Management

Exercising with Chronic Lung Disease: Keep Moving!

Choose a preferred language

Think about what you can do to make exercise a way of life. How can you work it into your daily routine? How can you make it more enjoyable? The suggestions below may lead to some ideas of your own.

Woman walking up stairs.


Make exercise part of your day…

  Start your day with some simple stretches before you get out of bed.

  Go to your favorite store and walk up and down the long aisles.

  While watching TV, stretch your arms and legs.

  Park your car a little farther from a store and walk the rest of the way.

  Take the stairs instead of waiting for the elevator.

  Add up the minutes of moderate activity you do all day.

Try your own ideas: ________________________________________


…And make it fun!

  Visit with friends by walking around the neighborhood together.

  Take your dog for a walk in the park.

  Walk through a museum, mall, or zoo with your family.

  Bowl, fish, or golf with friends.

  Put a photo of your kids or grandkids near your exercise spot for motivation.

  Read a book or magazine while you ride an exercise bike.

  Listen to your favorite music or a comedy tape while you exercise.

Try your own ideas: ________________________________________

Online Medical Reviewer: Chris Southard RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Rajadurai Samnishanth Researcher

Online Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN

Date Last Reviewed: 10/01/2024

© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
doctor icon

Find the right provider to meet your needs

From primary care to specialty services and more.

Find a Doctor
appointment clock icon

Call for an Appointment

Offering personalized care at more than 20 clinics across three cities and two states.

Call Now
Related Articles
Read article
Lung Health
Exercising with Chronic Lung Disease: Taking the First Step

Before you start exercising, the pulmonary rehab team will assess your needs. If you have joint pain or any other health problems, be sure to discuss them with the team.

Read article
Lung Health
Breathing Methods: Diaphragmatic Breathing

Diaphragmatic breathing or belly breathing helps you to breathe with your diaphragm. The diaphragm is a large muscle that plays an important part in breathing. It's located below your lungs. It separates your chest from your belly.

Read article
Lung Health
Tracheostomy Care

Follow these instructions to help care for and clean your tracheostomy.

Read article
Lung Health
Using an Incentive Spirometer

An incentive spirometer is a handheld device that helps you do deep breathing exercises. Learn how to use it with these step-by-step instructions.