Many gyms and studios across the country (including mine) require working out in a mask. While I know this isn’t an ideal situation, I so appreciate our members’ willingness at OTF Boulder to give it a go!
I’ve been coaching in a mask since we reopened, and I was working out in a mask for the first time a couple of days ago. If you’re faced with the decision of going back to the gym and working out in a mask or not being able to go back to the gym at all, there are a few things I want you to keep in mind.
Your Body Will Adapt
Doing anything for the first time is tough, but your body is super adaptable. It adapted to lifting weights and running treadmill inclines. It will adapt to wearing a mask, too.
Yes, it will feel harder to breathe the first few times. Have patience with yourself and trust that your body will get used to it.
Slow It Down At First
Working hard is working hard. Whether your heart rate is going up because you’re running your fastest or because your body has to work harder to breathe through the mask, your heart rate is still going up.
The first few times working out with a mask, you might need to lower your intensity a bit. You won’t lift as heavy or run as fast. That’s okay. You’re still working hard and giving your body a chance to adjust to the change. No, it’s not a set-back. Have patience with yourself.
Try Different Masks
That homemade cloth mask you go shopping in might not work as well in the gym. Try different masks before you swear off the experience.
My studio shared this list of recommended masks. I’ve been told many of them are on back order. I actually used a disposable mask for my first masked workout experience, and I didn’t mind it at all. I need to find a good reusable one, though, as I don’t feel great about creating the extra trash after every workout.
No Judgment
Some people have medical issues that prevent them from wearing a mask. Your studio may issue an exception, or they may choose not to join the classes after all.
We’re all doing the best we can in a super weird time. Let’s continue to give each other the grace we need as we work through it.
But…barring that medical condition or circumstances that prevent you wearing a mask, remember:
Refusing to Try It Only Hurts You—and the Gym You Love
You might try it a few times and decide that working out in a mask is really not for you, but you owe yourself the chance to experience it. I had big-time doubts, but honestly, it wasn’t that bad. I know it sounds terrible, but just try it and give yourself all the information about it before you make a decision.
Because here’s the thing. If you don’t try it and refuse the idea of working out in a mask, it’s your own health and fitness that suffer. Now, if you’re making the choice to exercise mask-free at home, that’s great—as long as you’re sticking to your program and seeing results. But if you’re someone who needs that extra motivation and push that comes from being in the gym or a group class, you might not want to sacrifice that without at least trying the mask.
Some people aren’t super attached to a gym or studio. If you attend a small studio with a close-knit community and want it to be there for you when this is over, they need you now.
I respect everyone’s decision about whether or not to return for safety reasons. Still, if the mask wearing is the only reason you’re on the fence, I encourage you to get back in there and try it.