Effects of wearing a KF94 face mask on performance, perceptual, and physiological responses during a resistance exercise

Abstract Wearing a face mask in indoor public places including fitness centers is an effective strategy to prevent the airborne transmission of COVID-19. However, only a few studies have been performed on wearing a mask during resistance exercise (RE) which is primarily performed in indoor fitness centers. This study aimed to investigate the effects of wearing a KF94 mask on exercise volume, perceptual parameters, and physiological responses during RE. Twenty young men participated in this randomized crossover trial. Participants performed moderate-intensity (1RM 60%) RE sessions in two different conditions (KF94 mask vs. no mask). Cardiorespiratory parameters, exercise volume, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and dyspnea were measured during RE. Blood lactate concentration, blood pressure, arterial stiffness, and perceptual parameters were measured at pre-exercise and post-exercise. Exercise volume, ventilation volume, and ventilation efficiency parameters were lower with the KF94 mask than without the mask. However, RPE and dyspnea were higher with the KF94 mask than without the mask. Central arterial stiffness at post-exercise was higher with the KF94 mask than without the mask. Therefore, wearing a KF94 mask during RE affects exercise volume, perceptual parameters, and physiological responses, suggesting coaches need to modify RE manipulation variables while wearing a KF94 mask.