It ain't easy bein' wheezy

Asthma effects all ages and genders, causing obstruction of the airways causing wheezing, chest tightness and coughing. It is very important to take these things into consideration not only for safety but for comfort throughout the program.

Exercise induced asthma can be avoided by paying attention to climate, intensity of exercise and a proper warm up. Cool and humid environments may provoke exercise induced asthma as well as allergens, constant vigorous activity and the chemical presence around swimming pools. A proper warm up gives the body a chance to increase the time between episodes and exercise intensity should be alternated between light and vigorous.

During exercise, an inhaler should be readily available for potential episodes.

FITT FOR AEROBIC

Frequency: 3-5 days per week

Intensity: Begin with moderate and increase to vigorous if tolerated well

Time: Progressively increase to at least 30 minutes per day

Type: Running, cycling, swimming, etc

FITT FOR RESISTANCE

Frequency: 2-3 days per week

Intensity: Start with 60-70% of 1RM, increasing to 80% of 1RM

Time: 2-4 sets of 8-12 reps. Anything over 14 reps is endurance training

Type: Free weight, body weight, resistance bands, pulley system

FITT FOR FLEXIBILITY

Frequency: 2-3 days per week; preferably daily

Intensity: To the point of slight discomfort

Time: 10-30 seconds, 2-4 times

Type: Static, dynamic, PNF or assisted stretching

**ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing & Prescription - 10th edition**