Exercise With Oxygen Therapy (EWOT) is gaining traction as a powerful tool to enhance physical performance, accelerate recovery, and boost overall health. Whether you are new to this therapy or have experience using EWOT, understanding how to maximize the benefits of your EWOT system can make a significant difference.  

This guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure you get the most out of your EWOT sessions.  Let’s dive in!  

Understanding Your EWOT Mask

Oxygen supplementation has been repeatedly shown to help people with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). But before starting with an EWOT system, you need to know about the components of an EWOT mask and the types offered by providers.

Components of an EWOT Mask

An EWOT mask delivers concentrated oxygen to your body during exercise. While the specific design may vary, a standard EWOT mask typically consists of the following components:

• Face Mask: The primary component that covers your nose and mouth, ensuring the oxygen is delivered directly to your respiratory system.  
• Oxygen Tubing: Connects the face mask to the oxygen source, allowing oxygen flow during your workout.
• Valves: These are crucial for regulating the airflow and ensuring that the oxygen delivered is pure and not mixed with the gases you exhale.  
• Head Straps: Adjustable straps help secure the mask firmly during exercise.

Types of EWOT Masks

Different types of EWOT masks are available, each catering to various needs and budgets. The most common types include:  

• NextGen EWOT Masks: These are advanced masks designed with enhanced features like superior oxygen flow control, better fit, and durability. They are ideal for those who frequently engage in EWOT sessions and require a mask that can withstand regular use.   
• Economy EWOT Masks: These masks are more affordable and perfect for beginners who are not in good shape cardiovascularly or those who engage in EWOT sessions less frequently. While they may lack some of the advanced features of the NextGen masks, they still provide effective oxygen delivery for a successful EWOT session. But before investing in an EWOT mask, look for options and choose the one that works best for you. 
• Painters Masks:  Some vendors are using masks designed to filter paint fumes as EWOT masks. These masks do not have a valve that keeps your humid, carbon dioxide breath from re-entering the reservoir and diluting your next breath.  We highly recommend against these sorts of designs.

Pre-Session Preparation

Before starting to exercise with your EWOT mask, there are preparations to do beforehand:

1. Proper Mask Fitting

The first step to maximizing your EWOT session is ensuring that your mask fits correctly. A poorly fitted mask can result in oxygen leakage, reducing the effectiveness of the therapy. To achieve a proper fit:

• Adjust the Head Straps: Ensure the straps are snug but not too tight, ensuring the mask stays in place during exercise without causing discomfort.  
• Seal the Mask: Check the edges of the mask to ensure they are sealed against your face if air is escaping, re-adjust the straps or mask position until the seal is tight.  

2. Checking the Oxygen Supply

Before starting your session, verify that your oxygen supply is ready to go:

• Oxygen Source: Ensure that your oxygen concentrator and reservoir is functioning correctly and has sufficient oxygen for the entire session.
• Tubing Connection: Check that the oxygen tubing is securely connected to both the mask and the reservoir to prevent any interruptions in oxygen flow during exercise.   

3. Ensuring Cleanliness and Hygiene

Hygiene is crucial when using an EWOT system to avoid respiratory issues:

• Clean the Mask: Before each session, ensure the mask is clean and free of dust or residue.  If you mask it dirty, clean it with warm, soapy water and let it drip dry.
• Masks for Multiple Users: It is recommended that multiple masks be available if more than one person uses the EWOT system.

During the EWOT Session

There are certain crucial steps to factor in during your EWOT session: 

1. Breathe Regularly: 

Proper breathing is essential to maximize the benefits of your EWOT session:

• Keep breathing normal: As you would during any cardio exercise, breathe normally through your nose and exhale through your mouth, ensuring steady oxygen flow into your bloodstream. Relaxed breathing helps optimize oxygen absorption and overall performance.   

2. Pace Your EWOT duration: 

If you are new at EWOT, start slow. Observe how you feel and gradually increase the duration:   

Gradually Build Workout Intensity:  Increase your workout intensity gradually during EWOT sessions. Start at a moderate pace and adjust based on how your body feels. The goal is to challenge your body without overwhelming it, which optimizes oxygen delivery to muscles.  

3. Adjusting the Mask During Exercise

Sometimes, the mask may shift during exercise, especially if you’re engaging in intense physical activity:  

• Pause and Adjust: If you feel the mask slipping or notice a change in oxygen delivery, pause your exercise and readjust the mask. Ensure the seal is tight and the mask fits comfortably on your face before resuming.

Post-Session Care

Keep note of these points after getting done with your EWOT session:

1. Removing the Mask Safely

After your session, it’s important to remove the EWOT mask properly to avoid any discomfort or injury:

• Remove the Mask Gently: Unfasten the straps and gently lift the mask away from your face to avoid pulling on your skin or hair.
• Continuous Usage Without Shutdown: These EWOT systems ensure seamless operation. If multiple users share the equipment, you can keep it running, ensuring it's ready for the next person without downtime.

2. Cleaning and Storing the Mask

Proper care of your EWOT mask ensures its longevity and hygiene:

• Clean After Every Use: After each session, clean the mask with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely before storing.  
• Store in a Clean, Dry Place: Store the mask in a clean, dry place to prevent any buildup of dust or bacteria.   

3. Reviewing Session Performance

Taking time to reflect on your session can help you improve future EWOT sessions:

• Evaluate Breathing Techniques: Consider how well you managed your breathing and if there were any challenges. Adjust your approach for the next session if needed.
• Monitor Your Body’s Response: Pay attention to how your body feels post-session. Note any improvements in performance, energy levels, or recovery. 

Expert Tips for Maximizing EWOT Results

Here’s a list of expert tips that you can follow to maximize the results of your EWOT session:

1. Combining EWOT with Other modalities

EWOT can be even more effective when combined with other modalities:

• Pair with Physical Therapy: Combining the EWOT system with physical therapy can enhance muscle recovery and overall rehabilitation.
• Integrate with Nutritional Support: Ensuring your diet is rich in oxygen-supporting nutrients like iron and vitamin C can boost the effectiveness of EWOT.

2. Maintain a Consistent Routine

If you wish to make the most of your EWOT sessions, stay consistent:

Start with Shorter Sessions: If you're new to EWOT, begin with shorter sessions, around 5-10 minutes, and gradually increase the duration as your body adapts. This helps build endurance. Over time, aim for 15-20 minutes per session to optimize oxygen delivery and maximize results. Additionally, learn as much as you can about exercise with oxygen therapy. 

• Track Your Progress: As you can use EWOT systems by yourselves, you might keep a fitness tracker to monitor your EWOT sessions, recording the duration, intensity, and how you feel after each workout. Tracking progress not only keeps you motivated but also helps identify improvements in your energy levels, recovery speed, and overall fitness

3. Regular Maintenance for Long-Term Use

Regular maintenance of your EWOT system ensures its longevity and effectiveness:

• Inspect the Mask and Tubing Regularly: Check for any signs of wear and tear on the mask and tubing. Replace any damaged parts promptly.
• Keep the Tubes in Top Condition: The valves ensure the tube is clean; if not, replace it. No servicing is required.  

Bottom Line

Using your EWOT mask correctly is crucial to getting the most out of your EWOT system. From proper mask fitting and pre-session preparation to post-session care and expert tips, each step plays a vital role in enhancing the effectiveness of your therapy.   

By following these guidelines, you can maximize your results, improve your physical performance, and enjoy the full benefits of EWOT with One Thousand Roads, which offers high-quality masks that best supplement your exercise regime.