If you’ve been diagnosed with a lung condition you may think it best to avoid physical activity, that it may make your symptoms worse. But in reality the opposite is true: staying active is one of the most effective ways to manage your symptoms, improve your overall health and even enhance your quality of life.

Even if exercise feels daunting at first, with the right approach, it’s possible to make safe and enjoyable activities part of your daily routine.

Why does exercise matter if you have a lung condition?

Regular physical activity isn’t just about fitness—it’s about supporting your body in ways that directly improve respiratory health and general wellbeing. Key benefits include:

  • Improved oxygen utilisation: Your body becomes more efficient at using the oxygen you take in

  • Stronger respiratory muscles: Exercises, especially those targeting core and breathing muscles, can make your breathing easier

  • Less breathlessness: Consistent movement can help improve fitness and endurance

  • Mental health improvements: Physical activity is widely recognised as a tool for reducing stress, anxiety and depression, which can often worsen breathing difficulties

  • Better sleep: Exercise can help you fall asleep faster and improve the quality of your rest

  • Increased energy levels: Moving more can combat the fatigue often associated with chronic conditions

The link between activity and long-term health

People with long-term health conditions are twice as likely to be inactive compared to others. With 15 million people in the UK living with chronic health conditions, this inactivity can lead to a reduced quality of life.

At Air Physiotherapy, we see first hand how tailored physical activity can transform lives, helping patients with conditions like asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis and breathing pattern disorders regain confidence in their abilities and improve their symptoms.

Some top tips on the types of activity you may want to explore

Before you start any activity, you should check with your doctor. You could explore:

  • Aerobic exercises: Low-impact activities like walking, swimming or cycling can improve cardiovascular health without overloading your system. Just make sure you’re not over-exerting yourself

  • Resistance training: Using light weights or resistance bands can strengthen muscles, including those involved in breathing

  • Stretching: Incorporate stretches for relaxation and flexibility, which can also serve as a warm-up or cool-down

  • Breathing exercises: Techniques like diaphragmatic breathing or pursed-lip breathing help reduce exertional breathlessness

  • Alternative activities: Yoga, tai chi or singing not only support fitness but also encourage better breathing control and mindfulness

Guidelines for safe exercise

Safety is paramount, especially if you’re managing a lung condition. Follow these tips to get started:

  • Start small: Begin with 10–20 minutes of light exercise and gradually build up to 30 minutes, 3–4 times a week

  • Warm up and cool down: Always prepare your body for movement and wind down afterward to avoid strain

  • Monitor your breathing: Use a pace that allows you to talk comfortably without feeling overly breathless

Overcoming common challenges

It’s normal to feel apprehensive about starting an exercise routine when you’re managing a respiratory condition. Here’s how to ease into it:

  • Make it enjoyable: Choose activities you like—this increases the chances you’ll stick with them. Exercise with friends or family to make it more social and fun

  • Listen to your body: On good days, push yourself slightly more. On tougher days, take it easier but aim for some movement during the day

  • Incorporate activity into daily life: Take the stairs, go for a short walk or try gentle stretching during breaks. Every small effort adds up.

  • Stay consistent: Even low-intensity activities like a brisk 10-minute walk daily can yield benefits. Use apps like the NHS Active 10 app which records the number of steps you to track progress

When to stop and seek advice

While exercise is beneficial, it’s crucial to recognise when it’s time to pause or seek medical advice. Stop exercising and consult your healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Chest pain or dizziness

  • Nausea, fever, or signs of infection

  • Worsening breathlessness or other symptoms

If you’re unsure where to start, booking in for a Breathing MOT is a great place to start and can provide tailored guidance.

Book in for an initial assessment today!

Living with a lung condition doesn’t mean giving up on physical activity. Instead, it’s about finding the right approach to movement that aligns with your body’s needs and capabilities.

With time and the right support, staying active will become an empowering part of your daily routine.

Click here or call 0207 971 1464.