Seeing Clearly and Sweating Hard: Why You Can (and Should) Workout With Contacts

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

As fitness enthusiasts, we’re always looking for ways to optimize our workouts and make the most out of our time at the gym. So when it comes to wearing contacts during exercise, we might find ourselves wondering: can I workout with contacts? For those who rely on corrective lenses, this is a valid question that often goes unanswered. But fear not, as we dive into the world of working out with contacts and uncover everything you need to know about this topic. From potential risks to helpful tips, let’s explore the ins and outs of wearing contacts while breaking a sweat.

The Importance of Proper Eye Care During Workouts

Working out with contacts on may seem like a convenient option, but it is important to understand the potential risks and take necessary precautions. Our eyes are one of the most sensitive organs and require proper care, especially during physical activities. Without proper eye care, we may end up damaging our vision in the long run. Here’s why it is crucial to prioritize eye care during workouts.

Protect Your Lenses from Sweat and Dirt

Our eyes naturally produce tears to keep the lenses moist and clean. However, during a workout, we tend to sweat a lot which may mix with the tears and irritate our eyes. This can not only lead to discomfort but also cause infections if small particles or dirt get into our eyes along with sweat. Wearing contact lenses can further aggravate this problem as they act as a barrier between our eyes and natural tears.

To avoid this problem, it is essential to wipe off any sweat or dirt around your eyes regularly. You can also use sweatbands or headbands to prevent perspiration from seeping into your eyes. Another helpful tip is to use lubricating eye drops before and after working out to keep your lenses moist and clean.

Prevent Lens Dislodgement

During high-intensity workouts such as running or weightlifting, there is a high chance of contact lenses getting dislodged or shifted out of place due to sudden movements. This can cause blurry vision or even lead to losing the lens altogether.

To prevent this from happening, one easy solution would be switching from contact lenses to glasses while working out. If you prefer wearing contacts for visual reasons, opt for daily disposable lenses as they are smaller in size and designed for more rigorous activities like sports compared to monthly or bi-weekly disposable lenses.

Avoid Irritation from Contact Lens Solution

Contact lens solution is a vital component of maintaining hygiene and prolonging the lifespan of our lenses. However, most solutions are not designed to withstand heavy physical activity, causing the product to break down and irritate our eyes.

If you plan on working out while wearing contacts, it is essential to choose a solution specifically made for sports or high-intensity activities. These solutions have fewer preservatives and are more gentle on the eyes. You can also consult your eye doctor for recommendations on which solution would work best for you.

Prevent Dry Eyes

Dry eyes are a common problem among people who wear contact lenses regularly. When we exercise, our bodies tend to lose more water through sweat, and this can lead to dryness in our eyes. Exercising with contact lenses can further worsen this problem as they absorb moisture from the eyes.

To avoid dryness in your eyes during workouts, make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your session. It would also help to take breaks in between exercises and close your eyes for a few seconds to let them rest.

Taking Extra Precautions for Contact Lens Wearers

While it is generally recommended to avoid wearing contact lenses during workouts, there are certain precautions that one can take if they absolutely need to wear them during physical activities.

Wear Protective Eyewear

One of the best ways to protect your eyes while exercising with contacts is by wearing protective eyewear such as sports goggles or glasses designed for sports. These provide a barrier between your contacts and external factors like sweat, dirt, or sudden movements that may cause lens dislodgement.

Goggles or wrap-around glasses are an excellent option as they not only protect the lenses but also prevent any harmful UV rays from entering our sensitive eyes.

Clean Your Lenses Thoroughly

Before working out, make sure to clean your contact lenses thoroughly with the recommended solution. This will get rid of any buildup of bacteria or dirt that may irritate your eyes during exercise.

Be Mindful of Your Surroundings

When exercising outdoors, be mindful of your surroundings and any potential hazards that may cause harm to your eyes. For instance, if you are running on a trail, there may be branches or debris that can easily get into your eyes and cause irritation or damage to your lenses.

It is also crucial to avoid rubbing your eyes while exercising as it may accidentally dislodge or shift the contact lens in place.

Working out with contacts is not ideal; however, with proper precautions and by being aware of potential risks, it can be done without causing harm to our eyes. One essential aspect is to prioritize eye care by keeping our lenses clean, avoiding irritation from sweat and contact solution, and taking extra precautions like wearing protective eyewear. Ultimately, it is crucial to consult with your eye doctor before making any decisions regarding wearing contacts during workouts. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs. Taking care of our vision should always be a top priority, even when we are focused on maintaining a healthy lifestyle

Can I Workout With Contacts

Contact lenses are a popular choice for vision correction due to their convenience and comfort. However, for those who lead an active lifestyle, the question of whether it is safe to workout with contacts may arise. While it may seem like wearing contacts during a workout would be uncomfortable or even risky, the truth is that it is perfectly fine as long as precautions are taken. In this article, we will delve into the subject of working out with contacts and address any concerns you may have.

Comfort and Safety Factors

One of the main concerns people have about working out with contacts is possible discomfort or even damage to the eyes. It is important to mention that wearing contacts while working out poses no extra risk compared to simply wearing them on a regular day. As long as you follow proper hygiene guidelines and take good care of your eyes, there should be no issues. However, you want to make sure you keep these factors in mind while exercising:

Hygiene

Maintaining proper hygiene when handling your contact lenses is essential in preventing eye infections. Before touching your lenses, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used. Additionally, make sure to always use fresh solution when cleaning and storing your lenses.

