The rapid growth in the COVID-19 cases has made us more aware of our health. People around the globe are taking preventive steps for avoiding themselves from getting infected from COVID-19. But those people who are excited to get back to fitness ask the question: can they exercise with a face mask on?
While social distancing and maintaining good health and hygiene is important, wearing a mask has been made compulsory in every public place. If you run outdoors, always remember the importance of social distancing. It is also essential to keep at least 10 to 12 feet of separation during a run as people are breathing heavily as they work out. Runner’s breath could contain more of the virus, wearing a face mask protect them and others from droplet spread and infectious disease.
Should You Wear a Face Mask While Running?
You should wear a mask when you are running an area where social distancing is tough to maintain. And if you are going to be passing people in and out of crowds, you will want to wear a mask. Always remember, wearing a mask is not a substitute for physical distancing.
But if you are running in your neighborhood where you rarely see another runner or a walker, likely, you don’t need to wear a face mask. Instead, be careful about crossing the street to avoid getting too close or give the other person at least six feet while passing.
How Will The Face Mask Affect Your Run?
Running or jogging with a face mask is going to decreases your airflow, making it a little harder to breathe. It won’t decrease your oxygen or retain carbon dioxide, but it will likely bore your performance or pace.
It means that you might have a harder time catching breathe if you are running with a mask. You might also feel more exhausted earlier than you normally would, even if you’re in pretty good shape, you might need to transform the intensity of your run.
It is most imperative that you should observe how you feel or if you’re having any unfamiliar symptoms.
Be On the Lookout For:
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Difficulty in breathing
Conditions to Look for in a Running Mask
Running in mask presents you with an unfriendly feeling of a damp piece of fabric rubbing beside your face. A sweaty or wet mask is going to be less effective at purifying, breathing, and more uncomfortable.
You should look for workout masks that are made with a moisture-wicking fabric but be careful that it’s not too thick or limiting. Most running specific face masks come as a customary shaped mask with strings or elastic that goes around your head.
It’s also essential to keep your running mask clean and remember when wearing a mask, wash your hands, or use hand sanitizer before removing it. A well-fitted mask will decrease the need for you to hassle around with it and touch your face.
When Wearing A Mask, You Should Remember The Following Points:
- Do not touch the mask
- Dispose of single-use masks after use and wash your reusable masks regularly
- Make sure your mask is well fitted, so exhaled air does not reach your eyes
To accomplish, it is great to humor in low-intensity workouts such as walking, brisk walking, or slow jogging as it will put less strain on your breathing. So, keep following the regular guidelines and stay safe.
