Staying active is important for your overall health, and if you wear hearing aids, there's no reason to stop exercising. Many modern hearing aids are designed to fit comfortably and securely, allowing you to focus on your workout without worrying about your devices. However, it’s natural to wonder how to protect them while staying active. With just a few adjustments, you can confidently hit the gym, go for a run, or enjoy a yoga session with your hearing aids.

Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when exercising with hearing aids, so you can continue your active lifestyle without skipping a beat.

Choose the Right Hearing Aids for Your Activity Level

Not all hearing aids are the same; some may be better suited for exercise than others. Behind-the-ear (BTE) models, for example, are more exposed to sweat and moisture compared to in-the-ear (ITE) or in-the-canal (ITC) devices. If you lead a very active lifestyle, consider hearing aids with a higher moisture resistance rating. Look for models with water-resistant features or a coating that repels sweat. This simple consideration can help protect your device while keeping you moving.

Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry

Sweat can be a concern for anyone working out with hearing aids, but there are steps you can take to protect them. Using a sweatband or headband is an easy way to shield your hearing aids from moisture. This added layer helps keep sweat away from the device while keeping it secure during intense activities. You might also want to invest in hearing aid covers or sleeves, which are specially designed to protect the devices from moisture and debris.

After your workout, it's a good idea to give your hearing aids a quick wipe with a dry, soft cloth. If you’ve been especially active, placing them in a hearing aid dehumidifier overnight can help eliminate any remaining moisture.

Secure Your Hearing Aids During Movement

One concern while exercising is keeping your hearing aids secure. Certain physical activities, especially those involving jumping, running, or quick movements, might cause your hearing aids to shift or come loose. To prevent this, you can use sports clips or hearing aid retention cords designed to keep your devices in place. These accessories are lightweight and comfortable, ensuring your hearing aids stay put even during high-energy workouts.

Wearing a snug hat or headband during outdoor activities can also help secure your hearing aids while keeping you comfortable.

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

When you're at the gym, on a hike, or cycling, it's crucial to stay aware of your surroundings. Hearing aids can enhance your situational awareness, but they can also pick up background noise, which might make it harder to hear traffic or other potential hazards.

If you're exercising outdoors, adjust your hearing aids’ settings to reduce wind noise and avoid distractions. Some hearing aids offer customizable modes for different environments, allowing you to focus on the sounds that matter most. This way, you can still enjoy your music or podcast while staying alert to what's happening around you.

Avoid Overheating Your Hearing Aids

Just like you, your hearing aids can overheat during exercise. Extreme temperatures can impact their performance and longevity. To protect them, avoid leaving your hearing aids in direct sunlight or exposed to high heat, such as in a hot car after your workout. If you plan to exercise outdoors, try to keep your hearing aids shaded or remove them during breaks to prevent overheating.

In addition, use a protective case when storing your hearing aids while resting or cooling down. This keeps them safe from both heat and any accidental damage.

Know When to Take Them Out

While it's often okay to wear your hearing aids during exercise, there are times when it's better to take them out. Activities like swimming or contact sports may put your hearing aids at risk of damage. In these cases, removing your devices is the best option to avoid exposure to water or impact. If hearing is critical during these activities, consider waterproof hearing aids or assistive devices like bone-conduction headphones that work in tandem with your hearing aids.

When you take your hearing aids out, store them in a safe, dry place until you're ready to use them again.