Morning everyone.
We all know that exercising more is good for everyone, it is such an effort though sometime isn’t it ? PR courses don’t accept us until we have MRC level 3 on the breathing scale and even then there is a long wait to get on a course.
I enjoy yoga and a local Active Balance class every week. It helps me feel better, breathe better, and the body works better for me.
Am wondering what would help to motivate you exercise more? What help would you like to do that ?
Go well.
Pauline
Hi Pauline, I would like a class to go to that was specifically for people with breathing difficulties. Just before lockdown I had a very cruel and distressing thing happen to me, which I still grieve over now. Then came lockdown and then a worsening of my health. Plus I live somewhere I don't feel secure. This has all turned me from a busy 'get on with it' person into a very anxious and almost reclusive one. I don't feel strong enough to join a 'general' exercise class but feel I could go to a class for lung health (I know from the forum that if people can't breathe easily it makes them anxious) so think I would feel more relaxed about going to one because people would understand. The nearest one to me (Breathe Easy) is a 2hour bus journey away! Would love one in my village. Sorry if this sounds as though I'm looking for sympathy - I'm not but just wanted to explain fully. Thank you for reading this. 🙂❤️xxx
Hi Nula,
So sorry to read about about things have been for you. It sounds so distressing for you.
Yes I take your point about joining a general class I would struggle with that too. And blimey a group which is 2 hours away is just not achievable is it ?
Would you be able to do something on line ? We have a local ( county wide ) PR maintenance exercise class on line once a week. It began during the pandemic and is still going. It is really amazing. We all exercise within our limits. It does mean that if I have a flare up I can continue to exercise - often from the chair, which helps to keep me going. It is really helpful.
Go well.
Hi Pauline. As a person who also has breathing problems I knew you'd understand and thank you for suggesting the on line class. Will think about it but would really like a local class because for me that would help on two fronts as I need something to make me get back in circulation meeting people again and exercising with people with breathing problems. Thank you for your suggestions and kind words. Take care ❤️xxx
great post! I did do yoga 12 months ago and found a class that was easier they also did Pilates. What is my worst nightmare is a class that’s too fast … and I’m left breathless and can’t keep up - it causes anxiety when I’m breathless so I avoid. It is indeed a huge challenge when we’re breathless to keep going - I know I need to rejoin a class but if it’s too fast I’ll be put off
Hi pepparuby1,
Yes these classes do vary tremendously don't they ? I attend the Yin yoga class via Zoom.... I wouldn't be able to travel to the class very easily, even in the car 14 miles away and so because I appreciate the teacher Zoom suits me really well- she gives lots of options and modifications for everyone! those face to face in the room and on Zoom too.
Naturally via Zoom we can be anywhere!!! Would that work for you ?
Go well.
Brilliant - I think I’d like to to and interact with humans although I saw a Pilates class on zoom and told the guy it wasn’t for me. I will reconsider to get my fitness levels up. Funny I try to walk 3,500 steps a day my daughter kindly told me I should be doing 10k - whaaaat?? Not listening to that. I know covid times my fitness and stamina went down hill as I was always out shopping which I love 😂.
I sometimes go round a garden centre or indoor shopping place to get the steps in but boy oh boy I get breathless.
Certainly take your consideration onboard and I’ll let you know
Hi, thanks.... Wow 3,500 steps a day is good going I reckon. Well done you. I am much better at exercising indoors than outdoors this time of year anyway.
What works for is a mix of exercises, especially with some strength training ( gentle ) mixed in. Have you done a PR course at all ? The PR course is good guide at how exercise can really help.
Do you have a local Respiratory exercise class at all ?
Go well,
No I was offered one ten years ago and I felt it wasn’t where I was at I had much more energy but where I am now nothing!!!I’ll ask next Thursday when I see respiritory nurse
I tried a step aerobics class many years ago and didn't like it as it was hard going!
How's Pepparuby the black panther and Hector getting on?
Baby sends her regards!
I struggle with a lot of yoga full body poses because of limited movement in one leg. Instead I use stretches given me by physios and osteopaths who have treated my back problems over the years. These help a lot.
I’ve recently gone back to using an app for different exercise classes - it’s the Nike Training Club which is free. They do lots of different types - some targeting specific areas of the body, some yoga, high impact, stretching, etc. The upper body strength lesson I use is only 14 mins long so it’s easy to fit into a morning routine of yoga and stretching. I may try others on there too. I still prefer attending a class in person - I think it’s more motivating - but like others I worry about getting too breathless and having to stop. Maybe when Spring arrives I’ll feel more inclined to try something new.
Hi, Oooooooh thank you for that information about the app. Not come across that before and will take a look at it.
Yes I prefer a class as well. more sociable eh than working with an app. However I guess the app is better than nothing ?
Managing breathlessness -we are advised here to keep our breathing in line with Borg breathlessness score of 3-4. That definitely helps and makes it manageable. Pacing is helpful.
