COPD and Exercise: How Physical Activity Can Benefit Your Lung Health

Physical activity and a healthy lifestyle are beneficial for everyone, but for people living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), exercise is especially important. As a matter of fact, it's one of the most effective tools for managing COPD, second only to the vital step of quitting smoking.

Exercise for COPD patients can help enhance breathing capabilities and provide a much-needed energy boost. However, it is crucial to start any exercise plan under the guidance of your healthcare provider. They can help determine where a good starting point might be to make your exercises as helpful as possible. They'll also teach you effective breathing and coughing techniques to aid you during your physical activity sessions.

While it may be tempting to not exercise when breathing is difficult, adopting an inactive lifestyle could negatively impact your overall wellbeing. Inactivity can lead to less muscle strength and also impact your cardiac health, leading to shortness of breath and low energy levels. Regular physical activity can optimize the functioning of your heart, lungs, and muscles, which will allow you to accomplish more with less effort. Regularly being physically active is one of the best things you can do to help keep you healthy and out of hospital.

Exercising doesn’t need to be scary. Simple exercises like walking can make a significant difference in your fitness level. Make a point to prioritize exercise; even little activity is better than none, and small steps can often lead to large improvements over time.

Exercise isn't only about increasing the length of your life; it's about enhancing the quality of your life, particularly when living with COPD. So, take that first step towards better health, breathe easier, and rediscover the joy of an active, fulfilling life.

For an assisted approach and guided education, consider enrolling in BreatheSuite's Virtual Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program (vPR). This 10-week program, recommended for most COPD patients, is facilitated by our respiratory coaches and physical therapists. They offer valuable information on effective exercise techniques, COPD management (including guidance on nutrition and energy conservation), and useful breathing, coughing, and inhaler techniques.

Introducing BreatheSuite's Virtual Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program (vPR) – a place where individuals with COPD can come together to share their experiences, offer mutual support, and inspire one another. Unlike traditional programs held in hospitals or clinics in larger cities, BreatheSuite's vPR is entirely conducted from the comfort of your own home! To discover more about this innovative program, visit us at www.breathesuite.com and consult your pulmonologist to see if it's the right fit for you. Join our Facebook group at Arizona COPD Support for a supportive community experience, and if you have any questions about the program, feel free to reach out to us at +1 855-394-2531. Embrace the power of virtual support and rehabilitation with BreatheSuite!