If there is no pulmonary rehabilitation or exercise maintenance program near you, here are a couple of tips to stay active: Develop your own exercise program with guidance from your health-care provider. An exercise program should include: Aerobic exercise Strength/resistance training (e.g., light weights, elastic resistance bands) Stretching/flexibility exercises “Pursed lip breathing” can help improve how well your lungs move air in and out of your lungs. Learn how to do the pursed lip breathing technique with the Breathlessness fact sheet Walking aids such as rollators can reduce the shortness of breath you may experience while walking Learn more about the importance of exercise with COPD (both aerobic and strength building):
Try to exercise regularly or you will lose the benefits of it. Aim for at least three times per week and work towards 30 minutes at a time. You can start with a few minutes at a time and when you are comfortable, try to increase the time. Physical activity can help you maintain independence, increase energy level, improve mood and could help keep you out of the hospital.