If the thought of hearing feet pounding on the treadmill, a squeaking elliptical machine or grunts of those macho muscle men power lifting makes you want to skip out on the gym, it's time to change the station.

One of the best ways to make your workout worthwhile is listening to music. Different genres produce varied results, which affect your exercise in multiple ways. Some music makes you run at speeds never thought possible, other music keeps you motivated to workout for long periods of time.

The key to success through music is figuring out what workout you need for the day and creating a playlist to keep you on track. If used correctly, expect your fitness level to soar and those numbers on the scale to drop.

TUNE IN FOR INTENSITY

To get a high intensity workout, try setting your playlist to songs that raise your heartrate. While you may not have a heartrate monitor on you at all times, figuring out what jams get you going is simple.

Think back to those songs you hear and make you immediately want to go out and party or hit up a punching bag. Songs that make you want to get out and do something are perfect for exercise.

While Beyonce and Rihanna do the trick for me, it's up to you to figure out what works. Play around with your music selection, try new things and you will find that raising the speed level of your workout is a piece of cake. Minus the calories.

MUSIC FOR MILES

Although getting an intense workout is necessary in any fitness routine, it's not a good idea to do everyday. At least twice a week it's important to get an easy workout in.

Easy doesn't mean go to the gym and socialize. It means exercising at a lower, less intense speed for a longer time period. While at first the thought of staying at the gym longer than usual may seem intimidating, tuning in to the right kind of music can make it less of a chore.

Think of that music you always wish you had time to listen to but never can. Exercise to it. Think of those songs that make you feel happy and leave you with a smile on your face. Exercise to them.

Intertwining exercise and good tunes gives you the best of both worlds. Not only are your spirits raised from getting in a good workout, but using those songs that put you in a good mood to keep you going makes the day altogether better.

So take advantage of your iPod and create the perfect playlist for the specific type of workout you need. For ideas on what music to use, check out http://www.shape.com/fitness/workouts/playlists/rock_your_workout.