There's a common misconception that people with asthma can't (or shouldn't) exercise. However, research shows that exercise is possible – and often recommended – for most people with asthma.

Imagine for a moment that you’re in high school. It's spring, and you're outdoors playing your favorite sport. You’re playing well; your teammates are happy. Suddenly, your chest tightens, and your mouth goes dry. You put your hands over your head to open your airways, but it feels like no oxygen is getting through. Then you’re hit by a wave of tiredness.

That was my experience playing tennis in high school. This would happen to me right at the peak of a match. Earlier in the game, I could run across the court and back again. A short time later, that seemed difficult, if not impossible.

It was a clear sign my asthma was kicking in full force. I was also struggling with shortness of breath, chest tightening, and rapid breathing.

My experience as a young athlete is not uncommon. Roughly 90 percent of people living with asthma experience symptoms following or during exercise.

So, the assumption that people with asthma can't (or shouldn't) exercise hasn't come from nowhere. On the other hand, studies and reviews have suggested for a while that post-exercise symptoms are linked to asthma treatment or management issues rather than exercise in itself. When asthma is well-controlled, exercise should be possible and encouraged.

What the experts say

Exercise is beneficial for your overall health and can also help with asthma. A review of studies in the Respiratory Medicine Journal suggests that a lack of physical activity can worsen asthma control.

For example, some people with respiratory illnesses may avoid exercise to prevent breathing problems. However, research indicates that even light aerobic exercise, like walking three times a week, can improve respiratory disease symptoms and lung function.

In some cases, limiting physical activity is the safest thing to do. For example, it's may not a good time to exercise if:

• Your asthma symptoms aren't well controlled
• You're experiencing a symptom flare or had a recent asthma attack
• An activity may expose you to triggers like pollen or pollution

With a good plan to manage your symptoms, you can take charge of your physical activity and get better results.

The Department of Health and Human Services recommends 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, such as “brisk walking” or “fast dancing,” plus a muscle strengthening activity at least twice a week, such as lifting weights or push-ups. Fitness isn't one-size-fits-all, and you don't need to do CrossFit to enjoy the benefits of regular exercise.

Depending on the season, you could try walking or running outdoors or do these activities indoors at your local gym. Other types of exercise include biking, water aerobics, canoeing, or martial arts. The idea is that you’re moving for a consistent amount of time each week — so pick something you like to do.

4 tips for exercising with asthma 

1. Use your doctor's guidance to prepare properly

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), about 28 million Americans are living with asthma. 39.6% of adults diagnosed with the disease had an asthma attack in 2021. Research suggests that 30% to 70% of asthma patients in the USA do not follow their treatment plans. This includes forgetting to take meds, not taking them as directed, or not filling prescriptions because of cost.

Keeping symptoms under control can open many doors for people living with asthma. So, first things first: Make sure to use your medications as directed. If your current treatment plan isn’t working well, you should discuss other options with your healthcare provider.

2. Find a good warm-up

Before I start any workout, I engage in a five-minute warm-up by jogging on the treadmill or doing speed squats. Asthma symptoms can start 5 to 20 minutes into a workout, so starting slowly and increasing the intensity over time is important.

And don't forget about the cool-down phase! A few minutes of walking or light stretching can help you cool down from your workout, which may help ease asthma symptoms after exercise.

3. Take enough breaks

I never realized the importance of taking breaks until I overdid it one day. I sprinted on the treadmill and felt my chest and airway constrict. Even so, I thought, “No, I can do it!”

As a result, my recovery from that sprint was difficult, and I needed my rescue inhaler. There's pushing yourself, and then there’s knowing yourself. I could have sprinted at a slower pace and achieved the same results without knocking the wind out of me.

I'm not saying that all forms of exercise come with limits  — there are plenty of professional athletes with asthma. That said, you need to respect and understand the level of physical activity that is appropriate for you. As you get used to your workouts, gradually challenge yourself in a safe manner with guidance from your healthcare provider.

4. Vary your workouts

I don't sprint every day, and neither should you — unless that’s your passion and you know it's safe. You can exercise almost anywhere at any time. Your fitness doesn't have to depend on an elaborate workout with multiple sets or specialized gym equipment.

Since I live in a city, walking has become a source of exercise when I don’t get to the gym. Our local Target is about two miles from my apartment, and I walk there since it's an uphill road. If I don't buy too much, which is almost impossible, I'll walk back with a few bags or bring a backpack to carry everything. That adds up to about 60 minutes of physical activity, surpassing the daily recommendation.

If you don't live in a city, you can also workout at home. You can find many workouts online that don't need much, if any, equipment.

Workouts such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT)  keep things varied and have short rest periods. There are a lot of resources out there to find modified workouts depending on your fitness level. It's about getting creative and moving in ways that work for you and your schedule.

The takeaway

Over the years, I’ve played tennis, soccer, and boxing, even with asthma. I always discuss with my doctor how to manage it, since different activities can impact me differently.

Working with your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program is always important. They can help you determine which exercise types are best for you. Remember, the vital thing is learning to move with purpose and a plan.

The information presented is solely for educational purposes, not as specific advice for the evaluation, management, or treatment of any condition.

The individual(s) who have written and created the content and whose images appear in this article have been paid by Teva Pharmaceuticals for their contributions. This content represents the opinions of the contributor and does not necessarily reflect those of Teva Pharmaceuticals. Similarly, Teva Pharmaceuticals does not review, control, influence, or endorse any content related to the contributor's websites or social media networks. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes and should not be considered medical advice or recommendations. Consult a qualified medical professional for diagnosis and before beginning or changing any treatment regimen.

NPS-ALL-NP-01448 JANUARY 2025