BoomerGirl Diary

Q: I have asthma. It’s not terrible but enough to be concerned about.

I also feel the need to exercise but I heard that it could make my asthma worse. Could you shed some light on this?

A: It was long thought that asthmatics should avoid exercise because it induced attacks. Recent research shows that certain kinds of exercise can actually benefit many asthma sufferers. And some studies show that inactivity can make your asthma worse.

Vigorous exercise can induce asthma in about 15 percent of asthmatics.

The key is controlling the exercises and the exercise environment.

Exercise that starts slowly and gently builds intensity over time seems to work the best.

Here are some rules of thumb:

The first step is to check with your doctor to make sure you are a candidate for an exercise program. Some doctors prescribe a couple of puffs of your inhaler before exercise.

Many asthmatics begin with an exercise program of light aerobic or walking movements while seated in a chair.

Others start with easy aerobics, walking or gentle swimming. (Preferably in an outdoor pool, lake or ocean because pool chemicals aggravate asthma indoors) for about 5-10 minutes. If you experience discomfort slow down or stop.

Used pursed breathing when exercising. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth with lip pursed as though whistling.

Cold air can induce asthma. If you exercise in the cold, cover your nose and mouth with a scarf or bandana to warm the air before you breath it.

Over time you should be able to build up to about a half hour of moderately intense exercise.

With a little patience and persistence, many asthmatics can lead normally active lives and may eventually reduce the severity of their asthma.

Send your Moving Free with Mirabai questions to: askmirabai@movingfree.com