Exercise and Activity
If your asthma is under control you should be able to do any sport or exercise that you enjoy. Wheezing, tightness of the chest or coughing during or after exercise or activity shows that this is a trigger of your asthma. However, it's better to control your asthma than to avoid exercise. If your asthma symptoms worsen during or after exercise it could be a sign that your asthma is poorly controlled.
What to do:
- Make sure the people you are exercising with know you have asthma.
- Always make sure you use your reliever inhaler (blue) immediately before you warm up.
- Always start the session with warm-up exercises(15-20 minutes)
- Avoid triggers if possible (see above)
- Always make sure to bring your reliever medication with you and that it is easily accessible
- Always ensure to warm down after exercise
What are the best types of exercise for people with asthma?
Some of our top athletes in Ireland have asthma. They make sure their asthma is well controlled and because of this they are able to compete at a national and international level. If your asthma is under control you should be able to do any sport or exercise that you enjoy. For a gentle introduction to exercise you might like to try some of the following exercise options;
- Yoga (helps to relax the body and improve your breathing technique)
- Fitness classes involving short periods of aerobic exercise
- Swimming (however, chemicals used in pools may be a trigger for some people).
Some sports and activities, for example, scuba diving, climbing, hiking or skiing at high altitudes, can cause problems for some people with asthma. Speak to your doctor if you are thinking about doing any of these activities.
People involved in competitive sport should ensure that their medication complies with the current regulations of their sporting bodies. For further information please see our Factsheet on Asthma & Exercise.
* For more information regarding asthma and exercise please our Sports & Exercise with Asthma page
