10/06/2020
Should we wear a mask while working out outdoor during the pandemic ?
We have been asked this question quite often in the last few days .
We are Physical Therapists and with all the understanding we have of the topic and in view of the current situation we would like to explain in simple words.
To perform low, moderate or high intensity of exercises we require energy .
When the energy is derived from oxygen it is know as aerobic respiration and when not from oxygen it is known as anaerobic respiration.
In case of low intensity exercises it is absolutely fine to wear a breathable mask and carry out the workout .
However in case of moderate to high intensity exercises or while running
There is an increase in the heart rate and demand for oxygen increases. In this aerobic respiration there is production of energy with the help of oxygen and release of CO2 and water .
In case of a non breathable mask or someone who is new to exercising or has not learnt to work in the anaerobic phase, it will be difficult working out with the decreased supply of oxygen.Sustaining their workout will become strenuous and may lead to giddiness, headaches and even blackout.
So it is advisable to take it really slow for such people.
Now as you continue to perform the moderate to high intensity exercises like running outdoors, due to the lack of oxygen the body shifts to the anaerobic phase of respiration.
In this case the muscles begin to breakdown the sugar but instead if producing CO2 and water they produce excess amounts of lactate.
And it is really extremely difficult to break the lactate into a source of energy. Hence causing the burning feeling in the muscles.
This will cause early fatigue,pace of exercise will decrease, you will loose energy faster and quality of exercise will become poor along with other issues.
Hence we strictly advice wearing breathable (maximum 2 layered) mask to perform moderate to high intensity exercises for healthy individuals but you must maintain healthy distance from other people . However best option right now is to workout at home .
Also for individuals with pre-existing cardio respiratory issues do not wear a mask or ; workout at home โ
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