We’ve all been following the COVID-19 outbreak closely for months. Over the past few weeks, things have taken a turn that has put millions of Americans at risk of contracting and spreading the disease. It’s changed daily life for people around the world and added pressure to economic, social, and political stability in unprecedented ways. 

With all of that as a backdrop, exercise may not seem like a top priority. But for so many of us, our daily run, ride, or workout is what keeps us not just physically healthy but mentally strong as well. All of us have wanted to continue to exercise and to do so as responsibly as possible. The details of being fit during a pandemic have changed with the situation. One of those changes includes a new CDC recommendation to use a homemade mask to reduce spreading the virus to others. 

The recommendation goes against prior CDC advice, which insisted that Americans didn’t need to cover their faces to protect against coronavirus. The update comes with a few stipulations. First, all N95 masks should be directed towards front line medical staff. Instead of using professional masks, the CDC asks the public to use scarves, buffs, or homemade makes anywhere in public. Additionally, it’s important to maintain the same standards of social distancing previously advised; stay six feet apart, wash your hands often, and continue to sneeze or cough into the crook of your elbow. 

It leaves for questions for athletes. Do we need to wear a mask while running or riding alone? Experts have stated that if you are truly going to be in a place with no other people, wearing a mask serves no purpose. However, even if you may encounter other cyclists or runners briefly, wearing a mask may be useful. A Buff or neck gaiter could be an easy thing to pull up over your mouth and nose when you do pass others. 

Athletes also need to understand that motion means we need to expand our sphere of influence. Because the virus has proven to hang in the air, it could trail behind us as we move along. If you’re overtaking another person, it’s worth moving to the side, slowing down, announcing yourself, and passing, all while trying to maintain a ten, twelve, or wider distance when possible. 

If you are in any way sick, you shouldn’t be exercising in public at all right now. If you’re healthy, obey your local guidelines and take the current situation of your community into consideration before you go run or ride. If you believe your route may be crowded, head a different direction. If you’re heading to the trails, avoid crowded parking lots. And if you have a mask or Buff, considering using it for all of your ride, or at least when you encounter others. 

Stay safe, and let’s be a part of the responsible, smart group keeping our neighbors healthy!