Why Do Runners Wear Nose Strips – A Complete Guide

Nose strips are an increasingly popular accessory with runners due to the various performance benefits they can provide, from reducing drag and improving breathing to stimulating oxygen flow to the muscles. The first use of nasal strips in running was by the Swedes during the 1980s, and their popularity has increased significantly in recent years, with the likes of the world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt, crediting them with helping him stay ahead of the pack.

What Are Nose Strips

Nose strips are adhesive strips of plastic or fabric that runners place along either side of the nose to help open the nasal passages. When placed underneath the nose, these strips gently pull the sides of the nose and create an increased airflow, allowing for greater air intake. This can be especially beneficial for runners competing in events of longer distances like marathons, as it can help them maintain a consistent breathing pattern and reduce fatigue.

Benefits of Nose Strips For Runners

Another benefit of nose strips for runners is improved performance. In addition to allowing for easier breathing and reducing drag, many athletes believe that nose strips can help stimulate the flow of oxygen to the muscles. This is why some runners, such as Usain Bolt, prefer to use them when competing in Sprinting events. By providing improved breathing and oxygen flow, many athletes feel they can improve their performance and go the extra mile.

Another advantage of nose strips for runners is the protection they can offer to the nose and upper respiratory system. Since they provide a slight and constant lift to the nasal cartilage, nose strips can prevent congestion and reduce the risk of blowing noses after exercise. Nose strips also help reduce exposure to dust and allergens in the air, which can be beneficial for allergy sufferers.

Overall, nasal strips can be a great addition to any runner’s toolkit and can provide a range of performance benefits, from increased airflow and oxygen flow to reduced fatigue and exposure to allergens. Although some runners may be hesitant to try them, there’s no denying that nose strips can be useful and may even help them set new personal bests.

Conclusion

In summary, nose strips are an increasingly popular accessory for runners due to the various performance benefits they can provide. These adhesive strips are placed on either side of the nose to open the nasal passages, allowing for greater air intake which can be beneficial for events of longer distances like marathons. Additionally, nose strips can help stimulate the flow of oxygen to the muscles, improve performance and protect the nose and upper respiratory system from congestion and exposure to allergens. While some runners may be hesitant to try them, nose strips can be a useful addition to any runner’s toolkit and may even help them set new personal bests.