Health experts said that exercising outdoors during periods of poor air quality increases the amount of pollutants inhaled into the lungs [1, 2].
This guidance comes as wildfire smoke affects multiple regions of the U.S., including Colorado, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Because physical exertion increases the breathing rate, athletes and residents are more susceptible to respiratory aggravation and decreased physical performance [1, 4].
Exercise-science professor Tony Nuñez and other medical professionals, including a pulmonologist, said the risks associated with these environmental conditions are significant [1, 3]. They said that when air quality drops, the lungs take in a higher volume of contaminated air, which can be dangerous for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions [1, 4].
The impact of poor air quality has already led to the disruption of public recreation in some areas. In Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, two community pools were closed or forced to reduce their operating hours due to the air quality [5].
Medical experts said that monitoring air quality indices is essential before planning outdoor workouts. When pollutants reach hazardous levels, the increased intake of smoke and particulates can make exercise not only difficult but unsafe [1, 2].
Recent reports from July 2026 said that these events are becoming more frequent in areas affected by wildfire smoke [3]. Residents are encouraged to move their workouts indoors or reschedule activities until the air clears to avoid long-term respiratory stress [1].
“Exercising increases breathing rate, so more polluted air is taken into the lungs.”
The intersection of increasing wildfire activity and public health highlights a growing need for adaptive fitness strategies. As smoke events become more common in the U.S., the reliance on real-time air quality monitoring will likely shift from a niche health precaution to a standard part of daily athletic and community planning.
