This summer the EAST COAST was impacted for the first time in a while by the Canadian WildFires.
Running in poor air quality, especially during wildfires or other air pollution events, can indeed be hazardous to your health.
Other than taking 6AMRun.com Amino ACIDS, Greens, and Hydration items here are the Reasons to Avoid Running Outside during Poor Air Quality Alerts, AND Precautions you should take:
Inhaling Harmful Particles: Poor air quality due to wildfires or pollution often contains fine particulate matter, which can be harmful when inhaled. These particles can irritate your respiratory tract, leading to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, they can enter the bloodstream and affect various organs.
Reduced Oxygen Intake: Smoke and pollutants in the air can displace oxygen, making it harder for your lungs to extract enough oxygen to support physical activity. This can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and even fainting.
Exacerbation of Health Issues: People with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or cardiovascular diseases are at greater risk when exposed to poor air quality. Physical activity in such conditions can exacerbate their symptoms and lead to health complications.
Heat and Dehydration: Wildfires can increase ambient temperatures. Coupled with poor air quality, this can lead to overheating during exercise. Additionally, you might not realize how much you're sweating due to the high humidity, leading to dehydration.
Given these potential risks, it's advisable to take the following precautions:
Stay Informed: Monitor air quality reports in your area. Websites or apps from environmental agencies provide real-time information about air quality levels. Avoid outdoor activities when air quality is poor.
Limit Outdoor Exercise: If air quality is compromised, it's best to limit or avoid outdoor exercise, particularly strenuous activities like running. Opt for indoor workouts instead.
Modify Timing: If you must exercise outdoors, consider doing so during times when air quality is relatively better. Typically, air quality is better in the morning when pollutants have not accumulated as much.
Reduce Intensity: If you choose to exercise outside, reduce the intensity and duration of your workout to decrease the amount of air you're breathing in.
Protective Gear: If you decide to exercise outdoors, consider wearing a mask designed to filter out fine particles. However, ensure that the mask fits well and doesn't make breathing even more difficult.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout to avoid dehydration.
Listen to Your Body: Pay close attention to how your body is responding during exercise. If you experience difficulty breathing, dizziness, chest discomfort, or any other unusual symptoms, stop exercising and seek medical attention if necessary.
Ultimately, your health and safety should be a top priority. If air quality is compromised due to wildfires or pollution, it's generally recommended to avoid outdoor exercise until conditions improve.