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When the abysmal brown lumps of smog hang oppressively over the city, you may think to yourself, "this can't be good for my health." But you soldier on anyways, because the contaminated city air is all you have to breathe. It's not like you can pipe in fresh air via peppermint-striped tubes.
Health Risks of Smog
Smog can trigger allergies and asthma, irritate the eyes, nose and throat, exacerbate heart and lung problems, cause lung cancer (possibly), and smog may even lead to an early death.
You can protect your lungs from smoggy city air by taking a few simple precautions:
Exercise Indoors
When you run, you take in ten times more air than someone who is standing still. That means you take in ten times more pollutants as well. Gyms may not be the greenest places to workout, but they can be a healthier place to exercise than in the open air of a polluted metropolis. Avoid heavy workouts on humid, hazy days.
I've ridden my bike down the length of Santa Monica Blvd. in LA during rush hour, and I arrived at work nearly ill from the fumes. It's true. The air quality in some places is not conducive to exercise.
Protective Gear
If the pollution irritates your eyes while biking or jogging, consider purchasing goggles or sunglasses. You can also jog with a particle mask on if you can stand it.
Exercise Away From Traffic
Do not exercise near busy highways or during rush hour.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Getting your car off the road will lead to fewer emissions. Carpooling, biking to work, and taking public transportation can make your city a healthier place to live. Keeping your car in good shape and reducing the amount of energy that you consume will help everything, everywhere.
Stay Indoors During the Afternoons
Afternoons are peak ozone hours. Stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day. Exercise in the mornings and the evenings.
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