Tips For Running With Asthma
Tips For Running With Asthma…What You Must Know Before You Begin A Running Program:
Just because you have asthma doesn’t mean you can’t run. In fact, some of the worlds most famous athletes have asthma. Marathon runner Alberto Salazar, former NBA star Dennis Rodman…even track and field Olympic Gold Medalist Jackie-Joyner Kersee …all have asthma. Yet they were able to have very successful careers in spite of their severe asthma.
How?….By controlling their asthma.
When you have your asthma under control…you can develop a running program to build up your stamina and enjoy the benefits of running.
If you are using an inhaler more than twice a week…than your asthma is not under control.
Here are some valuable tips for running with asthma:
Consult With Your Doctor Before Beginning Any Running Program
The first step to gaining control over your asthma is to discuss it with your doctor first. Your doctor can determine if your asthma is allergy or exercise induced. You will need to know what triggers your asthma before you start running.
Start Slowly
Don’t try to run a marathon! Take your time and work up to running farther and for longer periods of time. Your body will have to adjust.
Run Indoors
During cold winter months … a blast of cold air in your lungs can trigger an asthma attack. The best solution would be to run indoors on a treadmill. During the summer if you have seasonal allergies consider running indoors. If you must run outside wear a protective mask.
If You’re A Smoker…Stop!
It may be easier said than done. But choosing to stop smoking can go along way to keeping your asthma under control. Smoking affects your breathing. Stop smoking and you will breathe much better and your ability to run farther will increase over time.
Always Have Your Inhaler With You
If while running you begin to have an asthma attack…having your inhaler with you can save your life. Never run without your inhaler. Make sure you can access your inhaler quickly. Many inhalers can be attached to your clothing via a clip. There are also inhaler that can be worn around your neck.
The Perfect Time To Run Outside
A rainy day with little or no wind is better for running for a person with seasonal asthma. The rain washes away the pollen dust and with little to no wind there’s less worry about pollen blowing around.
Take A Shower!
When you run when pollen is high you can end up with much of it on your skin and clothing. Take a shower immediately to remove any pollen that may be on your skin after your run. Make it a routine to remove your clothes in a specific area of your home where they will be washed asap. This will lessen the possibility of leaving pollen dust all over your home.
These tips for running with asthma are a good start to help you enjoy running safely. Please consult with your doctor before using these tips. Your doctor can create a more specific plan that is best for you.
