Managing Noise and Vibration in Gym Spaces

The Growing Popularity of Strength Training

Strength training has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people recognizing its numerous benefits. Whether individuals are looking to build muscle, increase strength, or improve overall fitness, strength training has proven to be an effective method. As a result, training spaces dedicated to strength training have also seen a rise in demand.

Lifting - Olympic weightlifting and powerlifting - has become something sought after in the mainstream. It’s a way of training embraced by anyone who wants to be stronger and perform better not only in sports, but in all aspects of their life. Regardless of the type of facility, the demand for lifting platforms, barbells and strength programs is undeniable.

However, along with the increased popularity of strength training comes the issue of noise and vibration. The sound and movement generated from weights being dropped can disrupt gym users and the surrounding environment or neighbouring businesses. Therefore, it is essential for gym and fitness facilities to address this issue and find effective solutions to mitigate noise and vibration.

Understanding the Effects of Noise and Vibration in Fitness Facilities

Noise and vibration in fitness facilities can have various negative effects. Firstly, excessive noise can be disruptive and unpleasant for gym users. It can make it difficult to concentrate, communicate, and enjoy the workout experience.

Furthermore, vibration caused by weights being dropped can lead to structural damage to the building. This can result in costly repairs and compromise the safety of the facility. It is crucial to understand the impact of noise and vibration to implement appropriate measures for their mitigation.

Choosing the Right Flooring Solutions for Sound and Vibration Reduction

One of the most effective ways to reduce noise and vibration in gym spaces is by choosing the right flooring solutions. Specialized flooring materials, such as rubberized mats or tiles and weightlifting platforms, can help absorb and dampen the impact of dropped weights. These solutions are designed to minimize vibrations and sound transmission, creating a quieter and more comfortable environment.

It is important to select flooring options that are specifically engineered for noise and vibration reduction as well as durability. Consulting with professionals in the field can provide valuable insights and recommendations on the best flooring solutions for each unique gym space.

With the right equipment, lifting weights can be performed in a manner that is inviting and creates incredible opportunities for facilities to provide members with an in-demand style of training that gets results – for members, trainers and operators alike.

Sound and Vibration Reducing Platforms

In 2017, Eleiko introduced a new lifting platform solution to the fitness industry – the SVR or Sound and Vibration Reduction Platform – transforming the training landscape and allowing facilities and members to embrace free weights and lifting in their clubs while keeping members and neighbours happy.

The first of its kind, the Eleiko SVR Platform combined an exclusive mix of materials that addressed three issues related to training with and dropping barbells – noise, vibration, and barbell bounce. Striking the perfect balance, the distinctive platform dramatically reduces the noise from barbell drops; the materials absorb the vibration and ensure a quieter, less disruptive experience. In addressing excessive bounce, the SVR distinguishes itself from other solutions.

Enabling a quieter training environment regardless of the type of training space, sound and vibration-reducing platforms are available for numerous use cases. From freestanding platforms catering to weightlifting to a smaller footprint platform well suited for deadlifts, to a range of platforms that integrate seamlessly into Prestera Half Racks, Double Half Racks and Power Racks; there is a way to cut noise from dropped weights, creating a more inviting and focused training atmosphere.

The SVR’s performance was verified with a scientific study conducted by an acoustical laboratory performing drop tests and recording the results with state-of-the-art sound equipment.

The study compared the sound levels generated by dropping 30kg from 1-meter height onto different surfaces, including 8mm tile, 30mm tile, weightlifting platform, and SVR platform. The 8mm tile was used as a baseline for comparison.

The SVR outperformed all other options tested, demonstrating a reduction of 25.7 dB from the baseline and 18.8 dB from 30mm tiles. A 10 dB reduction is a significant difference in perceived loudness – half as quiet or twice as loud. This means that the SVR platform can make the sound of dropped weights up to 1.8 times quieter than the 30mm tile or traditional weightlifting platform.

Watch the sound test video below and read more here.

Equipment Selection to Minimize Sound and Vibration

In addition to selecting appropriate flooring, choosing the right barbell can further minimize vibration in gym spaces. Using high quality equipment with tight tolerances in the fit between the bar sleeve and weight plates can significantly reduce the noise and rattling from the impact of dropped weights.

It is important to consider both the sleeve construction within the bar to ensure components and parts aren't loose and rattling, and then consider the way the bars and plates fit together as well as how secure the barbell collars are against the weight plates to minimize excess space that can cause noise and vibration when dropped.

Furthermore, regular maintenance and inspection of equipment can help identify any potential issues that may contribute to excessive noise and vibration. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and ensure a safer and quieter gym environment for all users.

Conclusion

In the world of strength training, managing noise and vibration is crucial in cultivating a welcoming and well-functioning training environment. Eleiko's SVR Platform, proven to outperform alternatives, reduces noise and absorbs vibrations, creating a pleasant and inviting training environment for all to enjoy.

Looking to deliver the ultimate lifting experience all members crave? Leading facilities turn to Eleiko racks, rigs, platforms and free weights to create engaging and future-proof training environments that appeal to a range of strength enthusiasts. To create the ultimate lifting experience for your members, contact us today.