An active lifestyle has countless benefits, including but not limited to a reduced risk of chronic health conditions, better mental and emotional health and improved sleep.[1] If physical activity is a big part of your life, and you’re about to get your first pair of hearing aids, you need to take your lifestyle into account when choosing your devices.
Let’s look at a few factors that will come into play.
Style
A hearing aid style is the basic shape of the device. Some common styles include:
- Behind-the-ear (BTE)
- Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC)
- In-the-ear (ITE)
- In-the-canal (ITC)
- Completely-in-the-canal (CIC)
Someone with an active lifestyle should look for hearing aids that fit securely in the ears or accommodate tethers or clips (which attach the hearing aids to your shirt). Custom-fitted devices in any style should stay in your ear during physical activities, but only BTE and RIC devices are large enough to use hearing aid tethers or clips.
Moisture Durability
Modern hearing aids have impressive protection against moisture damage. Many devices boast an IP68 rating, meaning they’re protected against immersion in water. A high waterproof rating is crucial for people who sweat a lot, like those in the Prescott heat, or who prefer water sports. Remember that the high waterproof rating is designed to protect your devices in case they get wet; you still shouldn’t wear them while you swim or shower.
Battery Type and Life
Your hearing aids will either have disposable or rechargeable batteries. If you’re a thru-hiker who won’t have easy access to electricity, models with disposable batteries might be the better choice. If, instead, you like to exercise and then sleep in the comfort of your home, you might prefer an all-day rechargeable option.
Smart Features
Newer hearing aids have helpful features that can make your workout even better. Some options include wind noise reduction, adaptive sound processing, tinnitus management and Bluetooth®.
We’ll walk you through your hearing aid options and help you find the perfect devices to fit your active lifestyle. Call Prescott Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy to schedule your hearing aid consultation or fitting appointment today.
[1] National Institute on Aging. (2025). Health benefits of exercise and physical activity. National Institute on Aging. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/exercise-and-physical-activity/health-benefits-exercise-and-physical-activity