Asthma: Breathing training with adapted physical activity

Why exercise if you have asthma?

For many years, physical activity was contraindicated for asthma patients. “We exempted patients from sports, which was a mistake,” explains Professor Kolas Cherakyan, pulmonologist at the Foch Hospital (Paris). “Today we tell them that they need to exercise because it is part of the therapeutic treatment and has many benefits. » Whose virtues are similar to the general population. “Especially in terms of improving mood, cardiovascular health, and preventing chronic diseases. APA is by definition tailored to the patient’s medical condition because it is performed by trained professionals. »

It is part of therapeutic treatment and has many benefits.

As long as asthma is well controlled, the patient can engage in any type of physical activity, even at high intensity. “It is important to listen to your body and not go beyond its limits. In the event of an asthma attack or lack of control, it is preferable to focus on low-intensity exercise until you regain good control of your condition.

When physical activity breathes new life

Professor Bruno Crestani, Head of the Department of Pulmonology at the Bichat Hospital (Paris), is President of the Fondation du Souffle. “The foundation, recognized as a public benefit, fights respiratory diseases through its three missions: funding research, raising awareness and offering social care assistance.” For this respiratory specialist, “breath symbolizes life. A newborn’s first cry is his breath as he comes into the world and suddenly fills his lungs. This is also the last moment when life leaves with the last exhalation. And when it ends, we say we are out of breath. This is a general term to describe difficulty breathing. »

In patients with asthma, APA helps restore breathing. “Scientific evidence shows that APA not only helps control asthma, but also leads to noticeable improvements in respiratory function. It also helps improve the quality of life. This is why it is so important to educate and inform patients, their communities, doctors, sports clubs and educators about APA. We must break down the preconceived notion that certain physical activities are contraindicated for asthmatics. »

Voice of patients

Thierry Denay, 44 years old, works as an engineer for a large company in Brest. “I have suffered from asthma since I was a teenager. The disease gradually worsened until it became serious in 2000,” he testifies. Despite the severity of his illness, Thierry enrolled in APA courses. “I chose the home program first. Classes began with a gradual warm-up to prevent breathing problems and focus on strength training and chest opening. Gradually I was able to start walking and doing other physical activities again. The sessions helped me regain ease of breathing, which had a positive impact on my quality of life. Physical activity has become an integral part of my weekly routine, contributing to my physical and mental well-being. »