Stamina and speed with the mask

Cyprus International University (CIU) School of Physical Education and Sports (SPES) carried out anthropometric measurements of the endurance and speed performances of football players aged 20 from Yenicami Sports Club with and without medical masks.

According to the statements made by the World Health Organization (WHO), the use of masks is the first of the measures that individuals should take personally during the pandemic. The masks used for physiological protection are used during physical activity and sports, as well as in every field.

As the use of masks is inevitable, especially in situations where close contact is required and where there is no social distance, CIU SPES planned a study to conduct performance tests for football players.

Within the scope of the study, the endurance and speed performances of 15 football players aged 20 from the Yenicami Sports Club were tested with and without the use of medical masks through field performance tests (yo-yo test, 30m speed running test) and anthropometric measurements (height, weight, body fat percentage), lean body weight, subcutaneous fat percentage).

The measurements of the athletes were done by Specialist Physiotherapist Sema Özden and Instructor Şeyda Çelik Karahançer under the supervision of the Director of School of Physical Education and Sports Prof. Dr. Ali Emre Erol at the CIU Arena Sports Complex.

It was stated that the study in question is a scientific study and will guide many researchers in the future and help shape the programs of experts working with trainers and athletes during this process.