Solutions for acoustic and vibration challenges in gyms and fitness centres

With the growth of gym locations in inner cities having the potential to create noise conflicts with commercial and residential neighbours, Pavigym has shared its experience about the importance of acoustic and vibration isolation in gyms.

A specialist in acoustic, noise and vibration control as well as being a leading international producer and supplier of quality and durable gym floors, Pavigym is aware that as the number of gyms and fitness centres rise, so are noise complaints and lawsuits against these facilities.

The Spanish company explain “working out should be hard ... but not because of the noise.

“Gyms have multiple sources of noises and vibrations - falling weights, cross-training users dropping barbells and cardio machines - (and), added to that, large spaces also have the problem of echoes. “And these complications need to be solved right away to avoid bigger issues.”

The importance of acoustic isolation in gyms
With gyms located across all types of urban locations such as near offices or housing complexes, Pavigm Sales Director for Australia and New Zealand, Michael Smith explains “as a result, noise and vibrations can cause complaints and costly fines, or restrictions regarding opening hours.

“We all know that gyms are not libraries, but limiting noise is beneficial for both your users and staff - and of course for neighbours. Plus, it will keep costs down.”

Pavigym explain there are also health reasons for keeping noise levels down, with Smith noting “high levels of noise can cause losing of hearing in users that turn the volume up to drown down the high levels of background noise.

“Aside from ear damage, excessive noise can also increase hypertension, worsen sleep problems, and harm cardiovascular health - all contrary to the benefits that a gym aims to provide.

“However, the biggest problem is the damage that can be produced on the building. After many weight drops, the structure can be weakened and repairing it is much more costly than avoiding such damage.

“Therefore, having a proper protection between the floor and the subfloor is essential to avoid major problems in the future.”

Reducing noise and vibration in the gym
Smith goes on to state “one of the most obvious sources of noise in the gym is the weight area. Dropping weights is not only a reality, but also a trend. People are training more and more with free weights and activities such as cross training involve the fall of dumbbells and barbells in each workout. 

“Therefore, when looking for acoustic isolation for a gym, it is advisable to analyse which activities are performed in each area and what level of absorption is needed (as) not all spaces will need the same type of flooring and the same kind of acoustic solution.”

Gym noise: low-frequency sounds
Smith adds “a gym is not a theatre, a cinema or a disco. The most dangerous noises in gyms are not only the ones coming from loud music but also low-frequency sounds. These sounds are caused by the vibrations generated from heavy impacts on the floors and walls, for example in weight and machine areas.

“The best way to manage this low-frequency noise is to tackle the issue at source - ensure you have the appropriate flooring.”

Pavigym’s Solution
Pavigym has released a new Acoustic range designed exclusively for gyms which dampens vibrations, preventing sound from travelling through floors and walls, reducing echoes, and reducing the effects of heavy impacts on the floor.

Lorenzo concludes “in the same way that insulation fills the gap between the outside and the inside walls, Acoustic underlay flooring provides a layer of cushion and support between a sub-floor and the gym floor.”

Click here to contact Pavigym via their entry in the Australasian Leisure Management Supplier Directory.

Images courtesy of Pavigym.