Exercise is important for managing COPD. Exercise that makes you ‘huff and puff’ is good for your lungs and heart. Ideally, you should exercise for about 20-30 minutes per day. You may need to start with 10 minutes of exercise and slowly build this up over time. As you become fitter, your body will adapt, and everyday activities will begin to feel easier.
Choose something that you enjoy, but makes you puff and begin at a comfortable pace. You can increase distance or time as your fitness improves.
Your healthcare practitioner will be able to advise you about local facilities, and if your local hospital runs pulmonary rehabilitation classes. Pulmonary rehabilitation programmes are well worth attending for all people with COPD.
