye OF The Tiger" - Survivor, "Rocky III"
via MGM/UA Entertainment Company
Having the "eye of the tiger" is about more than right hooks, upper cuts, and laps around the ring in Apollo Creed's patriotic trunks. It's all about focus and that will to survive. And cardio, lots of cardio. Our prediction? Pain.
9
"Let's Hear It For The Boy" - Deniece Williams,
"Footloose"
via Paramount Pictures
Go ahead, snap your fingers and two-step your way to the weight rack. We understand.
10
"Gonna Fly Now" - Bill Conti, "Rocky III"
via MGM/UA Entertainment Company
Great song. Works best when paired with gray sweats, orange sweat bands, and a race up the steps to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Culture for the win.
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