Match your mask to your workout
As we step into a new “normal” of wearing a face covering while working out indoors, we ask ourselves: which is the best one?
By Ann Stehr
I have Googled and researched for countless hours, ordered many, and made my own mother make several cloth masks. Here are my findings based on my personal opinion and talks with fellow instructors and Midtown members.
My new favorite for cardio and heavy breathing is the Ariat mask. It has a wire that goes down the middle to keep the mask from clinging to my mouth when I am huffing and puffing. It is comfortable on my ears but tends to slide down my nose towards the end of an hour-long class. I wear this mask for tennis, 312, anything super sweaty, and anywhere I move a lot because it is light weight.
The made by mom masks are cloth, two ply, and a filter. They’re not as good for workouts, but perfect for grocery store runs and walking through a restaurant to your table. They are cute, durable, and what’s better than something made by your mom?
I ordered two other brand masks: Reebok and Athleta, but due to slow shipping (understandable) they have not yet arrived. Find me in the club and ask how they are.
Now is a great time to try out different masks as the weather begins to feel a little cooler and we can gear up for bringing classes indoors. They are annoying and uncomfortable, but the more you wear them for working out the better and easier it gets. We adapt and change together to be stronger for the next day.
*I am not a medical professional and have not tested any of the masks against disease and/or infection. Do your own research to safeguard yourself and the people around you. None of the masks suggested have sponsored me or given me royalties to endorse.