Asthma and running

[asthmaticrunner1974]

Hi everyone. Does anyone have any tips and tricks for breathing techniques for a asthmatic? I just completes run 1 of week 4 and the first 5 minute run was very difficult for me.

Thanks

[Mand102 Graduate]

I have asthma, although not bad. I always have 2 puffs of my blue inhaler just before a run, and taken it with me....just in case. As I've learned to pace myself better I've found my breathing is fine now during and after a run.

[asthmaticrunner1974 in reply to Mand102]

Thank you

[GoGo_JoJo Graduate]

I am mildly asthmatic and swear by breathing techniques. It helps if you're used to using them to deal with run of the mill wheeziness too but basically the main idea is to breathe in and try to hold your breath for even a millisecond longer than you would normally. This allows the oxygen to move round your body better before you breathe out. You'll only be able to achieve this 1 in 10ish breaths to begin with but with practice you can hold it longer, a full couple of seconds and do it more often staving off that "can't breathe" feeling. 👍😁

[Tasha99 Graduate]

Also mildly asthmatic. I take preventor before bed and on waking and before a run. Tbh my asthma has nearly gone since running 👍🏽

[asthmaticrunner1974 in reply to Tasha99]

Thank you

[Tasha99 Graduate in reply to asthmaticrunner1974]

Also I use a buff for cold weather, but like less than 2 degrees

[Uphill-downhill Graduate]

Running has helped my asthma, I use blue inhaler about 50% of time prior to a run and take it with me, tucked in my bra as a precaution! In winter when weather is v cold a buff can help to breath the air through so it's warmer when I inhail it. Been running for 6 months now and it's all a gain

[asthmaticrunner1974 in reply to Uphill-downhill]

Thank you

[Richroux Graduate]

Hiya, I am asthmatic and found I get tight chested if running in cold weather or if I have a cold / feeling under the weather. It usually comes on in the first five minutes until my breathing settles down. If I feel this way I take a couple of puffs of ventolin before I go out.

If my asthma is under control, I can usually get through the first few mins and it is ok. I found my breathing improved as my stamina got better. Your body will adjust as you get further on. I have recently completed week nine (although it took me 12 weeks) and can't believe I am running for 30 mins. Keep on going and believe in yourself, your breathing will improve.

[asthmaticrunner1974 in reply to Richroux]

Thank you and respect to you.