Go well.
I've managed to increase my lung function to a point where I've been discharged by the lung tx unit and I believe yoga and pilates have contributed hugely! So that's my motivation! I have found teachers and other class members to be very understanding and supportive and have made good friends. Because I attend daytime classes the majority of us are 'more mature' so most have some difficulties. I am now on a pain management course and that includes excercise too.
Hi, Oh wow what progress you have made, that is wonderful. You must be delighted ? Just goes to show that keeping moving the body really really makes a positive difference doesn't it ?
I hope the pain management course helps you feel more comfortable.
Go well.
Thankyou. 😊 I'm very optimistic that the pain management course will bring benefits. Today we've been in the gym and had a very interesting talk about pain and its complexities. Very tired now though!
I am relatively lucky. I had a heart attack 10 years ago and the Cardiac Rehab nurses urged us to join an exercise group, pointing out that there was one called Gentle Touch, which I indeed joined. Both the instructor and the class members were very laid back and jolly, so everyone did as much or as little as they felt inclined. Sadly that came to an end with covid and, since the gym shares the building with a comprehensive school, I have never dared to go back. I looked for an alternative and found Pilates. That came to an end when I had a fall last year and my balance went. I'm now doing chair Pilates, along with a lot of other older people. It's quite vigorous, surprisingly, but the instructor urges us not to do more than our limitations allow.
Perhaps people could find suitable classes by looking for those for 'seniors'. There are even some based in care homes or retirement villages, which allow non residents to join.
Hi Alberta,
Well yes the pandemic changed so much for many of us didn't it ? I deconditioned considerably during the pandemic. Fabulous though that you are able to do chair Pilates now though.
I so agree about local classes. I know that local councils together with the health folk are providing classes locally under their health and wellbeing role in communities.
There are classes called Active Balance ( I attend the one here ). There is a cardio section and then strength and resilience training, sometimes some balance work. I am sure that has helped my balance which wasn't too bad before but it has definitely improved since I have been attending the class.
Go well.
I do Pilates online. It’s a class I used to attend before covid and then it went online. As I moved away I’ve stuck to the online side. We are encouraged to stick within our limits and it’s not too fast. We have recently started with stretches that open up our lungs and I find that really helpful. Perhaps an online course that concentrates on breathing would be beneficial.
Hi Mooka,
Thanks for responding. Online is great isn't it and so pleased that you find it helpful.
A specialised breathing course you ask ? It's all a bit chicken and egg isn't it. Physical activity has such a big impact on our breathing and the ability for our muscles to use oxygen well. Perhaps we need a combined course ?
Go well.
I do chair yoga via zoom.Before lockdown I was able to get to the hall to participate but since then I can't do that walk, even on oxygen. I find it has helped immensely with the breathing and you don't do any of the exercises if they make you uncomfortable.
Hi PaulineHM , I need help to get out of my home in respect that I have multi joint arthritis , lung problems , sight defect plus a few other issues including overweight and age. Prior to lockdown I was on the commitee of several groups plus face to face arthritis meetings . I feel that many people with chronic health issues need a social outlet in their communities with some means to get there if they are disabled due to health. The type of groups need to be different than in the past , isolation and lonliness is still around. Our local Myton Hospice does breathing help forums as well as Breathe easy in town once a month. Due to reductions in public transport and health issues many cannot get to such groups easily. For instance in our city transport for disabled and special needs as been withdrawn and a new service introduced which is not so reliable I am told. That's just one area of the West Midlands. Taxis are so costly even severely disabled have to think twice about using them. My point being for me and many others , we need changes in transport or bring the facilities to the community please.
Hi Katie,
Yes I agree, local facilities have to be available for many don't they ? My nearest Respiratory Rehab exercise class -offered by the local authority is 12 miles from me. No way of getting there if I don't drive.
I get the impression that quite a few Hospices are offered help with breathing better these days. After all it is the stuff of life isn't it ?
Go well and thank you.
I'm really enjoying joining in Asthma & Lung UK's Feel Good Fridays - seated Zumba classes. Open to anyone with a lung condition via Zoom - just need to register on their website. ☺️
They also do a Breath Easy course which included sessions by one of their helpline respiratory nurses and a respiratory physiotherapist. I found it very helpful as I am waiting for Pulmonary Rehab myself
Oh wow, thanks for letting me know that - haven't come across those Feel Good Fridays!!
Will definitely take a look for that-sounds fun!
Go well.
I enjoy going swimming a few times a week!
