When I go to a group fitness class, the instructor always says that the cool down is the most important part of the workout.  Usually at that point I’m antsy to get out of the room and on with my day, so it takes all of my power to find patience and stretch with the group.  One thing that helps is good music.  There is a lot more freedom for cool down music because it does not have to have a certain cadence.  It adds a nice level of variety to the workout mix.  On principle I try to stick with positive, uplifting cool down songs, but every once in a while there’s an irresitable darker ballad that makes it on the list.  Here’s what I’ve been listening to lately.

Cool Down/Relaxing Music

1. How Will I Know (Glee Version) by Glee Cast
2. The Longest Time by Billy Joel
3. Sunday Morning by Maroon 5
4. Hero by Mariah Carey
5. Heartless by Kris Allen
6. Ave Maria by Beyonce
7. Stickwitu by Pussycat Dolls
8. Everything by Michael Buble
9. Vultures by John Mayer
10. The Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding
11. Never Ever by Ciara
12. Back at Your Door by Maroon 5
13. Cry (Glee Version) by Lea Michele
14. Fire and Rain by James Taylor
15. Missing You by John Waite
16. Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
17. How Deep is Your Love by The Bird & the Bee
18. It’s Growing by James Taylor
19. Energy by Keri Hilson
20. Keep Your Head Up by Andy Grammar

In case you forgot, I already offered my recommendations for workout songs in the following categories: Old School, Top 40, Girl Power, and Hardcore/Motivational.  Check those posts out for more ideas.

What cool down songs do you like to listen to?