Weighing up the benefits of exercise is usually pretty straight-forward: doing something — anything — is better than nothing.

But, for many of us, maintaining fitness and being physically active outdoors has recently become more complicated.

As fires blaze in parts of Australia, and dozens of communities fight to protect their lives and homes, many are living with smoke haze and thick smog.

NSW is now in the grips of its longest and most widespread period of poor air quality on record, and data shows Sydney’s air quality is three times worse this bushfire season than at any time in the past five years.

Bushfire smoke poses a range of health issues, and the best way to avoid it (generally speaking) is to stay inside.

But with fires expected to continue for some months, how can we keep fit and active, while managing the risks to our health?

“Try to find a window of time where air quality is slightly better. And of course, if you feel symptoms, it’s better to stop exercising and take a break”

If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms, such as shortness of breath or chest pain, or just do not feel well, you should speak to your health care professional and in an emergency, call 000.

Source
Olivia Willis
ABC News