Graphic by Makayla Montgomery, Graphic designer. I am a freshman majoring in Exercise and Nutrition Science at the University of Montevallo. I care a lot about my health and my body, so I spend a lot of time in the weight room in the Student Activity Center. The weight room is in dire need of some speakers. Every gym that you go to plays music over speakers for everyone. Music has been scientifically proven to improve exercise by helping you push through fatigue according to a study by Costas Karageorghis. Not only does it distract you from pain and fatigue, but it also elevates mood and increases serotonin levels.
The weight room without music is very quiet. It feels awkward to talk to anyone because your voice can be heard from across the room by speaking at a normal level. No one wants to have to whisper at a gym. A gym should always have an upbeat mood. It’s a place where you’re supposed to go be energized and work hard. Walking into a quiet gym can be a mood killer and can even make it difficult to stay motivated. Nearly everyone brings their own headphones to listen to their own music. But we’re all human and can either forget them at home or forget to charge them the night before.
I asked some people I know who go to the weight room regularly if they would like to see this implementation. Every person I asked said they think it would be a great idea. No one wants to workout in silence.
Best regards,
Wesley Burdett
