Can Lower Music Levels Preserve Workout Intensity? - Takeaways - 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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  • 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.

Original Source(s)

Can Lower Music Levels Preserve Workout Intensity?

  • by Kathryn Wighton

  • May 22, 2026

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