How to Protect Your Microphone From Sweat – Tips from an Audio Technician

The fitness instructor's verbal instructions are an important part of the exercise experience. One of the best ways to make sure everyone can hear your voice is to have a properly working microphone. But even a properly working microphone can be damaged by sweat if you’re not careful. As audio technicians, we’ve seen it all!

As an audio technician, we understand the importance of a properly working microphone. A well-functioning microphone can make the difference between a successful performance and fitness class failures. A microphone that is not working properly can make an performer's voice sound muffled or distorted, disrupting the entire event.

In our experience, there are a few signs to look out for when determining if a microphone is working properly.

1. The first is that it should produce clear and natural sound. Any unwanted noise, such as hissing or static, is a sign of a faulty microphone.
2. Secondly, a properly working microphone should be able to handle high sound pressure levels without clipping or distorting the audio.
3. Finally, a good mic should be durable and reliable, able to withstand the rigors of a fitness classes regular use without breaking down.

Tip #1: Use a Windscreen or Cover
A windscreen or cover is a simple accessory that fits over the microphone head. It can be made from foam or another moisture-resistant material. The windscreen is designed to protect the microphone from the wind, but it also helps to repel moisture. This will prevent any sweat droplets from getting on the microphone and causing damage.

Image above: Emic Fitness Headset Microphone with Black Windscreen

Tip #2: Use a Sweatband
This option is a little more old-fashioned but equally effective. Simply secure a sweatband around your head, over the microphone head. This keeps the sweat from dripping down and damaging your microphone.

Tip #3: Heavy Sweat
If you’re really sweating profusely while teaching or training, you must use a microphone made for sweat exposure. We classify our microphones based on sweat ratings. Each microphone has a sweat rating located on our product pages. If you have questions about whether a specific microphone brand/model will work for your fitness classes reach out to our team. We are here to help. Additionally here are a few examples of of complete microphone systems rated for extra sweat:

• Hot Yoga Microphone Systems
• Cycle Class Microphone (Fitness Audio UHF Mini-TX Cyclemic System)
• Microphone systems sweat rated for 40-classes per week

Image above: Yoga Wrap/Microphone Sweat Protector

Tip #4: Keep Your Microphone Dry
After your workout, make sure you thoroughly dry off the microphone components. Here are some helpful tips:

• Use a clean cloth or towel and gently wipe the microphone down
• Make sure to let the microphone air dry (in a cool dry location) after cleaning it to prevent any moisture from getting trapped in the head
• Note, do not store in a box or sealed drawer immediately after using the microphone, this will lock in the moisture.

Tip #5: Store Your Mic Properly
When you’re done exercising, you should always store your microphone in a dry, cool place. Moisture can build up in the head of the mic and cause damage over time. Try not to leave your mic in direct sunlight or a humid environment.

As a fitness instructor or gym owner, having a microphone is key to making sure your music is heard by everyone. But sweat can be a huge problem if you’re not careful. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to protect your mic from sweat. Using a windscreen, wearing a sweatband, avoiding heavy sweating, keeping your mic dry, and storing it properly can all help prolong the life of your microphone. With these tips, you can focus on your workout knowing that your mic will stay in top condition.