Jogger with asthma

[Stheeee]

Hey guys just wanted to see if anyone on here has asthma? I started couch to 5k yesterday and went for the second one today. I go at my own pace and i still seem to get asthma. I feel really restricted because of my condition. But i try not to use my inhaler as i dont want to rely on it!

[Rennur Graduate]

Use your blue inhaler before you go out.

Don't run too fast.

Google Japanese Slow Running.

Most important -

You should leave at least one rest day between runs. That's the first rule.

[GoogleMe Graduate]

First and foremost - do the programme, not half of it. The programme involves a day of not running between each session so you should never be running on consecutive days.

There've been quite a few people on here with asthma - quite a few of whom have chosen to go on and do some amazing feats of running fitness. I hope some of them will rock up with more details, although a search might bring up some useful old posts. From what I recall, it is often about careful use of the right inhalers rather than just 'try not to use them', and tips for managing cold air if that's an issue for you as it is for many asthmatics (buffs, and I guess face coverings, are your friend)

It's great that you've asked for tips at this stage. Happy running!

[WillsMum68 Graduate]

I also have asthma and the programme has helped with it no end! Over the first lockdown and summer when I was running three times a week I had barely a wheeze......come September and along with it a shed load of decorating and a new puppy.....barely run at all and I’m back to my usual huffy puffy self!

I tend to get a wheezy dry cough with mine.....not ideal in these current times!

So please stick with it, it really will get better 😊

[cantrunbutwillrun Graduate]

I must agree with all of the other recommendations on here:

- use your blue inhaler before you run, at least 15 mins before.

- don't rush your run - take it at your own pace.

- follow the programme - take a day's break in between runs. If you need to redo a workout or a whole week, then that's okay.

It will get better with time - stick with it! Keep us updated, you've got this! 😁👏🏾

[Tasha99 Graduate]

Use an inhaler before you run. I got a turbohaler from the doc which is for sport. I only had mild asthma and it went by week 3.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

Please leave a rest day between runs.

When you run, the impact creates microtears in your muscles, which repair and strengthen on your rest days, not while running. Without rest, repair and strengthening are compromised and injury risk increased.

If you want to be the best runner that you can be, then do non impact cross training on your rest days, which will be far more beneficial than running every day. It is not recommended for new runners to run on consecutive days until they have a minimum of six months regular running on their legs.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

and includes advice on minimising impact, stretching after every run, hydration and strengthening exercises, all of which will help.

Enjoy your journey.

[Fazwaz Graduate]

I’m asthmatic too (on week 8) but I do like others have said and use my blue just before I go out, really helps.

[Dansac29 Graduate]

I too am asthmatic. My asthma regime has recently been changed to MART therapy ( basically, I now have only I inhaler), anyway use your blue before you go, and take it with you, just in case! Good luck with the rest of C25K!

[swim63 Graduate]

Just read your post, I don't have asthma but as a respiratory nurse having done many asthma clinics, PLEASE use your inhaler! Asthma is so underestimated, I really find it difficult to understand why it isn't taken more seriously, especially considering how many deaths per year!

If you have a steroid inhaler it's much better to rely upon this to keep your asthma under control.

If it is under control, running should be amazing for you.

So sorry for the rant, I just feel so passionate about it !

Hope you do really well 😊

[Mboutin Graduate]

Hi

I’m asthmatic as well (since age 3), and graduated yesterday.

Best advice already given. Stick to your usual medication but if you feel you need a blue inhaler before a run have a puff. If you’re worried slip it in a pocket and take it with you on the run.

I’m amazed at how much improved my lung capacity has got in 9 weeks, and recovery rate, this really will help your condition.

BUT don’t skip the rest days, especially as you progress your body (and lungs) need the time to recover.

Hope this helps

Oh, and SLOW DOWN

[Razouski]

I have asthma too but since I be been running - about 3 years now, I am pretty much symptom free now. Still have my asthma reviews and my nurse is impressed.

Happy healthy running. 🏃🏾‍♀️