Before starting a new exercise activity, talk with your healthcare provider. You can set realistic exercise goals together and create a plan that suits your condition. Use the COPD Action and Management Plan to review any activities you should avoid and the steps to take if you experience symptoms.=
Benefits of exercise for those living with COPD.
Regular exercise improves your symptoms and overall health. By including physical activity into your daily routine, you can experience:
- Better circulation, supporting better oxygen delivery throughout your body
- Enhanced mood
- Increased energy levels and stamina while reducing fatigue
- Reduced anxiety by lowering stress levels
- Strengthened respiratory muscles that help with breathing
Exercises to help keep you healthy.
Many exercises benefit patients with COPD. Using oxygen while exercising and practicing proper breathing techniques make exercising easier. Consider these exercises, which are generally safe and effective:
Aerobic exercise—walk, bike, and swim to improve heart and lung function
Resistance training—weights and resistance bands to improve strength
Stretching—hold gentle movements to improve flexibility
Also, find safe places to exercise. Look for parks, community centers, or indoor gyms that provide a controlled environment. Consider joining a local COPD support group or exercise class designed for those with respiratory conditions, where you can find support and guidance from trained professionals.
Stay safe while exercising.
While exercise is beneficial, knowing when it’s unsafe is important. Avoid physical activity if you have a respiratory infection, experience severe shortness of breath, or during extreme weather conditions like when it’s very hot, cold, or humid. Pay attention to the air quality index, too. You should stop exercising if you:
- Begin to feel exhausted
- Experience difficulty breathing
- Feel dizzy or lightheaded
- Have chest pain or pressure
Always listen to your body and talk to your provider if you have questions about your symptoms or exercise safety.
Need help finding a provider to help manage your COPD? Visit selecthealth.org/find-care or call our Select Health Member Advocates team for support and guidance at 800-515-2220. TTY users call 711.
- Weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The content included in these blogs is for your information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Additionally, the information in these blogs does not guarantee benefits. To review your benefits, please reference your plan materials or call Member Services at 800-538-5038, weekdays, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Saturdays, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., closed Sundays. TTY users call 711.
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