5 best workouts for asthma patients
Working out can be a challenge especially among people who have asthma as it can trigger several adverse reactions such as shortness of breath, headache, and wheezing. Fortunately, there are many ways asthmatics can do exercise. The key is to make sure your asthma is well-controlled and that you pick the right type of exercise to do.
You might want to stay away from strenuous workouts like soccer or playing basketball. If you are allergic to pollen, you might consider taking your workout indoors. Best of all, it is advisable to consult a medical expert or your physician first before trying out any type of exercise.
Here is a list of the five best workouts people with asthma can do.
SWIMMING
The Health Central recommends swimming to be one of the best sports asthma patients can try. Pool areas are mostly moist and warm thus the atmosphere and air will less than likely trigger an asthma attack. Furthermore, as swimming requires a person to stay in a horizontal position, it can help loosen up the accumulated mucus in the lungs.
However, make sure to be careful around pools that have excessive chlorine as the strong smell can induce shortness of breath, resulting to an asthma attack.
YOGA
Medicine Net suggests enrolling in a yoga class because according to a 2012 study, yoga training for over 10 weeks can improve mild to moderate asthma condition among women. Starting with a beginner’s class is the best way to incorporate yoga in an asthmatic’s fitness routine as it follows a low-intensity program that can relax the body and mind.
WALKING
Health Magazine recommends the most obvious workout strategy for asthmatics and that is walking. One study has even proven walking three times in a week for a duration of 12 weeks can improve asthma control and help increase an asthmatic’s physical activity without ending in an attack. Make sure to warm up first before embarking on a moderate to brisk walking routine as it can enhance tolerance and endurance.
WEIGHT TRAINING
Health Central adds that besides being a great way to lose weight, asthmatics can benefit from weight lifting by helping them to improve their muscle tone and strength. Start incorporating this type of training gradually, like lifting five pounds dumbbell for starters. Simple workouts will not induce asthma attacks and best of all, it can even improve the health of asthma patients.
BIKING
Medicine Net adds that as long as the weather is great, biking will not trigger an asthma attack. It is important to understand that no exercise is off-limits to asthma patients just because of their condition. As long as there are no potential triggers like weather, pollen or dust and the exercise is not as strenuous, you’re okay with it.