To determine if reducing music volume in group fitness classes affects perceived exercise intensity, specifically hypothesizing that lower volumes would not diminish perceived exertion.
Key Findings:
Mean Borg scores were 6.61 in louder classes and 5.96 in quieter classes, with an adjusted difference of -0.66 units.
Noninferiority was maintained for reductions up to 4 dBA but not at 5 dBA.
44% of participants attended three to five classes per week; 33% had over 5 years of experience, with a median age of 28 years and 87% female.
Interpretation:
Quieter classes were considered noninferior to louder classes for perceived exertion.
Limitations:
Observational design limited causal interpretation and generalizability due to a sample primarily consisting of younger adults from a single studio.
Classes were not randomized; instructors were aware of volume changes, which may have influenced participant responses.
Conclusion:
Lowering sound levels in group fitness classes did not diminish perceived workout intensity, supporting the feasibility of creating safer auditory environments without compromising workout effectiveness.
