Music volume is just as important as music selection. It is important that participants enjoy the full class experience with music they love at a volume they can handle. Music volume and instructor projection are two components that deserve good attention.
Volume should not exceed 90 decibels (dB). Exposure to noise levels greater than 90dB can damage a person’s hearing. Additionally, audiologists recommend turning up the bass and lowering the treble. This is because high frequencies can be more damaging than low frequencies. There are several apps that can be used to help you determine the volume in your group exercise class
Example decibel meter apps
Sound Meter & Noise Detector
Click or tap for Google Play Store.
Sound Meter & Noise Detector
Click or tap for Apple App Store.
Sound Meter – Decibel
Click or tap for Google Play Store.
Sound Meter – Decibel
Click or tap for Apple App Store.
Decibel X:dB Sound Level Meter
Click or tap for Google Play Store.
Decibel X:dB Sound Level Meter
Click or tap for Apple App Store.
The average phone mic is limited to the 30-96 dB range (the human voice being an average of 40-60 dB.) Some phone mics start higher and end lower. For the most accurate results with any app, test it with an actual sound meter and calibrate your chosen app to your individual phone; doing that can get you accurate results within the capabilities of your phone.
In addition to protecting everyone’s hearing, it is important that instructors protect their voice.
- Use a microphone if one is available. Speak in a normal tone of voice when using a microphone.
- If a microphone is not available or if class is taught in a large auditorium or gymnasium, lower the music volume. Clearly project your voice.
- Practice meaningful cues that use the least amount of words. Say more by saying less.
- Incorporate more visual cues.
Instructors desiring to purchase their own microphone system might consider:
- Shure wireless headset system to include:
o Headset
o Wireless receiver
o Body pack transmitter - Aker voice booster amplifier
Verbal and visual cueing will be practiced in the next section.
Master Your Music
Determine the role music will play in your class
What is the purpose/objective of the music for the class format?
- Warm-up: prepare and inspire.
- Work: strength, cardio, dance, mixed impact, stability, mind-body focus – choose the style and BPM to elicit the desired response.
- Cool-down: transition from work to flexibility.
- Final stretch & relaxation: completion, relaxing.
Musical Phrase and BPM
Music licensed for the group exercise class setting assists instructors to hear the beats and phrases to keep the group working together and at a safe tempo for the activity.
Music selection
Choose music that contributes to the overall class experience. Select from a variety of genres, styles and decades appropriate for the class format and the participants. Our music partner, Yes!FitnessMusic, has hundreds of great CDs and digital downloads to choose from. Or create your own custom mix from the thousands of available songs.
Volume
Music volume is just as important as selection. Music volume should not exceed 85dB – 90dB. Participants should be able to hear instructor cues over the music. Protect your ears. Protect your voice.