Try These Exercises If You Suffer From COPD

A common misconception that people have about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder or COPD is that once experienced, the disease renders the person unable to perform physical activity. However, this is simply not true. Aerobic and cardiovascular exercises do go a long way in improving common symptoms of COPD such as shortness of breath.

People who tend to neglect physical activity due to their COPD usually suffer from a drop in muscle mass and cardiovascular function. Due to this, they find it difficult to breathe when completing even the simplest activity.

The exercises mentioned below are great for people who suffer from COPD. These exercises help strengthen the heart which benefits COPD patients in the long run.

Walking

This is a low impact activity which allows the body to build endurance, strengthen muscles and use oxygen effectively. The addition of walking to a person’s daily routine has been suggested by a multitude of doctors for people who suffer from COPD. This exercise is a great way for a COPD patient to develop a tolerance towards physical activity. Additionally, walking is a great way to boost health, lower blood pressure and improve mental health. Stress is often the cause of the worsening of symptoms of COPD. Walking helps reduce self by metabolizing the 'stress chemicals' such as norepinephrine, epinephrine and cortisol.

Basic Breathing Exercises

Practicing basic breathing exercises regularly is a great way to ensure that an individual does not overexert himself when completing basic activities. Breathing exercises also help in strengthening the respiratory muscles which enable to get more oxygen during breathing. It is often advised that the individual tries to learn and practice basic breathing exercises such as deep breathing, pursed-lip breathing, huff cough and coordinated breathing to give him/her relief from their symptoms.

Yoga

It is important that the individual consults his or her doctor before they start doing yoga. It is also vital that the individual ensures that the instructor is a trained professional with knowledge of how to help enthusiasts who also suffer from COPD. People who have COPD are usually offered modified yoga sessions which mainly focus on stationary breathing exercises such as asanas and not on physical exertion. Including yoga into one's routine can help the person better handle any breathing problems that they may face in the future.

Swimming

Swimming is a great exercise for those who suffer from COPD. Being gentle on the joints, this exercise is great for an individual's heart and lungs. An added strain on the heart is usually a side effect of COPD. Due to the lack of oxygen present in the blood, the heart is forced to work overtime in order to make up for the loss of oxygen. Swimming regularly helps accustom the heart to putting in the extra effort. Water aerobics is also a great way to exercise without putting too much pressure on your joints.

Low Impact Aerobics

Low impact aerobic exercises involve moving large muscles in a rhythmic fashion. This allows your body to better utilize its oxygen intake. A few examples of low impact aerobics include jogging, cycling etc. It is suggested that the individual starts slowly and picks up speed as they continue doing their exercise. Once out of breath, the person should continue with the exercise at a slower pace while breathing in deeply. Low impact aerobic exercises are great for improving the circulation of oxygen in your body. These exercises also help combat one’s shortness of breath.

Resistance Training

Resistance training is great for the heart. Minor exercises like arm curls and arm raises help strengthen your arm muscles. While getting professional help is suggested, home workouts do not require special weights. One can replace these weights with something as simple as bottled water.

Contrary to popular belief, suffering from a respiratory condition such as COPD does not leave a person unable to do any work. If anything, by including physical activity into your daily routine, you will be better able to take care of yourself in the future.

Want to know what the differences between asthma and COPD are, please read The Difference Between Asthma And COPD.