The good news is that the process starts immediately after quitting. You don't say how long ago you quit, but if you are able to walk briskly for an hour a day and work out with weights, I'd guess your lungs are well on their way back to near-peak operating capacity. If you were a heavy smoker for 22 years, your lungs may never become what they were before you started smoking. They may get close, though, and your risk of lung cancer should drop to almost that of a non-smoker within 10 or 15 years. Ten to 15 years may not be soon enough to suit you, but believe me, you'll feel substantially better soon, if you don't already.
Some people have a rougher time than others with nicotine withdrawal.
It may take weeks or possibly months before you really come to appreciate your accomplishment. All Rights Reserved. All rights reserved. The information contained above is intended for general reference purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or a medical exam.