Asthma - Why and How to Exercise?

Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions in Australia. While traditionally, asthma is managed by education around avoiding flare-ups and certain prescription medications, exercise can play a significant role in helping manage the condition.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the airways. Once inflamed, the airways can become narrow leading people with asthma to experience symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and difficulties in breathing.

There are different types of asthmas, based on what triggers a person's asthma and caused inflammation of the airways. You can find more information here.

Who gets Asthma and how common is it?

There are approximately 2.7 million Australians estimated to have asthma. That's 1 in 9 of us.

Although asthma can affect anyone at any age, research shows that in children under the age of 14, it is more common among boys than girls. Meanwhile, in adults aged over 25, it's more common in women than men.