What you need to know about face masks
Which is the best mask for exercising? We would love to hear what you have to say......
WITH President Cyril Ramaphosa announcing the go-ahead for exercise under certain restrictions, athletes have been hitting the roads in numbers to complete their daily routes.
One of the norms is to wear a face mask while running or walking. But, which mask is the best to wear for athletes in terms of protection and comfort?
The N95 face mask has proved to be the best in terms of it’s durability and protection against the virus, bacteria, dust and pollen.
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Surgical and FFP1 masks have also scored high in these areas, which answer the question of protection.
All the above-mentioned masks scored between 80-100% in these areas.
But when running, one perspires and one’s breathing accelerates, causing the athlete to look more at weight and comfort.
The activate carbon and cloth masks weigh less than the others, allow for ‘easier’ breathing and absorb sweat, which ticks more boxes for exercising.
But these two masks scored between 5-50% in terms of protection against the virus, bacteria, dust and pollen, posing the question about safety.
With exercising only taking place within a 5km radius from one’s house and from 6am-9am, maybe comfort and practicality are more beneficial for those running alone.
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