Sweat & Dirt

Sweat and dirt from workouts can potentially cause irritation if they get into your eyes while wearing contacts. To avoid this issue, make sure to wear a sweatband to prevent sweat from dripping down onto your eyes. Also, try not to touch your face with dirty hands during workouts.

Length of Workout

The duration of your workout may also play a role in how comfortable wearing contacts will be for you. Longer workouts may lead to dryness and discomfort in the eye, so it is important to use lubricating eye drops if needed. You can also opt for daily disposable contacts which eliminate the need for cleaning and storing, making them a convenient choice for frequent exercisers.

Types of Contacts and Workouts

Not all contact lenses are created equal when it comes to working out. Some types of contacts may work better for certain types of physical activity. Here are some things to keep in mind while choosing contact lenses for working out:

Daily Disposable Contacts

As mentioned earlier, daily disposable contacts are great for those who work out regularly. They eliminate the need for cleaning and storing, making them a hassle-free option for active individuals.

Gas Permeable Contacts

Gas permeable contacts allow more oxygen flow to the eyes compared to traditional soft lenses, making them a good choice for high-intensity exercises that involve a lot of sweating.

Soft Contacts

Soft contact lenses are very comfortable and suitable for most types of physical activity. They come in different forms such as daily wear, extended wear, and even ones made specifically for sports.

Tips for Comfortable Workouts with Contacts

Here are some additional tips that can help make your workouts more comfortable while wearing contacts:

Wear Protective Eyewear

If you participate in sports or activities that involve potential eye injuries, wearing protective eyewear is highly recommended. This will help ensure both your eyes and your contacts stay safe.

Don’t Wear Contacts All Day Long

It is important to give your eyes a break from contacts every once in a while, especially if you wear them all day long. Wearing glasses or going without any correction for a day can help rest your eyes and reduce the risk of irritation.

Keep Your Eyes Hydrated

As mentioned before, prolonged workouts can cause dryness and discomfort in the eyes. To avoid this, make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout.

Listen to Your Body

If you experience any discomfort or irritation in your eyes while wearing contacts during a workout, listen to your body and take a break. Your eye health should always come first.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is perfectly safe to workout with contacts as long as proper precautions are taken. Maintaining good hygiene, wearing appropriate types of contacts, and listening to your body are all important factors in ensuring a comfortable and safe workout experience. Remember to always follow the instructions given by your eye care professional for the best results. Don’t let vision correction hold you back from living an active lifestyle – with the right care and considerations, you can enjoy all types of physical activities while wearing contact lenses.

1. Can I workout with contacts if I have sensitive eyes?
Yes, you can workout with contacts even if you have sensitive eyes. However, it is recommended to wear daily disposable contacts to reduce the risk of eye irritation.

2. Can I wear my regular contacts while exercising?
It depends on the type of exercise and how vigorous it is. If you are doing moderate exercise, then it is safe to wear your regular contacts. However, for more intense workouts, it is advised to switch to sports or daily disposable contacts.

3. What are the precautions I should take when working out with contacts?
You should always wash your hands before handling your contacts, avoid touching your eyes during exercise, and try to keep sweat away from your eyes as much as possible. It is also recommended to use lubricating eye drops before and after working out.

4. Is it safe to swim while wearing contacts during a workout?
No, it is not safe to swim while wearing contacts as they can easily get dislodged or come into contact with harmful bacteria in the water. It is best to remove your contacts before swimming and use prescription goggles instead.

5. Can I wear my contact lenses for an outdoor workout in hot weather?
If you have dry or sensitive eyes, it is not recommended to wear contact lenses for an outdoor workout in hot weather. The combination of heat and sweat can cause discomfort and irritation. Consider switching to prescription sports glasses during hot weather.

6. Are there any specific types of contact lenses that are better for working out?
Yes, there are specialized sports or daily disposable contact lenses that are designed for physical activities and provide better stability on the eye compared to regular contacts. Consult with your eye doctor to find the best option for you.

In conclusion, the question of whether one can work out with contacts is a commonly asked one among individuals who wear vision correction lenses. Through the course of this discussion, we have explored different aspects related to this topic, including the potential risks and benefits, tips for working out with contacts, and alternative options.

It is evident that working out with contacts can be a convenient and comfortable option for many people. However, it is crucial to prioritize eye safety and hygiene by following proper precautions while doing so. These include replacing old or damaged lenses, avoiding contact with water or sweat, and being mindful of any potential irritation or discomfort.

Furthermore, there are alternative options available for those who do not feel comfortable working out with contacts. These include wearing prescription sports goggles or getting laser eye surgery to correct vision permanently.

Finally, the key takeaway from this discussion is that each individual’s eye health and preferences are unique. Therefore, it is essential to consult an eye care professional before making any decisions regarding wearing contact lenses while working out.

In conclusion, whether one chooses to work out with contacts or opt for alternative options ultimately depends on their personal comfort and safety preferences. By being informed and taking necessary precautions, individuals can continue their fitness journey without compromising their eye health. So always remember to prioritize your vision

Author Profile

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Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.