Search Here

Outdoor Exercise and Air Pollution in Bangkok: What You Need to Know

Spread the love

Outdoor workouts are great for fitness, but air pollution, especially PM2.5 and ozone, can pose serious health risks. Fine particulate matter and ozone exposure during exercise may cause long-term damage, affecting the lungs and overall well-being.

Dr. Ekbordin Winijkul, Head of the Department of Water Resources and Environmental Engineering at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), highlights concerns over worsening air pollution. Urban areas and industrial zones face high pollution levels, increasing risks for the public and the environment. Addressing this issue requires cooperation from individuals, communities, and policymakers at all levels.

Air Pollution and Health Risks in Thailand

Thailand continues to struggle with poor air quality, especially high PM2.5 levels, which affect daily life and public health. Scientific studies link pollution exposure to respiratory and cardiovascular issues.

Certain groups, including children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with existing conditions, face higher risks. Spreading awareness and encouraging self-protection is crucial in minimizing health impacts.

The Effects of PM2.5 on the Body

A study by Bahri et al. (2022) found that individuals exercising in PM2.5 levels exceeding 80 micrograms per cubic meter for 14 weeks experienced inflammation, as shown by increased white blood cell counts. Their lung capacity (Forced Vital Capacity, FVC) showed no improvement, indicating that long-term exposure could lead to chronic respiratory diseases and lung cancer.

Understanding PM2.5 and Ozone Before Exercising

  • A 24-hour PM2.5 average under 15 micrograms per cubic meter is considered safe.

  • If hourly PM2.5 levels exceed 25 micrograms per cubic meter, high-risk individuals should avoid outdoor exercise.

  • If levels go beyond 50 micrograms per cubic meter, vulnerable groups should refrain from outdoor activity, and others should limit exercise time.

  • An 8-hour average ozone level above 100 micrograms per cubic meter may cause respiratory irritation, especially during intense physical activity.

Best Time to Work Out Outdoors

Air quality fluctuates throughout the day, making real-time monitoring essential before outdoor exercise.

  • Morning (05:00–08:00 AM): Although the air feels cool, temperature inversions in the morning and winter can trap pollutants close to the ground.

  • Midday (09:00–03:00 PM): Ozone concentration peaks due to intense sunlight, particularly in the summer.

  • Evening (04:00–07:00 PM): Comfortable temperatures make it a preferred time, but PM2.5 levels near traffic-heavy areas may remain high.

Staying Safe While Exercising Outdoors

  • Check real-time air quality through monitoring apps like Air4Thai.

  • Wear an N95 mask if PM2.5 exceeds 50 micrograms per cubic meter.

  • Choose indoor exercise in gyms or air-filtered spaces on high-pollution days.

  • Reduce workout intensity when pollution levels rise to lower inhalation of harmful particles.

  • Stop immediately if experiencing irritation, congestion, or breathing difficulties.

Regular exercise is essential for good health, but ensuring a pollution-free environment is equally important. Staying informed and adapting activities to air quality conditions helps protect well-being while promoting environmental responsibility.