We are still in this guys. Wearing a face mask for running is still a thing and in my area (NYC) it is only safe and respectful to others to cover your mouth and nose while you’re running near others. Wearing a mask for running is tough. You may feel some resistance to breathing, depending on the thickness of the mask material.
When your nose and mouth are fully covered there may be some limitation to the intake of air. This can cause discomfort and attenuate your running performance. So which are the best masks for running?
Running with a mask and why you should do it
If you have to wear a mask while you’re exercising outdoors depends on your state. The CDC guidelines recommend the use of cloth face coverings “in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies,”. It is important to familiarize yourself with local guidelines. It’s been such a long time for me already of wearing a mask for running that I’m really used to it.
While we all are in the same boat, here’s my insight on running with a mask and which running masks are actually okay to run with. And remember before you stop reading, wearing a mask, at the very least, a buff or bandanna, will protect people in your community. It’s you showing respect. It’s showing that you care. Simple as that.
Tips for running with a mask
A few things to consider while running outside (hopefully with a mask) are for instance to give people space. If there is room, move to the side, cross the street or give them a heads up that you’re coming. I had many awkward moments, where I ran into pedestrians who didn’t see or hear me coming. Some turned away, some reacted really mean. So to avoid this, even when running with a mask, just be even more mindful of your community.
If you can’t run with a mask for the entire time, that is okay. For me personally, I don’t necessarily wear the mask for running for the entire run either. I always run during off-peak hours anyways to avoid the crowds outside with minimal interaction, but when I see someone approaching, or if I am passing someone, I will pull the buff up to cover my nose and mouth.
Areas near the Hudson River on the West Side Highway here in NYC are always packed. In an area like that, it’s a matter of kindness to others to wear some sort of protection on your face. Also, even if you wear a mask while running, it’s still important to avoid people and keep your distance.
If our paces become slower while running with a mask remember that you have to work harder to get the same amount of air into your lungs. It is all normal. If you need to stop now that is okay as well. If you think about it literally anything that makes your workout more challenging for you will make you stronger long term.
The best masks for running in 2021
While there are many different running masks out there by now, these are the ones that I can highly recommend. I have both, a regular mask made of cotton and a buff. I see lots of runners running with a bandana as well. A bandana allows you to breathe a bit better because you’ll have more air coming in around your neck.
Will wearing a mask for running will ever get easier?
One of my friends who has been running with her mask since March of last year. She is running absolutely fine with it. One piece of advice she gave was to try nasal breathing. If you exhale through your nose you actually produce fewer water droplets that you do through mouth breathing. This takes some training if you’re not used to it but it is really worth the practice and your body will ultimately adapt to it. Buying a great mask for running definitely helps too.
Running at a slower pace that is less challenging will make running with a mask also easier for you. The less you have to breathe through your mouth, the better.
Another thing to keep in mind is also the fact that one day when you will take the mask off while running, your lungs will have the ability to intake and absorb more oxygen. This will most likely result in a performance increase. Right now our body adapts to the tougher condition while running with a mask on and will likely perform better once it returns to the easier condition.
Final thoughts on the best running mask
Who would have thought we would ever have to run with a mask? If you’re feeling down about wearing a face covering during your runs, remember that you are not only protecting others but also it will pay off down the line.
Since all races and events are canceled now is not the time to run your fastest anyways. Focus on working on your running routine and base endurance instead. Work on your mental health while keeping up with your running but at the same time be more forgiving with yourself and understand that it won’t be like this forever.
Last Updated on 11. September 2023 by Sabrina Wieser
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