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The use of facial masks they are a crucial weapon in the fight against COVID-19but there have been some apparently conflicting advice from health authorities about using them while exercising.
The World Health Organization has said that wearing a mask while exercising is not a good idea because it can make breathing difficult (largely due to accumulated sweat), but the recommendation of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is everyone to wear face masks in public as a protective measure, and that presumably includes public spaces where you’d be close to others, like a gym.
So if you are concerned about protecting yourself and others from possible infection while exercising, where does this leave you? Should you mask yourself, and if so, what is the best face mask for exercise?
Read more: 7 myths about face mask debunked: what you need to know about coatings, COVID-19 and your health
Dr. Sandra Kesh, expert in infectious diseases. he told CNET You should avoid going to group workouts or exercise classes for now. And keep in mind that even if you’re socially estranged in a gym, having lots of people indoors and lots of heavy breathing (without a mask) creates an environment where the virus could spread more easily.
For your safety and the safety of others, you should not exercise without a mask inside other people you do not know. If you really can’t stand wearing a mask, exercise outside.
For those who are really eager to go back to their gyms and fitness studios, where masks may or may not be required, here are some masks that are breathable, moisture-wicking, and designed for exercise.
Under the armor
Under Armor designed the UA Sportsmask with athletes in mind, but any avid athlete will find the mask useful if they want to upgrade from a standard cloth face mask. The mask is made with three different layers designed to allow air flow while protecting it.
One layer of the mask has an antimicrobial treatment called “PROTX2,” which according to the brand, “has been shown in laboratory tests to destroy the coronavirus, and is being reviewed by the US Environmental Protection Agency to confirm the efficacy of the substance as applied to the UA Sportsmask. ”
The hole
The Well Movement mask is 50% cotton, so it may not resist during severe sweat sessions, but for most activities it will work better than a 100% cotton mask as it is also made of polyester and spandex friendly with the sweat. The mask contains antimicrobial properties to help prevent the growth of bacteria.
The ear muffs are adjustable, which is a great advantage for fit and comfort. The fabric also provides some protection from UV rays, which is great if you spend a lot of time walking or exercising outside, but don’t forget to wear sunscreen too.
Carbon38
Carbon38 The Mask Kit comes with two masks, plus a laundry bag to wash. The masks are made with a blend of polyester and cotton, so they dry quickly and help keep you cool. The ear muffs are adjustable for a perfect fit, and the masks come in two sizes.
Carbon38 says the masks are made with a multi-layer filtration system to help protect it, plus the fabric has antibacterial properties.
Adidas
Adidas masks are machine washable and made from a soft, breathable material that is a blend of recycled polyester and elastane. They come in two different sizes for the best fit, and Adidas provides guidelines on how to measure your face to make sure you’re getting the right size.
Onzie
Exercising with yoga clothes is much more comfortable than with normal clothes, so why not take the same approach for your mask? Yoga and sportswear brand Onzie uses recycled yoga fabrics to create face masks that stretch and dry quickly, just like your favorite leggings.
Just a word of warning: Because the brand is reusing the fabric of yoga clothing, it can’t pick specific colors and patterns, but it’s definitely worth it for a more sustainable mask option.
Koral
Koral uses the same performance antimicrobial fabric to make his face masks as his active wear, which means they are stretchy and quick-drying. It also provides UV protection. After using this mask on a jog or walk, you can throw it in the wash as the mask is easy to machine wash.
What to look for in exercise masks
Cloth
Cloth is one of the most important factors when it comes to exercising with a mask. For everyday activities, cloth masks are fine. But with exercise, cotton moistens very quickly, which can make breathing difficult and promote bacterial growth. For this reason, masks made from fabrics that are similar to those used in sportswear (such as spandex or polyester) are your best option. But still, you want the mask to be breathable and comfortable as you move.
Adjustment
There is nothing worse than having a face mask fall off or falling off while moving. First, it is just annoying. Second, you will interrupt your training if you have to stop to fix it, and you will likely have to touch your face, which you should avoid to stay safe.
Look for a face mask that is adjustable or comes in different sizes so that you can find the best option for you. Elastic or stretchy ear muffs tend to fit snugly and don’t slide as much as masks that tie around the head.
Antimicrobial characteristics
Since sweat and moisture can be a breeding ground for bacteria, masks that have some kind of filter or antimicrobial coating are ideal (many of the masks below have these characteristics). While these may not kill or destroy a virus particle, it doesn’t hurt to have these additional barriers in place.
Also, understand that no mask on this list can offer a 100% guarantee that it will protect you from viruses, no matter how many stylish features they have. But wearing a mask is simply another tool that can act as an additional barrier to help stop the spread and help protect you and others.
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The information in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or health advice. Always consult a doctor or other qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health goals.
