Entering a gym is not supposed to make you feel drained. However, most fitness centers in Dubai are faced with the challenge of too much noise that makes their premises uncomfortable to both members and employees. The falling weights, the music of dropping weights, and the overlapping classes of groups make the acoustic noise that reduces the exercise experience.
We have been at Akinco more than ten years changing the fitness areas of Dubai with professional acoustic solutions. This guide is a reflection of our experience in developing balanced sound environments where motivation is combined with comfort.
Learning the Special Acoustic Problems of Fitness Spaces.
Gyms are among the most complicated acoustic environments that we are exposed to. Fitness facilities are a combination of several high-intensity noise sources unlike offices or restaurants where there is a relatively predictable pattern of sound.
The impact noise in weight training areas occurs when plates fall and equipment clanks. Fitness studios are run in groups where loud music is played to inspire the participants. Cardio zones are characterized by monotonous mechanical noises of treadmills and bikes. Reception areas need effective speech communication with background noises.
The competitive fitness market in Dubai is highly competitive and thus the acoustic quality is a very important differentiator. Members are demanding high-quality experiences that will be worth the membership fees. Lack of good acoustics results in complaints by members, premature cancelation of contracts and poor online reviews that hurt the reputation of your facility.
The reason why Professional Acoustic Treatment is important to your gym.
Most gym owners do not take the issue of acoustic problems seriously in their business. The effects are much more than mere irritation.
The retention of the members is affected negatively as individuals are unable to enjoy their workouts because of the high noise levels. Research indicates that unpleasant sound levels elevate stress hormones, which negate the stress-reducing effects that take people to gyms. Stressed members are seeking less noisy options.
Poorly treated acoustic environments increase staff burnout. Front desk employees and trainers have eight-hour shifts that are subject to high-volume noise. This long term exposure leads to fatigue, low job satisfaction and increased turnover.
The complaints of neighbors cause legal and relationship issues. Numerous Dubai fitness centers are located in mixed-use buildings where the transmission of sound to the neighboring offices, homes, or shopping areas causes complaints and possible lease breaches.
The quality of classes suffers when the instructors are unable to communicate. The back row participants have difficulty in hearing cues, and the individuals close to speakers are subjected to unbearable high levels. This lack of balance irritates the instructors and members.
Acoustic Zoning of Multi-Purpose Fitness Facilities.
Effective acoustics in the gym start by the realization that various areas need different strategies. At Akinco, we examine the acoustic requirements of each area and then suggest solutions.
Free Weight Areas
Impact absorption and sound containment are required in free weight areas. The initial defense against impact noise is heavy rubber flooring. Acoustic panels mounted on the walls absorb the contact of equipment at mid and high frequencies. Sound does not reflect in the facility because of strategic placement.
Group Fitness Studios
The fitness studios of the group need to have a balanced acoustics that will allow music to be played without causing too much reverberation. Excessive echo distorts bass frequencies and renders vocals incomprehensible. Our acoustic ceiling treatments and wall panels are installed to control reverberation time and yet preserve the energetic environment required by instructors.
Cardio Zones
Sound masking and absorption are advantageous to cardio zones. There is always background noise of mechanical hum of treadmills and bikes. Instead of combating this, we employ strategic acoustic treatment to avoid accumulation of sound and still achieve comfortable ambient levels.
Pilates and Yoga Studios
Pilates and yoga studios require the best acoustic control. These subjects are focused on tranquil concentration and teacher instruction. We build silent retreats with full acoustic treatment that prevents the outside noise and removes the internal resonance.
Selection of Materials to suit the Climate of Dubai.
The climate in Dubai is very extreme and the acoustic materials should be carefully chosen. Many traditional acoustic products are challenged by high temperatures, changes in humidity and dust infiltration.
Our PET polyester acoustic panels are very effective in the Dubai conditions. These eco-friendly panels are moisture resistant, do not hang in the heat and are easy to clean when dusty. PET panels do not lose their performance or looks in harsh environments as compared to the traditional fiberglass products.
The acoustic stretch fabric systems are flexible to design and offer good sound absorption. These systems provide smooth ceiling finishes that conceal mechanical systems and enhance acoustics. The cloth is not affected by the sunlight that is very strong in Dubai and enters through windows.
