Is there a creative way to get the group fitness center to turn the volume down?
Hello Dana Heston,
My ACE Group Fitness Instructor c. 2011 book says the music volume should be under 85 decibels. References in approximations are: normal conversation in quiet place is 60-70 dB, alarm clock ring two feet away is 80 dB, chainsaw is 100 dB, and a jet plane takeoff is 120 dB. OSHA says ear protection needed for workers exposed to 90 dB over eight hour period. Extended exposure to above 85 dB can damage hearing as well as the instructor’s voice. The clients should be able to hear their own voice clearly at all times.
If people care about their health, is not hearing part of the story? The owner should be responsible enough to care about the public and safety issues.
I feel for you. Motivating does not need to be loud…the group atmosphere should be more than enough to get people going, with music in the background.
I hope this helps you; I am on your side.
Is it possible to decrease the electric power to the music source? Kidding…but I think I would do that if I knew how. Hmm, I have something else to look into now…kidding…or am I?
Take care,
Natalie.
Hi Dana,
I am sorry that you have to deal with this and that the gym owner is not receptive to your concern. Susan and Harris make great points. Unfortunately, other gym members often call it ‘motivating’, and if they are not supporting this, then you will have little recourse but to look at a different place.
Karin Singleton
www.meltnc.com
I agree with Susan. You can also ask the other participants in the class if they feel the same way. If they do, you can all complain to the owner of the gym and let her know that it is uncomfortable for you to participate. Otherwise you should look elsewhere for a different class. There are ways to fix the issue without having to suffer.
Best,
Harris
There are decibel guidelines for instructors.
If you are wearing ear plugs and are still having a hard time, just think about the others!
Find out who your teacher is certified through and find out what their guidelines are.
Safety comes in many forms when teaching a group exercise class, this is one of them.
The owner should be aware of this also, it’s important to maintain standards.