If you suffer from a disease or condition that compromises the quality of your lungs, you may find that you have trouble breathing or catching your breath. Certain diseases, like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, can weaken lungs over time. In order to strengthen your sick lungs and breathe easier, pair exercise with breathing activities. Work with your doctor to find the solution that's best for you and your condition.
Step 1
Stop smoking if you're a smoker, and avoid secondhand smoke if you're not a smoker. Smoking is a major cause of COPD and lung cancer, as it causes inflammation of your airways and makes it harder for your lungs to function. As a result, cigarette smoke can make you feel out of breath and unable to take in the necessary oxygen you need to function. Eventually, smoke destroys lung tissue, reducing lung function altogether.
Step 2
Participate in aerobic exercise for at least 2 1/2 hours per week. Aerobic exercise can help improve lung function, because your lungs must work harder to provide oxygen to the blood pumping to your muscles and heart. Just like exercising your bicep, exercising your lungs over time results in stronger lungs, which means you may be able to breathe easier and are less likely to lose your breath while exercising.
Step 3
Practice breathing exercises every day as a way to strengthen your sick lungs. The Cleveland Clinic recommends a technique known as diaphragmatic breathing. Begin by making yourself comfortable on an exercise mat or other sturdy surface, with your head propped up by a pillow, and a pillow under your knees if necessary. Place your hand over your stomach, and breathe in through your nose, causing your belly and hand to rise up. Then, purse your lips and breathe out slowly, using your core muscles to hold in the air. Practice for 5 to 10 minutes, three or four times each day.
Step 4
Add crunches and core exercises to your fitness routine. In order to have healthy lungs, you must have strong chest and abdominal muscles in order to help your body correctly bring air in and out of the body. With stronger muscles, it will be easier for you to bring air into your lungs.
Step 5
Schedule an appointment with your doctor if daily exercise and lifestyle changes don't seem to improve your lung function. You may need an inhaler or air purifier to help deal with your COPD, asthma or lung problems on a medical level.
