Pollution Ruins Walks: Find Safe Outdoor Times

Outdoor walking, a beneficial habit, can turn toxic during high pollution seasons, a cardiologist warns. Breathing polluted air can counteract the positive effects of physical activity, potentially causing lung irritation and increasing cardiovascular stress. This compromised air quality significantly reduces the cardiorespiratory workout benefits of walking.

Dr. Hemant Madan advises that times when your body struggles with coughing or breathlessness indicate the walking is counterproductive. He specifically identifies early morning and late evening as risky periods for outdoor exercise in North India, as these times typically experience the highest pollutant concentrations.

To safely enjoy outdoor walks, select times when air quality improves. The late morning, around 11:30 am to 12 pm, and late afternoon, from 3:30 to 4 pm, are suggested as safer intervals. During these periods, warmer temperatures and sunlight aid pollutant dispersion, making the air easier to breathe.