Young athletes lock in for their race with tunes. Photo Illustration Courtesy of sophomore Kunal Patel. 

  At San Luis Obispo High School you can’t go anywhere without seeing someone wearing headphones, but how does this affect athletes? Studies show that avid music listeners have better mental well-being and also reduced anxiety and depression. 

  This can help athletes in a major way because if an athlete is going through a lot of stress because of an upcoming game, listening to music before the game could help calm their nerves and play better.  

  “If I need motivation, specifically when I’m working out or getting through tasks, I will play certain songs,” said SLOHS football and baseball coach Kobi Ikenoyama.

  Music is helpful to us in other aspects of life, especially mentally. For example, students and staff at SLOHS can listen to music if they are having a rough day.   

  “Music can help either amplify the mood that you’re currently in or it can be used to change the mood you’re currently in,” said SLOHS PE and Football coach Patrick Johnston. 

  Many athletes listen to music to hype themselves up for their upcoming event, whether that be a football game or a track meet. Not all athletes listen to music, but for many, it is very helpful for their pregame mindset.

  “Listening to music makes me ready to play. It gets me locked in for what’s coming next,” said sophomore basketball player Cole Bramer.

  Being an athlete comes with a lot of responsibilities and stress, and music is a great counter to those emotions. Keep listening to music and stay locked in Tigers!

  Sources: Health.Harvard.Edu