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Effects of a physical conditioning programme on asthmatic patients
D M Robinson1, D M Egglestone, P M Hill
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, University of Auckland.
The New Zealand Medical Journal
|July 8, 1992
Summary
Individuals with moderate to severe asthma can safely improve physical fitness through commercial gymnasium programs. Regular exercise enhances fitness and daily activity without worsening asthma control.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Sports Science
Background:
- Asthma often limits physical activity participation.
- The benefits of exercise for asthma are well-documented, but specific guidance for moderate/severe cases in commercial settings is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess if moderate/severe asthmatics can improve physical fitness using standard commercial gymnasium programs.
- To evaluate the impact of such programs on asthma control and severity.
Main Methods:
- 12-week indoor circuit training program in a commercial gymnasium.
- Inclusion of 8 moderate/severe asthmatics and 7 non-asthmatic controls.
- Assessment of aerobic fitness, asthma severity, habitual activity, and psychological status pre- and post-training.
Main Results:
- Significant increases in peak oxygen uptake (aerobic fitness) in both asthmatics and controls.
- Reduced minute ventilation at high workloads in asthmatics post-training.
- Improved subjective ratings of physical task ability and increased habitual physical activity in all participants.
Conclusions:
- Moderate/severe asthmatics can safely participate in vigorous circuit training.
- Commercial gymnasium programs offer health benefits, including improved physical fitness, for asthmatics.
- Exercise does not negatively impact asthma control, with slight improvements in peak expiratory flow variability observed.
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