by Sean St. Onge
Got it, I need a mask. Some just…
Won’t cut it.
What I need is more like….
Okay, without stating the obvious, in this time we need/should/have to be protecting ourselves and others in this time of Covid. You don’t need me on a soap box detailing and finger wagging my way of the merits of masks while in public.
One thing I can tell you is that, per state law, in order to play, we pay by donning the mask.
Is it doable?
Yes.
Is it optimal?
Probably not.
I mean, if you are used to wearing a mask all day then sure, you may have been born into it.
My fellow coach, Miguel Argoncillo, recently put this to the test, along with some science behind the action of how it is actually doable and possible for you to improve overall oxygen intake when you are working hard. You can see his findings at the link below:
https://www.facebook.com/8228801/posts/10108886581541233/?d=n
If you are in the camp that is not a fan of wearing a mask, and you have done it but it still feels weird or you don’t feel comfortable, then maybe ask yourselves …
NO! Just kidding…you need to wear if you are going to play. Just ask yourselves, “Are there other options in mask types?” Maybe changing and trying a few different variations will be helpful.
I, myself, have tried at least 6 different types to cover my Picasso of a mug.
Optimally, you want to be having something in comfort but that does the job. Check the fabric levels to be sure, hold it up to a light, if you can see through it, you can double up the material for better protection.
KimKaps has an agreeable variation that hosts two different ties so, if you wish, you can keep either the higher tie above the ears or the lower tie below the chin a bit more loose for airflow but maintaining protection.
https://kimkaps.com/product-category/kimkap-masks/
An avid climber, Colin utilizes a Buff. These masks are usually made from a recycled product and some have UPF 50 fabric which is helpful for protection of UV rays. Very adjustable and breathable, as the polyester fabric is thin.
https://www.rei.com/b/buff
(We also sell a less expensive variation of these at 212…just saying.)
Marine Layer makes a sport-style mask equipped with adjustable settings on the ears.
https://www.marinelayer.com/products/mlmaskpusport
Sadly we, and I say we as a human race, not just a country and or culture, have been in need not just for the past few months, but the last some 20 years for mask wearing. Just one example is the 2002 Sars epidemic spawning the generalized need for keeping masks around to be a piece of regular daily clothing in the Eastern world. This isn’t anyone’s optimal attire, but we roll with it. And if you know me, I am not a big proponent of just following, but I will on this one.
All in all, I provide you with no solace or endgame. Simply a few different experiences and options to try before condemning the whole process. Can you train with a mask on? Yes. Did Batman like doing it? No, so pay the toll, get on the ride, or train outdoors.
AGAIN…these are jokes. Sort of, because we all have to do what we need to in this time and what I do provide you with is hope, suggestions of options available, and proof that we can get by when training. It’s not the best conditions, but it isn’t the worst. Let me leave you with this…if you are using “not wearing a mask” as your sole reason to NOT exercise when you know it is important to you, your well-being, and mental and personal health, you are your only issue then. Can you do virtual training at home? Yup. Can you exercise alone? Sure can. Is it the same as it used to be? NOPE, nothing in our lifetimes will be, so roll on.
Soap Box...out.