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Exercises For Asthma: Asthma primarily affects the lungs and causes difficulty in breathing. Managing the risks associated with asthma can be done through maintaining good lifestyle practices. Stress management techniques, a well-balanced diet and exercise can help reduce the symptoms of asthma. Practising breathing exercises regularly can support lung health. Other forms of physical exercise can also aid in overall well-being. However, it is important to consult a medical professional and warm up slowly before starting with exercise. 

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr Syed Abdul Aleem Consultant Pulmonologist CARE Hospitals Musheerabad listed some easy and effective exercises for asthma patients. Some exercises that can aid with asthma are listed below. 

Easy Exercises For Asthma Patients

Walking

This low-impact exercise can also be carried out indoors – on a treadmill to avoid outdoor triggers. Walking is less intense in nature and pace can be controlled. When walking outdoors, consider air quality index, pollen levels or other pollutants that may trigger asthma.

Yoga and Pilates

These exercises are a great choice to focus on breathing movements and to improve the flexibility of the body. It also aids in improved relaxation and helps manage stress levels which is beneficial for asthmatic patients.

ALSO READ: World Asthma Day 2024: Doctor Explains Common Environmental Triggers Of Asthma

Tai Chi

Tai Chi is a gentle martial art form that originated in China. It incorporates deep breathing techniques with controlled and intentional movements. This can also help in reducing stress.

Swimming

Exercises For Asthma (Image Credits: Canva)

Water-based exercises in a controlled environment like an indoor swimming pool are suggested for asthma patients. Swimming benefits the respiratory muscles and builds up strength in the body. However, it is important to check chlorine sensitivity and avoid high levels of chlorine for some individuals.

Cycling

Cycling helps maintain weight, provides cardiovascular benefits and strengthens muscles. Cycling improves oxygen circulation to the body as the heart rate rises with exercise. This can be a good choice of exercise for individuals diagnosed with asthma.

Breathing exercises

Since asthma affects the respiratory system, it is crucial to carry out different breathing techniques to reduce difficulty in breathing. With breathing exercises the risk of cardiovascular disease can also be reduced. A few breathing exercises to practice include –

Buteyko breathing: Developed by Konstantin Buteyko promotes slow breathing to combat hyperventilation. This technique has been shown to reduce asthma symptoms.

Pursed lip breathing: This technique involves inhaling air through the nose, holding in pursed form (like we hold while whistling) and exhaling through the mouth. Shortness of breath can be improved through this technique.

The Papworth method: This method combines several techniques and focuses more on breathing from the diaphragm.

ALSO READ: Does Living In Urban Areas Make You Asthma-Prone? Expert Has THIS To Say



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