Effects of Music Tempo Manipulation on Morning Neuromuscular Strength and Cognitive Performance in Males: A Standardised Approach

Background/Objectives: We investigated whether being exposed to preferred music (110–130 beats·min−1) or music accelerated by 15%, played during morning exercise, influenced muscle strength and executive function assessed before and after exercise. Methods: Fourteen recreationally active males were recruited and completed seven sessions: (i) maximum (1RM) for bench press and back squat; (ii) three familiarisation sessions of strength and cognitive measures; (iii) three experimental conditions. Experimental trials were administered in a randomised counterbalanced design order of either preferred music at original tempo (MUS), preferred music accelerated by 15% (MUS15) during physical performance or no music (CON). On arrival, rectal and skin temperatures were measured alongside a battery of cognitive tests (trail making, Reys auditory verbal learning test, and Stroop word-colour interference test). Thereafter, isometric maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) with and without superimposed electrical stimulation was conducted and three repetitions were performed at 40, 60 and 80% of one repetition maximum (1RM) for bench press and back squat. Average force (AF), peak velocity (PV), time to peak velocity (tPV), and mean propulsive velocity (MPV) were recorded using MuscleLab linear encoders. The rate of perceived exertion and effort were asked after each set (RPE). Results: Music had no significant effect on MVC peak torque, % muscle activation, or key bench press and back squat outcomes. Most cognitive measures were unaffected, although time was perceived as faster during MVC (p = 0.022) on MUS. Conclusions: Music did not provide a significant acute ergogenic benefit for morning strength, power or cognitive function but may have modulated time perception.