I did gentle yoga until the end of 2022 when the teacher stopped the class. It was quite easy to do and everyone was in their 40’s, 50’s and 60’s like me. I didn’t go to another class last year as I started investigations for angina/heart problems and my husband didn’t want me exerting myself in case I had a heart attack! I’m still waiting on a final heart angiogram. I’ve also just been diagnosed with emphysema so still getting my head around that. Go back in August for lung function tests so no idea how bad I am yet. I’ve been doing yoga stretching and breathing exercises at home recently but I’m definitely going to attend another gentle yoga class as the chest clinic told me to keep the yoga up. I do better with others in an actual class, not keen on online. I’m also going to join a gym for the cycling and treadmill exercises. I’m lucky as I live in an area where things are easy to get to. I’ve not been given any breathing exercises to do but found some online. If I’m offered a pulmonary breathing course I’ll definitely attend.
My gentle yoga class closed when Covid and lockdown hit ….most of us in our 60s and 70s .
Looking back to April 2020 I think I contracted Covid before routine tests were available ….painful joints , strange taste , sore toes , fever etc .
But strange shortness of breath …not like asthma SOB …weird
Since then numerous chest infections ….CEV too , so that limited me
I try and do some yoga at home ….my daughter is a Pilates teacher but lives down South .
Hi Pauline, I don't think our respiratory team limit PR courses to people with MRC level 3 breathing. Certainly never heard that so perhaps it varies round the country. Ive done the course twice now. There used to be a maintenance PR group for those who had finished the PR course, but it was done away with during lockdown and has never been reinstated. I really miss it.
In terms of classes, I used to do a tai chi class and loved it. But it got very popular and so many started coming that it didnt feel safe any longer, not enough distance. And that safety is what I need from any class I do. I generally dont mind if others dont have breathing problems as Ive always found people very understanding. But Im pretty terrified of covid and flu as with me they turn to double pneumonia at the drop of a hat and having been hospitalised several times with this and respiratory failure I couldnt bear to repeat the experience which Ive been told I might not survive. So keeping well and avoiding catching stuff are my priorities.
So I exercise by walking from the front to back of the house for 15 minutes most days - this comes to around one kilometer, and when it gets warmer I walk in our town and on the beach. I lift weights at home to cope with the sarcopenia (muscle wastage) that most older people get, and those with copd even more, and particularly to keep my upper body strength up. We live downstairs in a chalet bungalow with a friend living upstairs, and I climb the stairs at least 5 times a day to keep my quadriceps strong. Then various other exercises. What motivates me is the total fear of becoming an invalid - and of course that may await me down the road but the longer I can keep going the better.
Hello there,
Good to hear from you and thank you for responding.
NICE scope reads MRC 3 upwards for inclusion into PR courses. I hear that they may lower it to MRC 2 -we will have to wait and see. Hope you found the courses that you attended helpful ? Heartily agree with you about PR maintenance class which we are so fortunate to have here online once a week for an hour. Often there are up to 20 + people on the call. It makes so much sense to help people moving and well. The ICB here, having started it during the pandemic I am not sure could discontinue it now even if they wanted to..
Yes, the risk of picking up some bug or other can be scary can't it ? Fortunately since being prescribed Roflumilast two years ago, although I have had exacerbations I haven't needed any additional antibiotics. apart from the regular alternate day Azithromycin. This is huge for me as I was needing 2-4 prescriptions a winter. It is now more of the Asthma which comes to the fore in an exacerbation now.
Your exercise routine sounds just the job and clearly helps to keep you active. So important isn't it to keep those big leg muscles in good shape ? In my case I hope that keeping those quads in good shape that I will be able to get myself on and off the toilet in later years.
I hope you keep well and are able to enjoy the warmer weather which hopefully is on the way.
Go well,
Pauline
I found PR courses fantastic, Pauline. But the last was about 5 years ago. I must find out if there is an online PR maintenance course here.
Touching wood as I type, I have also not needed ABs except for Azithromcin like yourself. Im also very happy to be put onto triple therapy which has enabled a big reduction in inhaled steroids. So as I am now classed as pre-diabetic, Im hoping to have lower blood sugar readings with reduced steroids, and of course exercising is good for that as muscles which are exercises are better at taking up blood sugar and hence lowering it in the blood stream.
Thanks for this post Pauline, a really valuable one. You take care 
yes and I try and count laps of the house , backwards and forwards and stair climbs .
But I have had frequent waves of panic when I reach the top …real panic attacks which come without warning .
Other times it’s OK .
Being CEV has its drawbacks , and like you there’s the fear that double pneumonia could return .
This is probably obvious but do you have a chair to rest on at the top of the stairs, knitter? Im lucky that I dont have panic attacks so not sure what to suggest, and anyway Im sure you've thought round the issue. I think if it was me I would assume I would rest at the top, rather than hope to get down straight after going up which must create anxiety - which is horrid, even if you do not actually have a panic attack. Take care
I have some fitness videos that I put on in the flat when the weather makes it too dangerous to go outside!
Building confidence .
Warming up .
Understanding breathlessness .
How to manage breathlessness without it leading to cycle of anxiety ,breathlessness . anxiety .
I used to go to gentle yoga , Cardio rehab , and breathe easy gym ….all closed now .
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