Exercising with a mask

After over a year of restrictions and lockdowns, many of us are used to grabbing a mask along with our keys and phones as we head out of the door. Wearing a mask has become second nature but it can be difficult to adjust to using masks when you’re exercising. Many people might have concerns about the safety of wearing a mask when they run, work out in the gym or play sports and some masks are better suited to physical activity than others. 

Leading an active lifestyle is hugely beneficial for improving mental and physical health and lowering the risk of Covid-19 complications. If you’re worried about using a mask while exercising, research studies should provide peace of mind. Studies show that wearing a mask while playing sports and working out is safe. Researchers have found that using a mask does not have a negative impact on heart rate, respiration or oxygen levels (source). Studies also suggest that using masks does not hinder performance.

The range of masks has grown rapidly in the last 12 months and there is now an incredibly diverse selection to choose from. You can exercise safely in any type of approved face mask but some might be more comfortable than others and there are advanced options that provide additional benefits and features. 

Cloth, polyester and non-woven masks are ideal for short exercise sessions and are preferable to surgical masks, which can break down due to excess moisture and sweat. The CDC recommends buying masks with at least two layers and avoiding masks with valves. It’s also an excellent idea to carry a spare with you. Once you’ve finished exercising, you can then change your mask to travel home or go back to the office. 

If you are a very active individual and your performance really matters, you might be interested in masks from AirPop. Since 2015, AirPop has designed masks for performance at high intensity, comfort and durability, whilst providing unrivalled filtration with an adaptive fit and high breathability.

Originally designed for athletes and runners in the world’s most polluted cities, the AirPop Light SE mask is one of the best-selling masks on the market at the moment and their innovative use of materials and ergonomic design is a wearing experience in a class of its own. There are other options out there but it’s best to check that the mask meets some performance standards for particle filtration and breathability or risk being disappointed and unprotected. 

AirPop filtration efficiency is over 99.3% and it provides two-way protection, benefiting the user and others they interact with. The brand has won a host of awards for its innovative masks, including an International Design Excellence Award and a Reddot award. 

AirPop masks have been spotted on the French President and the Arrow McLaren racing team and they feature in Amanda Kloots’ workouts. Kloots is a well-known fitness instructor, TV presenter and influencer. AirPop masks are also used by athletes from the Dallas Mavericks, including Luka Doncic and Jalen Brunson.