In a time where following cautions is still mandatory and gyms are exercising precautions, running can be one of the convenient and safest exercises during the pandemic.

While coronavirus is still a big risk, experts say that exercise can be beneficial for fighting the virus.

A moderate-intensity physical activity in any form can improve your ability to fight any kind of viruses and reduce the contraction of viral infection and other respiratory illnesses including the common cold, pneumonia, and influenza. Therefore, to prevent the risk posed by COVID-19 it would be best to adopt lifestyle practices consistent with good immune health, including exercise.

Sure there are health benefits to exercising during the pandemic. But considering the current scenario runners need to be cautious. Maintaining a physical distance, and basic preventative measures like washing your hands and not touching your face are still mandatory. Runners can also prevent the spread of the virus by wearing a mask while running outside.

A few things to be considered before you go out for a run.

Is it safe to run outside?

Yes—as long as you’re alone. The best plan for running right now is to go out for a solo run and enjoy the outdoors and avoid crowded places. And, time your run for when you know the trails will be less crowded.

A 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity can help boost your immune system and keep viruses at bay. Ensure what’s going on in your area and if there are any restrictions or mandatory self-quarantines. Avoid going out if you’re sick or at-risk of spreading the virus. The bigger concern is spreading the virus to those who are at high risks, such as the elderly or people with weak immune systems.

And if you are in a self-quarantine facility, doing bodyweight exercises or running on an at-home treadmill are great ways to keep your immunity boosted. Unless you’re sick.

Should I wear a mask when I go out for runs?

Wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain to help reduce the spread of the virus from spreading between people interacting nearby

The situation we are in is still serious and we all need to be responsible for the consequences of our actions on the community around us.

Some extra precautions that you can take responsibility for are to not wear damp or wet masks when you go out for runs. Cloth face coverings are not necessary when you’re out for a solo run and you know if you will be in an isolated place where you won’t encounter anyone.

Face masks help stop the spread from the ill and prevent inhalation in the healthy. They are only really effective if you use them properly. And most people are not trained to use masks properly. Even taking a mask on and off can increase the risk of contracting the virus. The purpose of the mask is not to protect you, but to protect other people from you. If you can follow this, going out solo and avoiding other people altogether is the best thing you can do right now.

Lastly,

You need not quit running or exercising altogether despite the pandemic. Do you know there is a very strong connection between regular exercise and a strong immune system? The long-term immune system benefits of running far outweigh any short-term concerns.

So, stay healthy and keep running!