Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive disease that makes it difficult to breathe. It can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness on your chest and other symptoms. Many people are under the impression that they shouldn’t workout because it’s bad for them, but this isn’t true.
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Before starting any type of exercise program, talk to your doctor. They will tell you if it’s safe to exercise and even recommend an exercise routine. Make sure you ask your doctor everything you need to know before starting, such as the amount of time you should exercise each day, the type of exercises you can do and when you should take your medicine when you’re exercising.
Benefits of Exercise
- Improves circulation
- Promotes better use of oxygen
- Builds energy levels
- Strengthens your heart and cardiovascular system
- Lowers blood pressure
- Strengthens bones
- Helps maintain a healthy weight
- Improves sleep
- Improves muscles and strength
Your doctor can recommend a variety of exercises that you can do, without becoming too tired. COPD is a progressive disease, which means that the symptoms and the ability to breathe may get more difficult as you age, which is why it’s important to talk to your doctor.
There are some things to consider before starting an exercise program, such as your breathing, which should be your number one priority. If you haven’t exercised in a while, make sure you gradually increase your activity level. Don’t try to do fast movements too fast because that might cause you to lose your breath.
Start by stretching out. By stretching out your arms and legs before you exercise, this helps prepare your muscles for activity and it helps prevent injuries. Stretching also helps you move better and be more flexible.
Choose an activity that is recommended by your doctor and something that you enjoy. Do you prefer to work out alone or with a group of people? Sometimes it’s good to exercise with others because they can help motivate you to exercise, but don’t compete with them because they are at a different fitness and health level than you are.
Many people with COPD choose a cardiovascular exercise program like walking, jogging, jumping rope, riding their bicycle or aerobics. This exercise strengthens the heart and lungs, and improves the way you breathe and use oxygen.
Make sure you begin slow and that you take the necessary precautions to not overexert yourself. Exercise is something that everyone should be doing to keep healthy. Find what works for you and don’t be afraid, test your limits and work yourself up because exercise helps keep you healthier.
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