W6R2 and I just can't catch my breath...

[geb6o8]

I run first thing in the morning so still chilly. I'm finding it really hard to catch my breath. I'm not 'out of breath' just cannot take a deep breath. This morning's run was evil. I hated every second of it as I struggled to master any comfortable breathing. I'm thinking of taking my daughter's asthma pump with me next time to see if that'll help. Any tips please?

[Anna675 Graduate]

Well done for persevering with your run. You could try running with a neck buff pulled over your mouth and nose to help limit the cold air intake. I found this helpful when the temps were in minus figures. Good luck

[geb6o8 Graduate in reply to Anna675]

I've never heard of a neck buff so thank you for that. It wasn't sub zero today but I little chilly first thing.

[Anna675 Graduate in reply to geb6o8]

I use them on my motorbike. But also listen to the other advice ...and try slowing down, I always used to go too fast when I was running on my own, (conversational pace is advised 😊) when I could run with my OH it was easier as he made me chat throughout our runs which in turn helped my breathing.

[Buddy34 Graduate]

Hi, I posted a few times previously about being out if breath and I was told to slow down, I already thought I was slow but I made more effort with my pace and hey Presto it worked so give it a try hope it helps 😊

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Get checked out if the breathing is really difficult. The cold is tricky..I have a buff, but sometimes it is like gulping down iced water. Slow right down too, and then some

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Can you breathe deeply and fully while walking?

If yes, then you can slow down your running to a pace at which you can speak aloud, clear ungasping sentences as you run......... this is the pace recommended in the guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

If the answer is no, then it might be a good idea to consult your GP.

Taking your daughter's medication without specific advice is not a good idea.

There is a condition known as exercise induced asthma.

[geb6o8 Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you, that link is very useful.

[ButtercupKid Graduate]

I find taking a small mouthful of water, holding it in my mouth for a couple of seconds and then swallowing it helps me get a grip on my breathing. Don’t know why - it’s maybe just a distraction from the negative Voices ! If you try it and the cold affects you, put water in your bottle the night before and store it at room temperature x

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

I ran early today... dew creating mist on the field... that air was so cold to breath in that it hurt... so I dunno if it’s any help, but I’ve been running 9 months now and it was tough out there this morning... my hands really felt it too. Like you though, I did that run, so I consider that a victory... and you are one too.

Maybe a buff would help if you’re going to run really lot at this time of year.

Enjoy run 3... you got this.

[geb6o8 Graduate in reply to UnfitNoMore]

That's lovely of you to say. I guess instead of thinking of today's run as being an evil one I should be congratulating myself on not giving up!

Am dreading the next one however!

[UnfitNoMore Graduate in reply to geb6o8]

You’re doing great... you’re stronger than when you ran 20... you just did 25 minutes of cardio... next run is the same as far as the legs are concerned, maybe even easier as they won’t cool. Slow and steady start... ease into your happy pace and you’ll be just fine.

No matter how long you run for, you’ll go out some days and it will be tougher than you’re expecting... but that’s a good thing, you get to test and build your mental strength too. When you beat a tough run it’s because you’re tougher... so it’s time to be proud of yourself.

[Tinkto5k]

I feel your pain on this as I am experiencing the same and no matter how many times I explain it, people just tell me to slow down... I can't go any slower or it would be a walk! I have exercise induced asthma which only ever raises its head at high altitude or when exerting myself (used to be cycling up a hill until running)... it's not just breathing heavily, it's that you don't feel able to take a deep enough breath, right? Which means after many failed in-breaths you're struggling for enough air.

The only thing that has helped me has been to take more of my inhaler prior to the run (and sometimes during too) to open my airways (def see doc before taking anyone else's medication though).

FYI, I was at height of fitness and playing sport every day at school... I still couldn't breath freely though and it was scary (wasn't diagnosed until I was 18 so struggled til then)

My theory is that breathing will improve as fitness does but perhaps the asthma will always need a hand?? Would be interested to see how you manage it...please let me know 😉

[geb6o8 Graduate in reply to Tinkto5k]

Thank you Tinkto5k you've been so helpful. I think I will take a trip to see my GP if this carries on. I admit I'm over weight, though have lost a lot in the past couple of years however I'm very active and up until now have been coping with my breathing quite well. I'll go out again on Wed using some of the tactics suggested on here and will borrow a blue inhaler... off the record! Will keep in touch so you know how it's working my end. Thanks for your help.

[Tinkto5k in reply to geb6o8]

You're welcome. Please see doc first though! I too am overweight so more pressure on our breathing....however, this doesn't explain my school-time breathing issues when fully fit, so asthma has to be contributing to some extent for me. That said, I ran (jogged) 28 mins yesterday and had just one 'hard to recover' incident in the last minute (because we climbed a hill lol). It can be done, keep going!!