‘Harmful rather than protective’
Good question! In this section PlusOnline searches for answers to pressing questions. This time: is it better to exercise with a mouth cap on, or not?
You see it more and more around you: people with mouth caps in all shapes and sizes. Now that the coronavirus seems to be staying with us longer, many amateur and top athletes suddenly use them during sports. But is that wise?
According to the World Health Organization, the answer is no. It is better not to exercise with a mask on, because it hinders breathing and the mask can get wet from sweat. A wet mouth mask makes it even harder to breathe and bacteria can grow faster. The organization therefore recommends keeping sufficient distance from others as an important preventive measure.
Disadvantages of wearing a mouth cap while exercising
However, no scientific research has yet been conducted into wearing fabrics or surgical mouth masks during sports. Experts from the British Journal of Sports Medicine have some cons given on the basis of their common sense and existing knowledge. For example, they write that the existing mouth caps are not designed for sports. They don’t connect well, so you can still infect others. If the mask fits properly, you can become dizzy and short of breath. Sports is then less pleasant and your performance may decrease.
‘Mangerous rather than protective’
In Germany, doctors even point out that face masks are more harmful than protective during intensive sports, reports Fidelity. Hypercapnia can occur: if carbon dioxide (CO2) is not properly exhaled due to the increased air resistance in the mask, it can accumulate in the blood and lower the pH value. This acidification can cause headaches, dizziness or reduced consciousness.
Inge van Schouwenburg of the Knowledge Center Sport & Exercise tells Trouw: “If you want to use them, I say: do it well. Make sure they fit well around the mouth and nose, throw them away or wash them after use, wash hands well and certainly do not leave them lying around. It is important that you also stick to the guidelines of the RIVM when exercising and observe the one and a half meters.
Do you also have a good question? Send us an email.
