By Anna Segota, Staff Writer
While I try to stay as active as possible, going on walks or runs will always be my favorite form of exercise. I always try to shoot to get in that six-mile morning run; some days, I don’t feel pumped up enough to do it. In the spring and summer, if I’m feeling a little bit lazy or just want to slow things down for the day, I’ll forgo the track and go on what one may consider “a hot girl walk.” Usually between two and four miles, my personal “hot girl walks” are laid back, relaxing and typically end with me stopping at my favorite deli to get a sandwich the size of my head, eating back about half the calories I just burned.
Doo Wop (That Thing) by Ms. Lauryn Hill: This is THE official anthem of the hot girl walk. It’s upbeat with an amazing rhythm, and Ms. Lauryn Hill is singing the absolute truth on this track. With a BPM of 100, this is the perfect song to start your walk.
State Of Grace by Taylor Swift: Now, before you all boo me, this song is made for movement. Whether it’s for your walk, car ride or train trip, TS will get you going on this track. Off of her best album, Red, State of Grace is going to give your “hot girl walk” the speed it needs.
Back On 74 by Jungle: You may recognize this song from a dance trend that was going around a few months ago, which makes sense because every time I hear Back On 74, I have to resist the urge to start grooving. Side effects of listening to this track may include a pep in your step and a lust for life.
Jazz Is For Ordinary People by Berlioz: Not to be confused with the romantic era composer of the same name, Berlioz creates a wonderful blend of jazz and house music perfect for dancing, walking, or any activity. I like to listen to this song while walking around the park, enjoying the shade of the trees.
Duvet by Bôa: On a more mystical note, Duvet is perfect for a hot girl walk a little later in the day, just as the sun sets. Whenever you listen to this song, you can’t help but see life a little more magical than it is, as a haunting chorus and gorgeous acoustic guitar bridge serenade you.
Didn’t Cha Know by Erykah Badu: Keeping the chill vibes going, this track is definitely for a slower-paced walk. Stopping to smell the roses and admire the scenery, it doesn’t matter where or when on your walk you’re listening to this track by Erykah Badu, and your worries will be melted away.
Jazz (We’ve Got) By A Tribe Called Quest: Another jazz fusion track, A Tribe Called Quest, just can’t miss it, especially regarding their The Low End Theory album. You may recognize this track from your Gen X dad’s vinyl collection, but that doesn’t mean that it’s just nostalgia that makes this song sound good. After all, what’s hotter than recycling?
VIRGO’S GROOVE By Beyoncé: I may be biased as I am, in fact, a Virgo sun, but this is one of the best tracks off of RENAISSANCE. I don’t think I have to convince you to listen to this one. Anything Mrs. Carter makes is bound to be incredible.
LDN by Lily Allen: Lily Allen’s description of “city life” fits New York just as much as it does London. This upbeat pop-rock track is for the final stretch of your walk, pushing you to keep going and hit that extra mile to get in those 10,000 steps.
The World Is Yours by Nas: Once again, 90s hip hop is arguably the best genre to listen to on a hot girl walk. Sandwich bag and iced beverage in hand, this song is for finding a good bench to eat your treat on, or if your deli is close enough, get back home. Finishing on a high but relaxed note is important. You shouldn’t be tired after a hot girl walks and shouldn’t feel restless either. You should feel even more right if the sandwich is good enough. Feeling refreshed, satisfied and above all, happy. That’s what a hot girl walk is all about.