Sound Intensity Levels of Volume Settings on Cardiovascular Entertainment Systems in a University Wellness Center

Abstract

As wellness centers across the nation continue to expand and entertain its patrons, a potential serious health issue may become more prevalent. When using the integrated entertainment systems within the cardiovascular equipment, intensity levels are able to reach levels that could contribute to noise-induced hearing loss. This research discovered that volume settings that are a part of the integrated entertainment systems of this equipment can reach intensity levels that exceed a safe listening level. In addition, the manufacturer default volume settings were found to be borderline at safe listening levels. This research identified excessive sound intensity levels at specific volume settings on three different types of cardiovascular equipment. Fitness administrators, professionals in hearing science, and wellness center patrons should collaborate to understand the potential impact for hearing loss when listening to this equipment at excessive sound intensity levels.