Prolonged exposure to loud music in gym environments, especially in group exercise rooms, can affect hearing health. Audiologist Natalie Calderon, associated with HearUSA, stresses that protection matters for anyone spending time in these settings. Health news sources often echo this cautionary note.
Rhythmic, upbeat music in workouts can lift mood and boost motivation, which in turn supports a consistent exercise routine. Calderon notes that music in many group fitness classes frequently reaches high volumes, sometimes surpassing 90 decibels. In some cases, listeners may even experience levels around 100 decibels, a range comparable to the noise of powerful outdoor machinery.
Experts from the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommend limiting daily exposure to noise at 94 decibels to about one hour. For noises around 100 decibels, the advised limit drops to roughly 15 minutes per day. These guidelines aim to protect the delicate structures of the inner ear during regular activity and work-related tasks.
When the ear is exposed to very loud sounds, either briefly or for extended periods, the hair cells in the cochlea can suffer damage. Continuous loud music in workouts may lead to tinnitus, the perception of ringing in the ears, and can contribute to long-term hearing loss. This risk increases with higher volumes and longer listening times, a reality that should be weighed alongside the benefits of a motivating soundtrack.
Attention to personal listening levels is equally important. Calderon advises keeping headphone volume at about 60 percent of the device’s maximum and limiting listening to 60 minutes at a time to minimize potential harm.
Overall awareness and practical steps can help protect hearing while still enjoying music during workouts. Regularly checking volume levels in both gym settings and personal devices can make a meaningful difference in long-term hearing health.
References to this topic emphasize how the brain processes music during exercise and why sound levels matter for sustaining auditory health over time. These insights come from clinicians and researchers who study auditory science and the impact of sound on mood and performance. (Calderon, HearUSA; Health news summaries on auditory health)