HEALTH INSIGHTS

Exercising with Chronic Lung Disease: Keep Moving!

December 18, 2017

Exercising with Chronic Lung Disease: Keep Moving!

Woman walking up stairs.

Think about what you can do to make exercise a way of life. How can you work it into your daily routine? How can you make it more enjoyable? The suggestions below may lead to some ideas of your own.

Make exercise part of your day…

 Start your day with some simple stretches before you get out of bed.

 Go to your favorite store and walk up and down the long aisles.

 While watching TV, stretch your arms and legs.

 Park your car a little farther from a store and walk the rest of the way.

 Take the stairs instead of waiting for the elevator.

 Add up the minutes of moderate activity you do all day.

Try your own ideas: ________________________________________

…And make it fun!

 Visit with friends by walking around the neighborhood together.

 Take your dog for a walk in the park.

 Walk through a museum, mall, or zoo with your family.

 Bowl, fish, or golf with friends.

 Put a photo of your kids or grandkids near your exercise spot for motivation.

 Read a book or magazine while you ride an exercise bike.

 Listen to a comedy tape while you exercise.

Try your own ideas: ________________________________________

Updated:  

December 18, 2017

Sources:  

Reis, A. Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Joint American College of Chest Physicians/American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Evidence-based Clinical Practice Guidelines. Chest. 2007;131(5):s4-42., Qaseem, A. Diagnosis and Management of Stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Clinical Practice Guideline Update from the American College of Physicians, et al. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2011;155(3):s179-91.

Reviewed By:  

Berry, Judith, PhD, APRN,Blaivas, Allen J., DO,Image reviewed by StayWell art team.