Keeping active

Managing my COPD
NHS GGC

Moving regularly is good for your lungs because it increases the strength of the muscles in your chest and the rest of your body. As you gain more strength, the muscles can work more efficiently and need less energy and oxygen. This means you will be able to breathe more easily when you’re active.  

There are lots of other benefits of staying active: 

  • it can improve your immune system and help you fight colds and flu 
  • it can reduce anxiety and depression
  • it can help improve your sleep
  • it can help you maintain a healthy weight
  • it reduces your risk of other health problems such as heart disease or diabetes   

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a free programme of exercise and information for people living with COPD. It is a recommended treatment and has been proven to have significant health benefits for people living with long-term respiratory conditions. Attending a pulmonary rehabilitation course can help you to understand how to stay active with your COPD and learn how to manage and control your condition.  

Interested in pulmonary rehabilitation? Ask your GP or respiratory healthcare professional to refer you.  

Click here More information about pulmonary rehabilitation including links to home exercise videos is available in our Pulmonary rehabilitation section
Click here Physical activity and exercise | My Lungs My Life 
Click here Physical activity and your lungs | Asthma + Lung UK