I Love Kickboxing, a kickboxing studio and gym in Alpharetta, Georgia, builds out their gyms in existing retail spaces with other neighboring businesses. They came to Commercial Acoustics with the task of keeping loud music and workout noise from entering neighboring spaces by applying a Gym Acoustic Treatment, as well as keeping construction costs down in the building of a new studio space.
The solution? Using our Wall Blokker Pro vinyl barrier over the existing layer of drywall and a finish layer of 5/8” drywall to achieve an STC of 55 in their demising walls. Wall Blokker Pro can be installed below the exposed surface of the wall during the construction phase of new projects to reduce noise by up to 75%. As is often the case with gyms and workout studios, there are significant attenuation requirements to prevent excessive noise complaints in the future.
Using the Wall Blokker Pro over the existing drywall kept I Love Kickboxing from having demolition costs and from having to build a second wall, allowing them to keep more workout space available for clients. It will also prevent noise complaints, keeping both management and neighbors more satisfied and productive.
There were operational considerations as well. Primarily, we often ask gym trainers and owners to consider using a centrally-controlled audio system to regulate the dBA level during gym classes. Since trainers often have varying preferences on the dBA level, it is critical to set a maximum decibel level on the audio system to prevent excess noise. Some studies have indicated that loud, continuous gym noise is the leading contributor to deafness in many active adults. Exposure to over 90-95 dBA for hour-long intervals approaches the OSHA limits for safe levels of sound intensity on your ear drums.
By combining operational and architectural approaches, we provided a gym soundprooing option that met the client’s intent.
Gym Acoustic Treatment Options
As we’ve written about in the past, there are a number of ways to soundproof the walls and ceilings in your gym. In order to reduce noise gym complaints, remember to design your gym with acoustic standards in mind, and contact an acoustic consultant when in doubt.
If you are interested in learning about the sound treatment of workout spaces, refer to this case study for more information.
Do you have a question about acoustical treatments for gyms? Please contact us here.
