Love a good sweat? If you’re one of the about 20 million Americans with asthma, this may not be a problem. But, for some vigorous activity like running or playing team sports such as basketball, can cause the airways to become inflamed, narrow and swell, and produce extra mucus, which makes it difficult to breathe.
Fortunately for sufferers, having asthma, even exercise-induced asthma, doesn’t have to keep you from training dirty. According to research, the trick is to control symptoms with meds (prescribed, of course) in addition to selecting activity that focuses on a leisurely pace as well as simple breathing techniques.
While treatments have varied over-the-years, everything from herbal remedies to relocation to dryer climates, here’s the latest in what’s good in exercise for asthma sufferers.
Biking
We’re not talking mountain biking. Rapid in-and-out breathing linked to cycling up steep hills or around bends can dry out airways, potentially exacerbating your asthma. However, one study found that even though cyclists and mountain bikers were more likely to have asthma than other Summer Olympians, they were still able to compete – when maintaining a leisurely pace.
Pay close attention to the weather as extreme temperatures as well as pollen levels can prove dangerous for sufferers. The good news? Most gyms are equipped with stationary bikes; or even offer cycling clinics also, decent options, to work in a good sweat.
Swimming
This medium level intensity sport will keep you cool and allows you to set your own pace. Your heart will also get a great workout. That’s because it’s gentle on your joints and muscles. Experts advise doing two-and-a-half hours of swimming a week to meet cardio requirements.