People that live with asthma need to be more careful in choosing exercises to do. Certain types of exercise can actually trigger asthma symptoms, eventhough routine physical activity is still important to support immune function. So, what kinds of exercise are considered safe if you have asthma?

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the airways. During an asthma attack, the muscles around the airways tighten and the airway passages become narrower, so less air reaches the lungs and breathing becomes difficult.

This inflammation can also cause the body to produce more mucus than usual. The excess mucus further narrows the airways and can make you feel short of breath.

The exact cause of asthma is not fully understood. However, symptoms can be brought on by factors such as changes in weather, air pollution, upper respiratory tract infections, food allergies, as well as stress or anxiety. A family history of asthma also increases the risks of developing asthma.

When it comes to exercise, some activities can exacerbate asthma symptoms. This situation is known as exercise-induced asthma, which refers to asthma symptoms that appear during or after physical activity. Because of this, people with asthma are advised to choose their exercise carefully to help prevent flare-ups.

Recommended Exercise for People with Asthma

According to Healthline, suitable exercise for people with asthma is activities that improve lung capacity without placing excessive strain on the body.

Even so, everyone’s physical tolerance is different. Before settling on a particular type of exercise, it is best to discuss it with a doctor.

Some types of exercise often recommended for people with asthma include:

Swimming

Swimming is one of the most recommended exercises for people with asthma. It is considered relatively safe because it uses a lot of energy in a short period, does not overly burden the body, and usually exposes the body to fewer allergens. In addition, swimming helps train breathing patterns.

While it is safe, if you are sensitive to chlorine, you still need to be cautious, as pool water and its fumes may cause allergic reaction in some people.

Walking

Walking is a simple, low-cost activity that almost anyone can do. Doing it regularly can help train breathing. To reduce the risks of asthma attacks, try walking in open areas with cleaner air and lower pollution levels. If that is difficult, walking indoors or on a treadmill can be a good alternative.

Yoga

Yoga combines breathing exercises that also help strengthen muscles. Focusing on slow, controlled breaths can increase lung capacity.

Yoga and other breathing-based practices can also help lower stress levels. Since stress can contribute to asthma symptoms in some people, managing stress may indirectly reduce asthma attacks.

Besides the activities above, you can choose other low to moderate-intensity exercises, such as cycling, brisk walking, golf, recreational soccer, or volleyball. Whatever you choose, pick an activity you enjoy so you won't feel burdened, and always adjust the intensity to your own limits.

Safe Exercise Tips for People with Asthma

Because physical activity can sometimes trigger asthma attacks, it is important to take precautions before and during exercise. Some tips you can follow include:

• Warm up for 15 minutes so your lungs can regulate oxygen intake.

• Stay away from personal asthma triggersn.

• Always keep your prescribed asthma medication with you everywhere.

• If you exercise with others, let a friend or trainer know that you have asthma and explain what they should do if you have an attack.

• Avoid strenuous exercise.

• Take a break if you start to feel tired or breathless.

• Finish each session with a cool-down.

When your exercise is done properly, exercise can help people with asthma become healthier. If you have asthma, make sure to consult a doctor before deciding on the exercise that suits you best.

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