People with chronic lung disease may find exercise makes them short of breath, so they tend to avoid it. Exercise training can result in improvement in your quality of life, exercise capacity, and respiratory muscle strength. Some hospitals offer rehabilitation facilities, and there are several private facilities as well.
A pulmonary rehab program can help you regain control over your life, provide a social opportunity, and improve your overall quality of life. However, before beginning any exercise program, you must speak with your healthcare provider to ensure your chosen program is safe. If there are reasons preventing you from doing specific exercises, your doctor can discuss alternative exercises that may better suit you.
Here are a few things to remember when starting any exercise program.
Protect yourself
- Keep up with your Covid vaccines, including boosters.
- Influenza vaccine annually
- Pneumonia vaccine as directed by your healthcare provider
- Take all your prescribed respiratory medications.
Follow the CDC masking guidelines
Know Your Limits
When you begin your exercise plan, you may quickly become fatigued but don’t get discouraged. Consistent exercise routines help build endurance. This endurance will help you exercise longer with less effort.
Set Goals
Exercise satisfaction is attained by setting a reachable goal and working towards it. The therapists at the rehabilitation facility will evaluate your fitness level and put you on a program that suits you. Identifying and focusing on goals helps when you feel discouraged.
Types Of Exercise
There are three types of exercises that you can incorporate into your exercise routine
- Flexibility exercisesStretching your neck, shoulders, and legs will help you improve your range of motion and posture.
- Endurance exercises like walking, biking, and swimming these exercises help you with performing your activities of daily living.
- Strength-training exercises like lifting weights or working with stretchbands help you to perform daily activities, such as housework or mowing the lawn.
Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
How Exercise Can Help COPD Patients – Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/exercise-and-copd-914974
Coronavirus Face Masks: Types & When to Use – Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/coronavirus-face-masks-what-you-need-to-know