Return to training in the COVID-19 era: The physiological effects of face masks during exercise.
Scand J Med Sci Sports
; 31(1): 70-75, 2021 Jan.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-32969531
ABSTRACT
COVID-19 outbreak has a profound impact on almost every aspect of life. Universal masking is recommended as a means of source control. Routinely exercising in a safe environment is an important strategy for healthy living during this crisis. As sports clubs and public spaces may serve a source of viral transmission, masking may become an integral part of physical activity. This study aimed to assess the physiological effects of wearing surgical masks and N95 respirators during short-term strenuous workout. This was a multiple cross-over trial of healthy volunteers. Using a standard cycle ergometry ramp protocol, each subject performed a maximal exercise test without a mask, with a surgical mask, and with an N95 respirator. Physiological parameters and time to exhaustion were compared. Each subject served his own control. Sixteen male volunteers (mean age and BMI of 34 ± 4 years and 28.72 ± 3.78 kg/m2 , respectively) completed the protocol. Heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and time to exhaustion did not differ significantly. Exercising with N95 mask was associated with a significant increase in end-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2 ) levels. The differences were more prominent as the load increased, reaching 8 mm Hg at exhaustion (none vs N95, P = .001). In conclusion, in healthy subjects, short-term moderate-strenuous aerobic physical activity with a mask is feasible, safe, and associated with only minor changes in physiological parameters, particularly a mild increase in EtCO2 . Subjects suffering from lung diseases should have a cautious evaluation before attempting physical activity with any mask.
Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Exercício Físico
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Pandemias
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Respiradores N95
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COVID-19
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Máscaras
Tipo de estudo:
Clinical_trials
Limite:
Adult
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Humans
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Male
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2021
Tipo de documento:
Article