In a remarkable marriage of pop culture and medical science, Monash University’s Victorian Heart Institute researchers revealed that over 50 Taylor Swift songs have the perfect beats per minute (bpm) for efficient chest compressions during CPR. This Fearless initiative seeks to turn Swift’s songs into a rhythm guide for life-saving CPR, bridging the gap between music fans and critical life skills.
Move over ‘Stayin Alive’: a fresh beat for modern CPR
While the Bee Gees’ Stayin’ Alive has long been used as a metronome for CPR compressions, its 1977 release may not appeal to today’s younger generations. Dr. Stephen Nicholls, director of the Victorian Heart Institute, highlights the necessity for a modern artist with a faster beat, closer to the suggested 120. Taylor Swift, a modern music icon, takes on this critical role, creating a more relevant and effective soundtrack for CPR teaching.
BPM breakdown: the science of Swift’s song selection
Nicholls emphasizes the importance of keeping the chest compression rate between 100 and 120 bpm during CPR. The researchers thoroughly examined Swift’s catalog, locating 54 songs that fit inside this essential range. Their findings were presented at Swiftposium 2024, an academic conference focused on the intersections of Taylor Swift and numerous disciplines.
Swifties in action: transforming music into life-saving skills
“A quarter of people who have a heart attack don’t make it to the hospital in the first place, and we know that survival rates for cardiac arrest can be greatly improved with bystander CPR,” says Nicholls. Taylor Swift’s music, which is influential and widely liked, becomes a powerful instrument for empowering people to learn CPR, a skill that has the potential to save lives. The researchers have even prepared a Spotify playlist called ‘Taylor Swift CPR Compatible Songs‘ for easy access.
Taylor’s impact on heart health: treadmill challenges and CPR Beats
Swift’s influence extends beyond CPR, as proven by the wildly popular ‘Eras Tour’ treadmill challenge. Fans replicate Taylor’s dedication to fitness by running or walking on a treadmill throughout the three-hour tour setlist. Dr. Nicholls emphasizes the connection between physical activity, heart health, and Swift’s impact, stating, “Even as little as 10 minutes a day is beneficial as you build up your fitness. You don’t need to be able to Shake It Off like Taylor on day one.”
The American Heart Association supports the unique concept, recommending the use of Taylor Swift’s songs to give effective chest compression. The combination of music and life-saving skills creates a synergistic attempt to attract younger audiences and make CPR instruction more accessible.
