Airflow-Restricting Mask Reduces Acute Performance in Resistance Exercise

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science

Background:

• Resistance training is a cornerstone of physical fitness.
• Investigating the impact of external devices on training adaptations is crucial.
• Airflow-restricting masks are increasingly used, but their physiological effects require clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of resistance training with and without an airflow-restricting mask.
• To analyze differences in repetitions to failure, blood lactate, and perceived exertion.

Main Methods:

• Eight participants completed a randomized, counterbalanced crossover study.
• Training involved five sets of chest presses and squats at 75% 1RM to failure with 60s rest.
• Measurements included total repetitions, blood lactate, and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE).

Main Results:

• Fewer total repetitions were completed when using the airflow-restricting mask.
• Blood lactate concentrations and RPE were significantly higher in the mask group for both exercises.
• These effects were observed in both chest presses and parallel squats.

Conclusions:

• Airflow-restricting masks increase perceived exertion and decrease muscular performance during resistance training.
• The mask may influence the central nervous system, leading to earlier exercise cessation.
• This suggests a potential protective mechanism against excessive physiological stress.