How exercise can improve COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) is an umbrella term for progressive lung diseases such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and refractory asthma. It affects more than 14 million adults in the United States, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. It’s also a leading cause of death.

Many people with COPD don’t know they have it. The symptoms, like wheezing and shortness of breath, worsen over time. COPD makes it harder to breathe and makes everyday activities challenging. There are some treatments available, like rehabilitation to increase stamina and improve lung function, medication to control symptoms and slow further lung damage, and sometimes lung surgery to improve breathing function. Another way to help relieve COPD symptoms is through exercise.

How exercise can ease COPD symptoms

COPD symptoms usually arise once the lungs are damaged. Symptoms may include:

• Wheezing
• Tightness in the chest
• Frequent coughing
• Depression and anxiety
• Frequent respiratory infections

With COPD, there is a limited amount of oxygen in the bloodstream. Exercising helps strengthen the cardiovascular system’s ability to carry oxygen throughout the body and helps make better use of that oxygen. When oxygen flows more efficiently through the body, your COPD symptoms may decrease. Exercising when you have COPD can have many benefits, including:

• Reduced blood pressure
• Increased endurance
• Improved muscle tone
• Weight loss or management
• Better sleep
• Improved mood
• Less stress

To enjoy the benefits of exercising with COPD, you must learn proper breathing techniques and the exercises that work best with your symptoms.

Exercising with COPD: Breathing tips to try

One of the most important aspects of exercising with COPD is learning to control your breathing. The COPD Foundation recommends exercising with pursed lips: breathe in through your nose, purse your lips like you’re blowing out a candle, and breathe out slowly.

When exercising, you can also practice diaphragmatic breathing, in which you use your abdominal muscles to breathe more deeply and help empty your lungs. Once you learn the technique, it can be easier to breathe during workouts and everyday activities. The technique strengthens your breathing muscles and allows more oxygen to enter the body.

If you’re working out and feel winded or out of breath, your body needs more oxygen. Stop what you’re doing, sit down, and focus on slowing your breath with the techniques above. If you often feel winded during exercise, contact your primary care physician or other healthcare provider (HCP) to help create a new workout regimen.

Best exercises for people with COPD

Simple aerobic exercises like walking, biking, stretching, skating, water aerobics, and rowing can be helpful for people with COPD. They help strengthen the heart and lungs and improve the body’s ability to use oxygen.

Tai Chi, a traditional Chinese exercise that combines flowing movements, deep breathing, and mindfulness, is a good option, too. The practice is considered to be meditative, helps you maintain physical balance, strengthens the core, improves posture, and reduces stress. In general, try exercising around 20 to 30 minutes three to four times a week. Work slowly and don’t jump into something right away. Be sure to warm up and cool down to avoid injury.

If you have COPD, talk to an HCP before jumping into an exercise regimen. When it comes to exercising with COPD, it’s best to start slow and work your way up.