Effect of simultaneous exercise and noise exposure (music) on hearing

Hearing thresholds were measured in 12 subjects prior to and following their participation in three experimental conditions: (a) riding a cycle ergometer for 20 minutes; (b) listening to a selection of music at an equivalent intensity of 96 dB(A) SPL for 20 minutes; and (c) listening to the music while riding the cycle ergometer for 20 minutes. Analysis of the results shows a measurable and statistically greater noise-induced temporary threshold shift (NITTS) for the music plus exercise condition that for either of the other two conditions. The greatest differences were seen in the 3-6 kHz frequency range. These results suggest an increased susceptibility to NITTS and, by extension, to increased potential for permanent hearing loss when noise exposure is coupled with exercise. The results have implications related to contemporary lifestyle issues such as aerobics and the utilization of personal music systems during physical exertion.