Ever wondered why those portable oxygen cans are there on the sidelines? Well, if you have ever watched an NFL game, you might have seen oxygen masks and cans on the sidelines for the athletes. But what’s the main purpose of it?

We all know on game days, players have to deliver an intense performance, which often results in an increase in breathing and heart rates. Hence, in that case, the body needs more oxygen for more energy and faster recuperation. So, these oxygen masks, which are also known as hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), are used by athletes for optimal performance in the games.

For instance, during the Chiefs vs. Saints game on October 7th, New Orleans defensive tackle Khalen Saunders, a former member of the Chiefs, required an oxygen mask on the sidelines. The photo, shared by the official MLFootball X account, showed Saunders drenched in sweat while inhaling oxygen. Interestingly, Saunders is also the brother of Taylor Swift’s backup dancer, Kameron Saunders.

Besides Khalen Saunders, many athletes, from Tom Brady to Russell Wilson, have used HBOT to enhance their performance and recovery. This technique can significantly boost maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max)—the higher it is, the more oxygen your body uses to fuel your muscles. Pretty important, right? Well, VO2 max depends on factors like age, fitness level, and even where you live. Here’s the cool part: supplemental oxygen can actually increase your VO2 max by providing your body with more oxygen to work with, helping you perform better and recover faster.

This advantage is a game-changer for NFL athletes, who endure grueling 60-minute games, making every bit of extra oxygen count! And this is evident in a study report too, which shows that 95% oxygen can speed up recovery and help your body stay strong during exercise.

How do oxygen masks work for NFL players?

When you breathe in, oxygen doesn’t just disappear – it fuels your body. It’s carried by your blood, helping muscles turn glucose into energy. According to the Oxygen Plus report, “When you inhale (even regular, ambient) air, oxygen is carried to the muscles through the bloodstream. Part of the oxygen is used immediately, while part of it is stored in your body to break down glucose and create fuel for the muscles in what is called ATP energy, which fuels your body for an intense workout.”

And as for athletes, especially runners, every breath matters, a little extra oxygen can make all the difference to them, between finishing strong or struggling with cramps. Without enough oxygen, muscles shift to producing lactic acid, causing fatigue. And let us remind you that it’s a struggle that no athlete wants. But that’s where oxygen masks step in, helping the NFL players to avoid crashes and health concerns.

So, you see, this oxygen mask is the real game changer!

Meanwhile, do also check out our latest Think Tank exclusive interview with Doug Sanders. It’s packed with insights on the current NFL season, college football, NIL, and much more.