Lung disease refers to disorders that prevent proper breathing with some examples including asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Almost 1 in 3 Australian’s have been diagnosed with some form of lung disease. Those at higher risk include past and current smokers, workers with exposure to dust/chemicals/gas, and those with a family history of lung disease.

​

When you’re living with COPD or lung disease, everyday activities such as walking or climbing stairs become increasingly more difficult. Regular exercise is important to maintain and improve physical conditioning and functional capacity, however modifications to exercise intensity and load may be necessary. Therefore, it is important to seek guidance from an Accredited Exercise Physiologist for pulmonary rehabilitation.

 

Performing regular aerobic exercise, such as walking or cycling, is important for pulmonary rehabilitation. This should be performed intermittently and at a low intensity until longer exercise durations can be tolerated. Resistance exercise is also encouraged to maintain muscle strength and functional capacity. Exercising the muscles of the upper, lower body and core can help improve quality of life.