Physiological Changes During Aerobic Exercise with Cloth Mask

With growing use of reusable face masks, their impact on exercise performance raises concerns for athletes. This study investigates the effect of wearing a Reusable Cloth Mask (RCM) on Ventilatory Breakpoint (Vpt), Heart Rate (HR), Oxygen Uptake (VO2), and Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) during aerobic exercise to determine an appropriate exercise intensity level. A randomised crossover counterbalanced experimental design was conducted with healthy adult females. Participants completed a discontinuous graded submaximal treadmill test until volitional exhaustion with alternate 4-min work and rest stages. Respiratory variables were measured using a metabolic cart, HR was measured by a HR monitor, while participants rated perceived exertion. Data was analysed using a 2-way ANOVA test. Significant increases in HR (RCM: 166.3 ± 18.9 beats·min−1, non-RCM: 154.2 ± 15.8 beats·min−1, p = 0.02) and RPE (RCM: 7.5 ± 1.9, non-RCM: 5.5 ± 1.5, p = 0.00) at Vpt were observed. No significant difference was observed in VO2 at Vpt (RCM: 1.52 ± 0.28 L·min−1, non-RCM: 1.46 ± 0.22 L·min−1, p = 0.50). Significant increases in RMD were observed for overall discomfort (RCM: 7.30 ± 2.26, non-RCM: 4.30 ± 2.31, p = 0.00) and hot/stuffiness (RCM: 6.70 ± 2.45, non-RCM: 3.90 ± 2.56, p = 0.00). RCMs significantly increase in HR, higher perceived exertion and discomfort to users but do not greatly impede breathing. Users are advised to wear RCM for exercise only when needed, with consideration of individual comfort. Future studies should evaluate methods to minimise RCM discomfort and explore their potential in enhancing aerobic training.