Physical activity and exercise

12) Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s DON’Ts
  • DO be sure to carry any sprays or inhalers with you when you exercise as advised by your health care professional.
  • DO always warm up. Begin with some gentle movements to warm up your muscle and prepare your body for exercise.
  • DO work at your own level. Here are some symptoms you will experience when exercising at a moderate level. These are normal.
    • Your heart will beat a bit faster.
    • You will breathe more quickly and deeply, but you should still be able to manage short sentences.
    • You will feel warmer.
    • You will sweat more.
  • DO finish with a cool down. Gentle stretches as your body cools down.
  • DO include some breathing exercises (For more information please see our section on How to clear your chest with breathing techniques).
  • DON’T exercise if you feel unwell, sick, get dizzy or experience pain? STOP. If your symptoms don’t settle or if they come back later see your doctor.
  • DON’T give up on exercising. Build up gradually and keep a regular routine of rest and exercise for your self management of COPD.
  • DON’T let the great Scottish weather put you off. There are lots of activities and exercises you can do at home or indoors.