Asthma Friendly Activities & Sports
Thursday, March 23rd, 2006Kids and adults with asthma can participate in just about any activity they want, with their doctors permission of course. Once asthma is under control there is really no limit to the things an asthmatic can do. The exception to this rule however, would be activities that include triggers to the persons asthmatic symptoms. For instance if dust and mold trigger your child’s asthma you would not want to let them make a day out of jumping in piles of leaves.
The one activity that many medical professionals feel is the most asthma friendly is swimming. Why swimming? Swimming is very low impact, it helps tone upper body muscles which can help breathing, the humid environment helps keep airways moist and it allows asthmatics to control the rate and depth of their breathing.
An indoor heated, non-chlorinated pool is the best place for an asthmatic to swim. Swimming in cold water or on cool days with low air temperatures is not recommended.
Other than swimming most any sport is appropriate for an asthmatic assuming that it allows rest, allows participants to get plenty of fluids to drink & allows an asthmatic to safely stop the activity if they do get short of breath or begin to develop asthmatic symptoms. As always you should consult your physician before beginning any exercise program. Talk to your doctor, pick an activity that you or your child is interested in and go have fun. Parents of asthmatic kids will want to be sure that the coach or instructor of the activity is aware of the symptoms of asthma and what they should do if an attack occurs during the activity.
Buteyko Breathing is excellent for helping people with an active lifestyle. It controls their breathing to provide optimum performance in all sports and take control of their lifestyle naturally.