Hidden contaminants in the gym

Increased breathing rate during exercise increases the likelihood of inhaling pollutants, if present in the gym - Photo: Freepik

Recently, a group of Chinese scientists conducted a study to investigate air quality in gyms, aiming to clarify the composition and concentration of air pollutants in indoor exercise environments.

Professor Sun Yele from the Institute of Atmospheric Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the author of the study, said that over a period of 20 consecutive days, they meticulously analyzed the air using a high-resolution aerosol mass spectrometer.

Their findings, published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, show that indoor gym air contains a higher proportion of organic aerosols (OAs) compared to outdoor environments. Specifically, about 50% of inhaled particulate matter in gyms is OA, a significant increase from the approximately 40% observed outdoors.

Additionally, scientists have identified two distinct types of aerosols in gym environments. The first type, siloxane (SiOA), was found in surprisingly high concentrations, accounting for 7-11% of the total OA.

According to Professor Sun, the presence of SiOA is due to the silicone polymer lubricants used in exercise equipment. In addition, OA present in cigarette smoke or cooking activities in nearby spaces also contributes to indoor air quality.

Researchers note that gym ventilation systems can inadvertently draw in pollutants from external sources.

Therefore, Mr. Sun believes that understanding the composition and concentration of pollutants in the exercise environment is crucial for assessing the potential health risks associated with exercise, as the increased breathing rate during exercise increases the likelihood of inhaling these particles and affecting human health.

The research supports a comprehensive assessment of air quality across a wide range of fitness facilities, considering factors such as equipment variety, occupancy rates, and ventilation systems. Such investigations are instrumental in developing effective strategies to protect indoor air quality and mitigate health risks associated with exercise.

Professor Sun also hopes to expand the research by conducting experiments in various gyms to determine the prevalence of pollutant particles.

He also expressed optimism about future improvements to the devices, envisioning real-time monitoring of OA and volatile organic compounds to aid in better understanding of air quality in gyms.

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/tiem-an-cac-chat-gay-o-nhiem-trong-phong-tap-gym-20240522082745307.htm