Audiobooks to listen to while you work out
Jason Boog
Why audiobooks are perfect for working out
I exclusively listen to audiobooks while running, and I need something that's funny, compelling, or completely immersive. With a good book, I don't even notice that I'm running. Fable readers had different opinions about why audiobooks make exercise easier. "I exercise early each morning, aided with audiobooks. Some days I don't feel like getting up to work out, but I do look forward to listening to my audiobook! For me a winning workout audiobook is really anything that gets me out of bed," said Fable reader Abram.In contrast, Fable reader Robin sees it as a mental workout. "Listening to audiobooks and pounding miles takes right-left brain cohesion to the next level," wrote Robin. "Anyone can push their Pump Up the Jam playlist… but to listen, visualize, and comprehend? Good on ya!"Other people just want the distraction, like Fable reader Amanda: "I like listening to thrillers and mysteries when I work out! The suspense of the book keeps me working out longer, and the added adrenaline helps me push more weight!"Best motivational audiobooks for hard workouts
Some readers use audiobooks to push themselves farther. For instance, Fable reader Trevor recommended "Can't Hurt Me" by David Goggins because "you'll run farther and get a better workout!"“Greenlights” by Matthew McConaughey
Fable reader Amy: "I haven't listened to a memoir like this before and I'd definitely listen to another. I really enjoyed this. It felt very honest. And I loved his story from when he was young.""Go Tell It on the Mountain" by James Baldwin
This book absolutely gutted me when I read it with the LeVar Burton Book Club a few years ago. The musical prose and gripping story kept me motivated for a whole week of runs. Baldwin's semi-autobiographical novel has inspired me as a writer and human being ever since.“Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen” by Christopher McDougall
Everand reader JP: "Even if you're not a runner, the narrative leading up to this 50-mile race in the Mexican wilderness will make you interested, and the relevant scientific research will help you see why that interest might be deeply embedded in our brains."“Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds” by David Goggins
Fable reader Caleb Fuchs: "Such an amazing story he tells from his traumatic childhood to his journey to the SEALS and his journey to being an ultra-marathon athlete. He gives you tools and tips to use your mind against itself and to reach your full potential."Best thriller and mystery audiobooks for cardio
Other Fable readers love twisty books when they take walks or go for a run like me. I know I'll be trying some of these books!“Listen for the Lie” by Amy Tintera
Fable reader Ally: "This was a fantastic thriller that I would absolutely recommend. I didn't see quite a few twists coming and was really satisfied with how it all came together."“Judge Stone” by James Patterson, Viola Davis
Fable reader Mccane: "The hold this book had on me should be illegal. Overall, it was a great read and it absolutely needs to be turned into a movie ASAP. Also, now I want to own a farm, don't judge me."“Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers” by Jesse Q. Sutanto
Fable reader Eli: "The funniest book I have read in a long while, I laughed so much from beginning to end. Vera is every Asian lady/auntie and I love it so so much"“The Tainted Cup” by Robert Jackson Bennett
Fable reader DoctorNyk: "I had a good time with this book. I would read a whole ten-book series with these characters!"“The God of the Woods” by Liz Moore
Fable reader Cathy C: "This was more than just a good, suspenseful thriller to me. It was a commentary on women's stations in life, generational family alliances, and an exploration of what it means to be truly self-reliant. I'm excited to read more from this author."“Yellowface” by R.F. Kuang
Fable reader Harmony Price: "Wow. I started this book and couldn't stop listening until I was done. It was done so well and captured so many messages in such a clever way. So much is packed into this book, and I will definitely be thinking about it for a while. Side note: I was worried I would miss out audiobooking this due to the different media forms throughout, but the audiobook was still so good and captivating."Best fantasy and sci-fi audiobooks for long workouts
Fantasy and sci-fi kept coming up, and I know why. Being transported to another world makes any exercise so much easier. My two-mile runs breeze by with books like these."Parable of the Sower" by Octavia E. Butler
One of the most life-changing reads I've ever encountered, I'll never forget reading this while running through Los Angeles neighborhoods. Truly eerie. Everand reviewer Dennis wrote: "Narration was amazing. I didn't want it to end. Six stars."“Red Rising” by Pierce Brown
Everand audiobook reader Mike: "The masterful kickoff to a series that has blown me away at every corner. I randomly landed on this one from my library at first. I had no prior knowledge or introduction to the series and was not prepared for how entertaining this entire series turned out to be."“Conform” by Ariel Sullivan
Fable reader Haley: "things got so absolutely wild in the last 20% that i literally had to throw the book down and walk away, pacing my room, muttering curse words, undoubtedly shook. i'm on a book high now and i have no words to convey just how much fun i had reading this book. I heavily recommend; you should add it to your TBR POST HASTE! love love love, can't wait for the next book!"“Fairy Tale” by Stephen King
Fable reader Danisha: "This book was exactly what I didn't know I needed. Like any good fairy tale, this one grows in waves of shadow and light. It's dark, tense, and magically sad—and in the end, it left me smiling."“Circe” by Madeline Miller
