Is it safe for people with asthma to exercise? And what exercises should they avoid? Learn the most important information about asthma and exercise in this article.
Below, we'll explore the most important information about asthma and exercise:
The Relationship Between Asthma and Exercise
People with asthma can exercise if they follow a treatment plan to manage their condition. Many world-class athletes with asthma have won Olympic gold medals.
Even if you don't want to be a professional athlete, exercise can benefit your health because it:
Keeps you fit.
Helps you reach a healthy weight.
Strengthens your respiratory muscles, which is very important for people with asthma because it can help your lungs function better.
Gives you significant emotional benefits, as it increases the release of endorphins and other chemicals in the body that can help people feel optimistic, calm, and content.
Exercise helps people with asthma sleep better.
Best and Worst Exercises for Asthma Patients
For people with asthma who want to exercise, some activities are better than others. Short bursts of activity, such as volleyball, gymnastics, walking, and wrestling, are good for asthma sufferers because they are generally more tolerable.
However, the following activities may not be suitable for asthma sufferers, even though many people with asthma can fully participate in them:
Sports that require prolonged exertion, such as soccer, long-distance running, and basketball.
Cold-based sports, such as skiing.
Tips for Exercising Safely
If you have asthma and want to exercise, here are some tips to help you do so safely:
Be sure to take your prescribed asthma medication exactly as directed before starting any physical activity to help calm your airways.
Breathe through a scarf while exercising. This can help warm the air entering your respiratory system as you breathe more deeply. Avoid exercising outdoors in very cold temperatures and look for alternative indoor exercise options, such as working out at a gym or swimming in an indoor pool.
Wait until a cold or nausea subsides before exercising, and allow your body to fully recover, especially if you have a cough or any upper respiratory issue.
Warm up and cool down for at least ten minutes before starting your workout. This can help prepare your airways.
Consider exercises that involve short bursts of energy and avoid strenuous activities.
Try swimming. The warm, humid environment of swimming pools often makes it a good option for people with asthma. However, be sure to choose indoor pools that are clean and low in chloramine, as irritants in the air and water can worsen asthma.
When should you see a doctor?
You should see your doctor if you experience severe asthma symptoms after exercise, such as:
Shortness of breath.
Wheezing. Symptoms persist after using an inhaler prescribed for asthma attacks.
It's important to note that if you experience these symptoms, asthma attacks may not be the sole cause. Many other medical conditions can also cause them, so it's essential to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.