Can Lower Music Levels Preserve Workout Intensity? By Kathryn Wighton May 22, 2026 Conexiant Share Summary Takeaways Listen Insight Report Clinical Scorecard Quiz Poll Top Institutions 1 Reducing music volume by 3 dBA in fitness classes maintained perceived exercise intensity compared to louder sessions. 2 The study involved 189 participants who completed 239 postclass surveys in a Los Angeles fitness studio. 3 Mean perceived exertion scores were 6.61 in louder classes and 5.96 in quieter classes, with a noninferiority margin established. 4 Only 2% of participants used hearing protection, and 15% reported experiencing tinnitus after classes. 5 The study suggests that lower sound levels can create safer auditory environments without compromising workout effectiveness.
