Remaining active is an important part of living a healthy life. It helps keep our minds and bodies healthy, boosting our mood and improving our strength and flexibility. Wearing hearing aids can offer some challenges when trying to stay active. However, with a few tips, you can easily take a job, spin class, yoga, or hike outside.
This post will explore how hearing aids don’t have to hinder your active lifestyle. With modern technology, it’s easier than ever for those wearing hearing aids to enjoy sound and movement.
Exercising with Hearing Aids
Small and powerful, hearing aids help those with hearing loss hear better. These devices process sound signals through a microphone, processing them before sending them to the ear. While exercising, the surrounding environment can change significantly. Between sweat and environmental noise, it could be difficult with older-style hearing aids.
However, with modern technology that can protect hearing aids from sweat and humidity, some even provide noise reduction measures, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.
Exercising with Hearing Aids
There are a few simple steps you can take to ensure your hearing aid is safe during exercise.
- Secure your devices
When we exercise, hearing aids can move and even, at times, feel loose. You can use retention cords, headbands, and hearing aid clips to keep them in place. - Keep them dry
Protecting your hearing aids from sweat and moisture is important. Be sure to wipe your hearing aids dry after each workout. You can also use a dehumidifier overnight. - Use protective gear
When playing contact sports like basketball or soccer, it is best to remove your hearing aid so it doesn’t get damaged. However, while practicing yoga, walking, or Pilates, your hearing aids will be safe to wear. - Adjust your settings
Be sure to use different settings for different environments. While outdoors, consider using a wind reduction setting. While in a noisy gym, use a speech-in-noise program that allows you to better focus on your trainer’s instructions. - Store them properly post-workout
When you’re done exercising, remove your hearing aids and store them in a dry, cool place. Avoid leaving them in your gym bag or car, where heat and humidity can cause damage.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids During Exercise
While some might consider removing their hearing aids before working out, wearing them can actually improve your workout experience. Hearing the sounds around you can keep you safe, particularly while jogging in traffic, cycling on a shared path, or working out in a group fitness class.
Your hearing aids help you connect with the world; the same is true when you exercise. Many hearing aid models allow you to stream music or other audio sources to your smartphone, allowing you to listen to music while working out. Some even provide fitness trackers too.
And there’s a social benefit, too. Being able to hear your workout buddies or instructors clearly makes group activities more enjoyable and engaging. You won’t have to worry about missing instructions or feeling left out of conversations.
Combining Fitness and Hearing Health
Staying active doesn’t just improve your body; it can also benefit your hearing. Regular exercise increases blood flow throughout your body, including to your inner ears, which can help maintain healthy hearing cells. In fact, studies have shown that people who exercise regularly are less likely to develop age-related hearing loss.
If you already use hearing aids, keeping up with your fitness routine helps you maintain both your physical and auditory well-being. Think of it as a full-body approach to staying healthy—one that includes your ears, too.
Final Thoughts
Exercise and hearing aids can absolutely go hand in hand. With the right care, equipment, and habits, you can enjoy your workouts while staying aware of your surroundings and connected to the world around you. Today’s hearing aid technology makes it easier than ever to stay active, confident, and in control, so you never have to miss a beat.