need the facemask to be of surgical grade
to protect us from COVID-19 in most social
interactions, especially when some sort of
physical distancing is still observed.
Face covering
This is a physical barrier that we can wear
over our nose and mouth to shield us from
direct exposure to droplets. You can DIY this
to make it as comfortable as possible, and it
can also be washed and reused.
Face coverings of all types also stop us
from directly touching our mouth and nose
area, something we need to get used to.
Making your mask
wearing effective
While facemasks are an important personal
protection barrier, it is important to note that
you have a higher risk of getting COVID if you
wear a mask but don't use it appropriately
– especially because when people wear a
mask, they tend not to observe strict physical
distancing. This behaviour is evident in a
new study from behavioural scientists at the
UK’s University of Warwick, which found
that, rather than exercising extra caution,
people felt more comfortable sitting or
standing closer to others while wearing a
mask.
Regardless of what type of mask you
are wearing, if mishandled, you can spread
the virus from your mask to yourself. It is
important, therefore, to follow some tips
that will help you to use masks in a way that
maximises safety for you and others.
Be careful how you handle your mask
If you go to your gym and opt wear a surgical
facemask, dispose of it once you leave the
premises. Do not take the mask into your
car, do not put it back into your handbag
or pocket and do not use your phone while
wearing a mask (where your phone touches
the mask or when you lower your mask to
use your phone FACE ID). Place the mask in
a rubbish bin and then sanitise your hands
immediately. Alternatively, if you wear a
reusable face covering ensure you have a
resealable carrier for it and follow cleaning
directions after every use.
The mask acts as a barrier and catches
germs and viruses. If you touch the mask
with your hands after wearing it, you are
infecting your hands.
Use a mask that suits your face and
skin type
When you do go out and need to wear a
mask, ensure the mask does not itch or
irritate you. You will only end up playing
and fidgeting with it, increasing the risk of
catching the virus from your mask.
Take care when disposing of a used mask
Carry a good supply of masks around with
you in a ziplock bag in your handbag or
pocket. Carry another ziplock bag clearly
marked 'USED' to safely house the mask
that you have worn before you wash it or
dispose of it.
Other considerations
In addition to wearing a mask or face
covering, and following the steps to ensure
you do so safely, there are some other
simple behaviours to support a healthy gym
and home life:
Don't leave home unless you
absolutely need to
The reality is that the best way to avoid COVID
is to not leave your home unless you absolutely
need to. If you or your client is at high risk,
conduct your sessions over-the-phone or on
an online video streaming platform.
Set up your home to be COVID safe
Placing hand sanitiser at the front door is a
good idea, because not all of us remember
to wash our hands as soon as we get home
from the gym. If possible, it is a good idea to
invest in a coat rack for you foyer, on which
to hang your gym bag and jacket rather
than putting them on your bed or in your
wardrobe with your clean clothes.
Boost your immune system
Viruses spread in the body by attaching
to your cells and infecting them. There is
a significant link between the behaviour of
antioxidants and their impact on cellular
health. In order to keep your immune system
strong and boosted, ensure your active
lifestyle is supported by good nutrition,
which may also include antioxidant-rich
supplements such as activated phenolics.
Strong and healthy cells are less susceptible
to viruses.
Wearing a mask is our way to do our part
in this fight against COVID. It is a new habit
that we have to learn to get used to, but it is
a minimal invasion of our daily life compared
to the significant benefits of slowing the
spread of the virus.
MORE
Dr Vincent Cadrawinata, PhD
Vincent is a researcher,
inventor and entrepreneur in
the field of food, health and
nutrition. Recognised by the
Australian government as an
Individual with a Distinguished
Talent in Research and
Academia, he founded
Renovatio Bioscience using
patented technology developed
during his PhD research.
The Australian Commission on Safety
and Quality in Healthcare has simple,
illustrated information on the correct
way to put on facemasks. Click here
to see more.
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