Health experts have called for a reduction in music volume during exercise classes, following a new study that indicates lower sound levels do not significantly affect workout intensity.
The Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) has endorsed this, describing it as a "simple step" individuals can take to protect their hearing.
The research, spearheaded by experts at the University of Southern California in the US, analysed data from 189 participants in weight training sessions across Los Angeles.
It compared classes where music blared at 91.4 decibels with quieter sessions at 88.5 decibels, concluding that the volume had no meaningful impact on the amount of exercise performed.
Researchers performed surveys on participants after each class to gauge the level of exertion.
They found that the level of effort put in by the class attendees in the quieter classes was “non inferior” to those in the louder class.
“Reducing music volume in group fitness classes did not lead to meaningful reductions in perceived exertion and may reduce the risk of noise-induced hearing loss,” the authors wrote in the journal JAMA Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery.
Commenting on the study, Franki Oliver, audiology manager at the hearing loss charity RNID, said: “Exposure to loud sound levels is one of the leading causes of hearing loss and tinnitus, but the good news is it’s also one of the most preventable.
“Lowering the music volume levels in fitness classes is a simple step to reduce this risk while still enjoying the experience; people should also make sure they are a safe distance from the speakers in the room.
“If you’re ever worried about your hearing after a loud exercise class, or after repeated exposure to loud noise levels, speak to your GP.
“One quick and easy thing you can do straight away from home is RNID’s free online hearing check at rnid.org.uk.”
