Exposure to indoor air pollutants during physical activity in fitness centers

Physical activity has become a social need among people and it has been clearly proved that exercise is a way to prevent all-cause and cardiovascular-related death, diabetes mellitus and obesity. However, athletes and the common individual can be at risk when they are practicing exercise in polluted environments. In 2012, a monitoring program was undertaken in 11 fitness centers from Lisbon where comfort parameters (temperature and humidity) and indoor air pollutants (PM10, PM2.5, CO2, CO, CH2O and VOC) were measured. Three gyms were selected to perform a deeper analysis consisting of longer measurement periods and more parameters, such as particle chemical composition and nanoparticle lung deposition. Measurements were performed during the occupation time, in the studios and in the bodybuilding room, in order to recognize daily patterns and to identify pollutant sources. The pollutants CO2, VOC and CH2O presented high concentrations exceeding the national limit values, while O3 and CO did not present concerning levels. Pollutant continuous measurements demonstrated increased levels of particles when the spaces were occupied during classes. Results indicated that it is crucial to optimize the HVAC systems, ventilation rates and occupants behavior in order to reduce the exposure to air pollutants in fitness centers and to potentiate the benefits of sport activities.