Everand reader Rachel: "Deep and raw, this story brings what it means to face our own mortality to the forefront. It bravely accepts our flaws as part of our existence and provides space to be known and loved. Beautifully written and profound, this book is a must-read."“The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien
Everand audiobook reader Alex: "Such a classic and beautiful adventure, the fact that it's a full cast really makes you get immersed in the story. Loved it!"“The Poppy War” by R.F. Kuang
Fable reader mmu: "I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCHHH Rin is such an iconic, strong and unforgettable protagonist and the way the book changes from a dark academy to a war book is genuinely so fluid and like so unexpected."“Every Heart a Doorway” by Seanan McGuire
Fable reader Lauren: "Currently searching for my door. A school to help teens adjust after being sent back from the individual fantasy worlds they loved and lived in, plus a murder mystery. Pleasantly surprised, and will read the rest of the series now."“Vicious” by V.E. Schwab
Everand reader HBH: "My first time reading this book was when I was getting back to reading after stopping for multiple years, and it has changed my life ever since. It showed me why I loved reading and it made me learn more about my taste in books. Revisiting it now by listening to the audiobook was such a great experience. The audio narration was very good."“Mythos” by Stephen Fry
Fable reader Bri: "Absolutely loved this. Someone recommended that if one truly wanted to understand Greek mythology. I loved how informative, conversational, and witty Stephen Fry's writing was. I learned so much from this book. Listening to this audio with him narrating is definitely the best way to go with this one."Best literary fiction audiobooks for walks and easy days
If you know me, you know that I read a lot of literary fiction. Not all of it works for my runs, but lots of Fable readers turn to literary fiction during workouts. For instance, Fable reader Mendy thought "Daisy Jones and the Six" made the ideal exercise book: "it's easy to follow along and engaging during a run. The all-cast version is the one to go with.""Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
My fellow Fable editor Megan reminded me of this book. I found it absolutely captivating on my morning runs. "If you want to get lost (figuratively) behind the wheel, Americanah is the perfect immersive love story," writes Megan.“Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt
Fable reader Lynnie: "This book shattered me and then put me back together. Marcellus absolutely has stolen my heart, and I will be thinking about him for a long time, maybe forever."“Daisy Jones and the Six” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Fable reader Amy: "Loved the story! The audio was great with the multi-person cast. I was crying by the end, I just really enjoyed this one."“Theo of Golden” by Allen Levi
Fable reader Chuck: "I was floored by the way this debut author was able to convey such emotion in his writing and the beautiful way in which he described the scenery of Golden, but also the inhabitants. It was a powerhouse of a novel that I'm so glad I decided to read!"“This Story Might Save Your Life” by Tiffany Crum
Fable reader Bec: "A heartfelt and uplifting read. The writing flows beautifully, making it easy to connect with the characters and their journey. It's the kind of book that makes you reflect while still leaving you with a sense of hope."“Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman
Fable reader Rose: "Fredrik Backman is undoubtedly one of my favorite authors. I love his witty writing style, and the way his books makes one sad and happy at the same time. I've a few more books of Backman to read. But I preserve it to read at times I need a warm hug from books. This book is about a group of anxious people. But it's a comfort read that falls in the feel-good genre."“Carrie Soto Is Back” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Fable reader Rachelle: "BEAUTIFUL!!! TJR rips my heart out every time, but the absolute perfection of her writing kills me. I have absolutely no interest in tennis, but could not put this down!!"Frequently Asked Questions
Are audiobooks good for working out?
Yes! Readers like Mgogo say that the right audiobook can motivate you: "I felt so seriously pumped to work out." At the same time, different genres have different effects. Fable reader Hailey explained: "Something spicy usually gets my blood pumping and helps me hit new PRs. But if you're running, do a horror book."What is the best audiobook genre for the gym?
24 different Fable readers mentioned "Dungeon Crawler Carl" by Matt Dinniman as a great workout audiobook. It combines hilarious banter, an immersive setting, and non-stop action. All these elements make it an ideal book for the gym.Can you listen to audiobooks while running?
Of course! Tons of Fable readers bring audiobooks on runs, both as a distraction and inspiration. "I started listening to the third Dungeon Crawler Carl book on my 18-mile run this weekend," Ericalinch said. "It definitely kept me entertained while I ticked off miles."How long should a workout audiobook be?
The length of the audiobook doesn't matter as much as the content. However, a sci-fi series can make a few months of training go much faster. "I enjoy running to sci-fi stories," explained Fable reader Kate. "I listened to the Expanse series during my last half-marathon training block and loved it!"Where can I listen to these audiobooks?
Every audiobook on this list is available on Everand and Fable. Each title links directly to the audiobook page where you can start listening.Want to read these titles? Sign up for a free 30-day trial to Everand, a digital subscription that gives you instant access to millions of bestselling ebooks, audiobooks, and so much more. Start reading on the web, iOS, Android, and even offline.
Jason Boog