Acoustic insulation is installed in high-density in the wall assemblies to avoid the transmission of sound to the adjacent spaces. This is critical in gyms located in commercial buildings with lease agreements that have stringent noise provisions.
Practical Performance: Akinco Project Case Studies.
We have just finished acoustic renovation of a 3,000-square-foot boutique gym in Dubai Marina. The residential units above the facility complained of noise and the facility had a problem with retaining members because of uncomfortable sound levels.
The solution we came up with was a combination of ceiling mounted acoustic panels in the main training space, special bass traps in the corners, and better wall insulation. We have fitted acoustic barrier systems between the residential units above and the gym.
The outcomes were higher than anticipated. The reverberation time was reduced by 60 percent, which made the sound in the space significantly clearer. Drastic noise reduction was reported by the residents up the stairs. Above all, the satisfaction scores of members increased by 40 percent after renovation surveys.
The other project was a high-intensity interval training studio in Business Bay. The concrete and glass construction of the facility caused serious echo issues that made it almost impossible to communicate with instructors.
We used micro acoustic panels on wall between large mirrors, suspended acoustic baffles on the ceiling and acoustic rubber underlayment under flooring. These specific treatments addressed the problems of echoes without losing the modern look of the studio.
The Science of Good Gym Acoustics.
Knowledge of the fundamentals of acoustics can assist gym owners to make the right choices. Sound is predictable according to the material of the surface and the geometry of the room.
Sound energy is reflected by hard surfaces such as concrete floors, glass mirrors, and smooth walls. The sound that bounces back and forth between parallel surfaces produces flutter echo and standing waves. These phenomena render spaces harsh and tiresome.
Sound energy is absorbed by soft porous materials and transformed into little heat. The reflection patterns are interrupted by placing absorptive materials strategically to control reverberation. The aim is to achieve a balance of acoustics, rather than total sound suppression.
The various frequencies need different treatment methods. Music systems produce low-frequency bass energy that requires thick and dense materials or special bass traps. Standard acoustic panels are responsive to mid and high frequencies. Extensive solutions cover the entire spectrum of frequencies.
Long-Term Value and Investment Returns.
Professional acoustic treatment is a huge investment, and the returns are worth the investment. Better retention of the members means better bottom line. Maintaining only five more members a month can usually pay the acoustic treatment in the first year.
Less staff turnover costs less in recruitment and training. Favorable working conditions retain the experienced trainers who spearhead the satisfaction and referral of members.
Positive reviews improve the reputation which attracts new members. Satisfied members marketing through word of mouth offers continued value which cannot be matched by advertising.
Eliminating noise complaints will save legal expenses and possible lease termination. A single conflict with the building management or other tenants can be more expensive than a full acoustic treatment.
Working With Akinco: Your Dubai Acoustic Partner.
Akinco will add specialized knowledge to each gym acoustic project. We start with a thorough acoustic test with professional grade equipment. We check the current sound levels, determine the frequency of problems, and determine reverberation times.
Then, we create tailor-made treatment plans that will meet your unique issues without compromising your budget and aesthetic values. Our local warehouse in Dubai has high-quality acoustic materials, which can be deployed in the project quickly without delays in importation.
Our qualified installation team has done hundreds of projects in the UAE in regards to fitness facilities. We know local building codes, work hard to cause minimal disturbance and we guarantee our work with extensive warranties.
Designing Your Perfect Fitness Space.
Great gym acoustics do not occur by chance. They are a product of good planning, quality materials and professional installation. Professional acoustic treatment will turn good gyms into great ones whether you are designing a new facility or renovating an existing space.
The fitness sector in Dubai is still expanding and the expectations of the members are also increasing. Acoustic quality is an investment that will put your facility in a good position to succeed in this competitive market in the long term.
Call Akinco now and get a free acoustic evaluation of your gym or fitness studio. We will demonstrate to you how the acoustic treatment can be strategic to provide the comfortable, energizing atmosphere your members will appreciate.
About Akinco
Akinco is the most popular acoustic solutions provider in Dubai and focuses on commercial fitness facilities, hotels, schools, and industrial use. We have more than ten years of experience in the region and hundreds of successful projects, which provide us with acoustic excellence that improves comfort, performance, and satisfaction.