LIMIT OUTDOOR EXERCISE ON HAZY DAYS
Health experts say people should consider both the intensity and duration of outdoor exercise when haze levels are elevated.
Dr Gerald Fung, medical director at Unihealth 24-HR Clinic (Yishun), said it is “the total exposure to the haze and the pollutants that matters”.
“A one-hour pickleball game is usually more intense so you breathe in more air per minute,” he said.
“A round of golf is less intense but can last around four to five hours. If you're walking the (golf) course, over time the total amount of pollutants you inhale could be quite similar or even higher. So, golf is not (necessarily) the safer option.”
While there are no fixed cut-offs for outdoor activities amid the haze, Dr Fung advised those exercising outdoors to limit their sessions to around 30 to 60 minutes on hazy days where possible.
They should move their workouts indoors if air quality worsens and consider reducing both the intensity and duration of their exercise.
People should also stop exercising and seek medical advice if they experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest tightness or wheezing, while those with asthma should keep their inhalers with them, he added.
SportSG said its programmes, including those organised by ActiveSG academies and clubs, are guided by its Haze Management Plan, which is aligned with the National Environment Agency's haze advisories.
Depending on conditions, coaches may adjust the intensity of activities and provide additional breaks.
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