Running Through the '80s

Lace-up your Nikes and step into the time machine — we're running through the '80s. We've carefully sorted through the songs of the decade to provide you with the highest-grade sonic fuel to power your pace, from the pep-squad pop of Toni Basil and "Mickey" to the mind-over-matter rhythm and snap of Janet Jackson's "Control." We've got Duran Duran to keep you "Hungry Like the Wolf" and A Flock of Seagulls to state the obvious on their Euro-dance smash "I Ran." Don't stop now. Next Steps is where you'll hit your stride.

Only with iTunes can you flash back and race ahead all at the same time, with an '80s playlist to keep your run right on track. As you set out to burn up the road, cue up some seminal synth-pop from Blue Peter, who offer sound guidance with "Don't Walk Past," after which Salt-n-Pepa are only too happy to lay down the beats to help you "Push It." Meanwhile, a brassy alt-rock groove from INXS is the perfect way to remind yourself that it's "What You Need." Sprint to the finish line, with more '80s greats in Deep Cuts.

With a whole decade to choose from, our '80s playlists have the grooves to suit your mood while you keep the pavement flying by. Go for the dogged optimism of Loverboy's "Working for the Weekend" or the shiny, happy sounds of Wham!'s "I'm Your Man" to keep your pace. Meanwhile, the uplifting synth-glucose of "Safety Dance" by Men Without Hats will help fuel your runner's high. And when you're ready for that final adrenaline rush, fire-up Big Country's surging "In a Big Country."

It was the decade when the fitness craze really hit its stride, so it only makes sense that the '80s would offer up so many songs so perfectly paced for running. Whether you're up for a miles-long marathon or a fast dash, we've got the sounds to send you on your way — from Michael Jackson's dance-pop monster "Thriller" to the heart-pounding allure of Robert Palmer's "Addicted to Love" to the inspiring one-two punch of "Eye of the Tiger." As for the mesh shirt and neon spandex running pants, well, we're gonna leave that up to you.