Hey there, fellow asthma warriors! It's Jonny Havey, and today, I want to dive into a topic that my friend Robbie and I discuss all the time. It's a question that plagues many of us: What are the best exercises for asthma? With the internet flooded with influencers claiming they have the ultimate workout, it can be overwhelming. But fret not; I'm here to share my insights based on my personal experience as an athlete with asthma.

Before we get started, let me make something clear. I'm not a healthcare professional or a medical expert. I'm just a guy who's had asthma since birth, and I've accumulated over 30 years of firsthand experience dealing with it. So, while I'm excited to share my knowledge, remember to consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your exercise routine. Safety first!

Now, let's get down to business. What's the secret to finding the best exercise for asthma? It boils down to three crucial questions:

1. What Are Your Goals?

This is perhaps the most critical question. Your exercise regimen should align with your objectives. Are you looking to take a leisurely walk with your family without worrying about asthma attacks? Perhaps you're a sports enthusiast aiming to improve your endurance for your favorite game. Or maybe, like me, you dream of conquering a 14,000-foot peak.

Your goals define the type of exercise that's right for you. So, take a moment to clarify your objectives and understand why you're on this fitness journey.

2. What Do You Enjoy Doing?

Exercise should be enjoyable. It's as simple as that. While I may enjoy scaling mountains and going on long runs with my dog, you might have different preferences. You might love playing volleyball or practicing yoga. The key is to engage in activities that you genuinely enjoy.

Don't force yourself into exercises you despise just because someone claims they're the best. If you're not having fun, it's less likely you'll stick with it consistently.

3. What Can You Do Consistently?

Consistency is the secret sauce to success in any fitness journey. It's not about going all-out for a few days and then giving up. To see lasting results, you need an exercise routine you can stick to.

Consider the practicality of your chosen exercise. Can you realistically incorporate it into your daily or weekly schedule? For instance, if your goal is to conquer a 14,000-foot peak, but you can only play volleyball once a month, you'll need to find a way to bridge that gap.

Let's take a real-world example. Imagine you want to climb a 14,000-foot peak. Typically, these hikes range from 4 to 8 miles in length, with an elevation gain of 2,000 to 4,000 feet. The journey can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on your pace and experience.

Now, let's say you also enjoy playing soccer and can commit to playing once a week for around 45 minutes. That's excellent for cardiovascular fitness, but you'll need additional training to prepare for the 14,000-foot climb.

Walking can be an excellent complement. You can walk daily, gradually building up your endurance. Aim for a goal of walking around two miles a day. This low-impact exercise can help you develop the stamina needed for those long hikes.

In conclusion, the best exercise for asthma is one that aligns with your goals, brings you joy, and is sustainable. Remember, it's about what's best for you, not anyone else. If you're looking for more guidance on achieving your fitness goals, I've prepared a free guide on the three pillars that helped me lose 25 pounds in 90 days. Feel free to check it out; it's my gift to you!

DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS MY OPINION AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER. PLEASE CONSULT A HEALTHCARE PROVIDER FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE.