About This Tool
Should you go for a run today? Check the real-time outdoor exercise safety rating for your city based on current pollution levels and heart-rate risk. Get activity recommendations and best times to exercise.
How to Use - Can I Run Outside?
Step 1: Enter City Name
- Enter the name of your city where you want to exercise
- Click "Check Exercise Safety" to get real-time air quality data
- The tool analyzes current pollution levels and exercise risks
Step 2: Review The Verdict
- YES (Green): Safe to run - AQI ≤ 50, PM2.5 ≤ 25
- CAUTION (Yellow): Proceed with caution - AQI ≤ 100, PM2.5 ≤ 50
- NO (Red): Not recommended - Air quality too poor for running
Step 3: Check Activity Traffic Light
- Running: High breathing rate = more pollution inhaled (stricter limits)
- Walking: Moderate breathing rate (more lenient limits)
- Kids/Park: Children are more sensitive, need cleaner air
Step 4: Find Best Time
- See recommended times when air quality is typically better
- Early morning (6-8 AM) usually has cleaner air
- Afternoon (4-6 PM) can also be better in some cities
💡 Tip: Running increases your breathing rate significantly, so you inhale more pollution. If air quality is poor, consider indoor workouts or wait for better conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Running significantly increases your breathing rate (up to 3-4x normal), meaning you inhale more air (and pollution) per minute. This requires stricter air quality limits for safety compared to walking or light activities.
YES (Green) = Safe to run (AQI ≤ 50, PM2.5 ≤ 25). CAUTION (Yellow) = Proceed carefully (AQI ≤ 100, PM2.5 ≤ 50). NO (Red) = Not recommended due to poor air quality. The tool provides activity-specific recommendations for running, walking, and children.
Children have smaller lungs, higher breathing rates relative to body size, and developing respiratory systems, making them more vulnerable to air pollution. The tool provides separate safety ratings for children and outdoor activities.
The tool uses AQICN forecast data to identify times when air quality is expected to improve. It recommends the best time slots when pollution levels are lower, making outdoor exercise safer.
Indoor air quality is generally better than outdoor, but it depends on ventilation. When air quality is poor (Red), consider indoor exercise or wait for better conditions. The tool focuses on outdoor exercise safety.
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