Face masks - Should you wear it while exercising?

New Delhi, 4-Nov-2020

The debate about wearing masks ignited worldwide with the growth in COVID-19 cases. Two groups of people came into being. One group rose in support of wearing masks and the other group, called the anti-maskers rose against the wearing of masks. So far, there has not been a study that debunks the usefulness of the masks. However, the debate about wearing masks while carrying out activities such as exercising, yoga, or walking is still under construction. The World Health Organization openly advised against the wearing of masks during exercising as it can cause breathing problems and encourage the growth of microorganisms. It instead urged people to follow social distancing. There have not been studies that show any significant proof of prevention against the spread of the virus in form of droplets if masks are worn while exercising. The experts advising against wearing masks during exercising back their claims up as masks can cause an obstruction in breathing, which in turn can result in dizziness and dehydration. However, some experts have issued statements recommending wearing masks while exercising as long as a few precautions are applied. According to Dr Balram Bahrgava, the Director-General at ICMR, one is advised to wear masks while exercising as there is no adverse effect on the blood oxygen levels in the body during the same. "Regarding masks, there is more and more data emerging about masks being protective and preventive and as good as a vaccine. Data also show that masks should be worn during exercise as well. It does not alter blood oxygen levels, so it should be worn while exercising or walking," he said during his weekly COVID briefing on Tuesday.

What you need to be careful about while exercising in a mask - Here are a few precautionary measures that you can take to avoid any discomfort while exercising in a mask:

1. The intensity of exercise: The type of exercise to be undertaken while wearing a mask must range from light to moderate intensity. This can include exercises such as brisk walking, yoga or slow cycling. This is to make sure that the temperature of the body stays regulated and it gets enough space to breathe.
2. The material of mask: The mask to be worn while exercising must not be thick and should be made from a material like polyester that can dry quickly. This is to prevent the inside of the mask from getting humid which can cause difficulty in breathing.
3. Looking out for signs: One must be mindful about the exertion they are putting on their bodies while exercising. They should be attentive to signs such as dizziness, light-headedness, fatigue and hyperventilation to keep them from overexerting their bodies.
4. Know your body: People who suffer from chronic diseases such as bronchitis, asthma, or any other cardiovascular or lung diseases must refrain from wearing a mask during exercising as it can result in aggravation of the symptoms of their disease.