Everything You Need to Know About Wearing a Mask While Working Out

Not sure about wearing a mask while working out? Here’s everything you need to know about getting your sweat sesh in while still following mask-wearing rules.

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For all of my fellow fitness lovers, there have been quite a bit of questions I’m noticing around the internet lately about wearing masks while working out. While most gyms still aren’t open (at least I don’t think so…I’m a big advocate of working out at home) they will eventually. And even if you are just running around your neighborhood, there are some specific guidelines and considerate ways to make sure we are being safe while working out. 

So the big questions become: what do I need to know about wearing a mask while working out? And of course: Is it even safe to exercise with a face mask on?

We are going to get to the bottom of this all.

First, it’s important to note that the World Health Organization (WHO) says that this is a big no, no. They say that people should not wear masks while exercising because it may limit one’s ability to breathe easily. They have shared that:

Sweat can make the mask become wet more quickly which makes it difficult to breathe and promotes the growth of microorganisms. The important preventive measure during exercise is to maintain physical distance of at least one meter from others.

RELATED: 5 POST-WORKOUT STRETCHES TO DO EVERYDAY

Everything You Need to Know About Wearing a Mask While Working Out

The thing is this: at this point, we might all get some anxiety about the thought of not wearing a mask. After all, we’ve pretty much become accustomed to this new part of our lives since March. So there are some things we need to learn about wearing a mask while working out. 

What exactly happens to your body if you workout while wearing a mask?

Here’s the thing: your breathing gets really heavy while working out to begin with, without using a mask. So whenever you add a mask to the mix, it can compromise your breathing, if you aren’t giving yourself breaks and drop your oxygen levels. In addition, you are essentially rebreathing your exhaled gases at a higher concentration. 

How long can you safely wear a mask while working out?

It really is a personal preference. Dr. Nasseri shared with Mother.ly that, “generally speaking, every 15 minutes give yourself a break. Find an isolated spot where you can take your mask off and inhale/exhale a few good fresh breaths of air or as soon as you feel symptoms of nausea and lightheadedness.” 

The best masks to wear for working out

It’s important to choose masks specifically for working out that are made with breathable fabrics. The whole point of wearing a mask is to protect you from the respiratory particles in the air, and you should be socially distanced from people anyways, so choosing a breathable, organic fabric shouldn’t be alarming. Try these: 

How to avoid a sweaty mask

The answer to how to avoid a sweaty mask really is that there isn’t any answer, it’s just going to happen. Whenever you are planning on wearing a mask while working out, bring a few extras with you so that you can swap them out whenever one becomes too sweaty to wear. 

RELATED: 5 TIMES TO TRUST YOUR BODY AND NOT IGNORE WORKOUT PAIN

Looking for more fitness posts? You’ll love these:

• How to Curb Your Appetite Naturally
• Summer Fitness Tips For Moms
• 5 Things To Remember When You Don’t Feel Like Working Out
• How to Fit in a Daily Workout Routine
• How to Find a Sports Bra That Actually Fits
• The Best Mood Booster Playlists For Busy Moms

Do you plan on wearing a mask while working out? 

XOXOX,

Allison