Can Lower Music Levels Preserve Workout Intensity? - Report - MDSpire

Can Lower Music Levels Preserve Workout Intensity?

Despite preserved exertion perceptions, researchers report limited hearing protection use in group fitness classes.

  • By

  • Kathryn Wighton

  • May 22, 2026

  • 4 min

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Clinical Report: Can Lower Music Levels Preserve Workout Intensity?

Overview

A study found that reducing music volume by approximately 3 dBA in group fitness classes did not significantly affect perceived exercise intensity. The findings suggest that quieter environments can be maintained without compromising workout effectiveness.

Background

The impact of music volume on exercise intensity is an important consideration for fitness professionals, especially in group settings where auditory environments can affect participant experience and safety. High sound levels in fitness classes may pose risks to hearing health, making it crucial to explore alternatives that maintain workout efficacy while ensuring auditory safety.

Data Highlights

{'table': [{'Condition': 'Louder Classes', 'Mean Sound Level (dBA)': 91.4, 'Mean Borg Score': 6.61}, {'Condition': 'Quieter Classes', 'Mean Sound Level (dBA)': 88.5, 'Mean Borg Score': 5.96}]}

Key Findings

  • Quieter classes (88.5 dBA) were noninferior to louder classes (91.4 dBA) for perceived exertion.
  • The adjusted difference in Borg scores between louder and quieter classes was −0.66 units.
  • Noninferiority was maintained for sound reductions up to 4 dBA.
  • Only 2% of participants reported using hearing protection during classes.
  • 15% of participants experienced tinnitus following classes.

Clinical Implications

Fitness professionals may consider lowering music volume in group classes to enhance auditory safety without compromising perceived workout intensity. This approach aligns with current guidelines on safe listening levels and can help mitigate potential hearing risks associated with high sound exposure.

Conclusion

The study supports the feasibility of creating safer auditory environments in fitness classes while maintaining workout effectiveness, highlighting the importance of sound management in exercise settings.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Hori K., Choi J.S., JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery, 2025 -- Can Lower Music Levels Preserve Workout Intensity?
  2. inside dentistry — Low-Magnitude High-Frequency Vibration in Periodontal and Implant Therapy
  3. Impact of Preferred Musical Selections on Performance in Laparoscopic Surgery: A Randomized Crossover Investigation
  4. European Journal of Preventive Cardiology — Is Increased Frequency and Duration of Exercise More Beneficial than Higher Intensity for Patients with Heart Failure and Preserved Ejection Fraction?
  5. Basic Research in Cardiology — Dose-dependent effects and mechanisms of exercise-like stimulation on cardiac injury and contractile function: outcomes of the MICRO-ATHLETE study
  6. WHO hearing guidelines implemented at major arts festival
  7. Physical Activity and Exercise Intensity Terminology: A Joint ACSM Expert Statement
  8. Lower Music Volume Levels in Fitness Class and Perceived Exercise Intensity - PubMed

Original Source(s)

Can Lower Music Levels Preserve Workout Intensity?

  • by Kathryn Wighton

  • May 22, 2026

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