Exercise

There are many benefits to exercising. Here are just a few:

- exercise can increase the levels of relaxing brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine.
- slows down the aging process on a cellular level
- reduces anxiety and depression (because of the chemicals released)
- helps build and maintain healthy muscles, bones and joints.
- reduces the risk of developing diabetes
- improves learning: increases the level of brain chemicals, known as growth factors, and builds new connections between brain cells.
- builds self esteem and improves body image
- creates a euphoric feeling- the adrenaline of exercising is also known as a "runner's high"
- the rate of lung functions decreasing is slower in those who exercise, as oppose to those who do not.


Just because you have CF doesn't mean you can't work out. Before doing anything too intense, refer to your doctor for approval. If you are experiencing an exacerbation, infection, or pulmonary hypertension, you should hold off until your functions are back up to exercise. There are a number of exercises you can do.

Yoga- Your CF clinic can provide you with a Yoga  for CF patients DVD. If you cannot get one, or don't know how to, email me and I can give you a copy. It has really great stretches that improve lung functions, posture, and the amount of air your lungs can intake. It doesn't require too much energy, but always leaves me feeling refreshed!

Walking- Get up and walk! Whether it's to the end of your street or around the block, walking is a great way to start exercising! And you'll get some fresh air and sunshine while you're at it.

Jogging- Start off jogging in place to make sure you can breathe properly, and once you're comfortable doing so, start moving around!

Weight lifting- create muscle and tone up, start with minimum weight and after a few weeks steadily increase. You'll be impressed by the muscle you'll build.

Biking- biking is always a great option!


Make sure you monitor your heart rate while exercising, stay hydrated, and if at any point you feel light headed STOP! Start off slowly and build your way up, you won't wake up a triathlete overnight, so don't even try it. Don't push yourself too hard or you'll end up in the hospital, trust me!


Remember to contact your physician in regards to exercising. Everyone's body is different, we have different tolerance levels and lung functions. The information above should not replace a personal trainer's advice or medical professional's advice.


Stay strong,

B.