Worldwide, cover-up regulations continue to evolve. As gyms open and close or capacity restrictions decrease, individuals need to continue to be cautious and respectful of others. Fortunately, research has shown that healthy individuals are safe to wear masks while exercising, while reducing the risk of contracting or transmitting COVID-19. In general, it is recommended that individuals begin exercising at a lower intensity to accommodate wearing a mask and then return to normal intensity levels.
In one study, subjects felt less airflow while wearing a mask during exercise, but the data showed no difference in blood, tissue or muscle oxygenation levels. This could be caused by psychological factors, such as feeling claustrophobic or believing that airflow would be reduced, and therefore their rating of perceived movement (RPE) was higher.
When we breathe, speak, cough or sneeze, particles are emitted into the air. The size, speed and trajectory of these particles change during movement as you exhale and inhale harder using your lungs. Current research shows that wearing a mask not only helps protect others, but also the wearer. While a single layer of cloth is always better than none, multiple layers with higher thread counts show significantly better results, even with particles smaller than 1 micron.
Researchers recommend that people wear masks when exercising indoors, especially when they may be breathing harder due to strenuous exercise. If the mask or facepiece gets wet with respiratory droplets or sweat, it’s best to change to a dry mask or try a more sweat-resistant mask. Masks made of polyester or silk are more resistant to sweat than surgical masks, which tend to fall apart when wet or sweaty.
When to wear a mask:
Always inside, unless you are alone or at home
Outside if others are within 6-10 feet of you, but you can pull it off after the area clears
Health/safety concerns while wearing a mask:
May increase heart rate
May increase breathing rate
Possible headache
Possible dizziness/lightheadedness
Health/safety concerns when not wearing a mask:
Contracting COVID-19
Transmission of virus (with or without symptoms)
Other serious illnesses
People with chronic illnesses should exercise alone at home without a mask and under supervision if necessary. Individuals with comorbidities who participate in exercise should be aware that the mask may increase the body’s physiological response. It is best to start at a lower intensity and gradually increase the intensity, which may take several months. It is important to stay active, but it is most important to stay safe.
Conclusion
Adopting universal mask policies in fitness facilities can help avoid future lockdowns, especially when these policies are combined with other interventions such as social distance, frequent hand washing, and effective ventilation systems. Wearing masks may also allow others to feel more comfortable when returning to a public exercise facility. Of course, as Paul Digard, a virologist at the University of Edinburgh, points out, “masks work, but they are not foolproof …… so keep your distance.”
