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So getting active is important, and getting breathless is good for you, but how much is too much?

Here are some tips:

  • Start slowly and gradually build up
  • Warm up before and cool down after your exercise
  • If you use an inhaler, carry it while you exercise, use it when you need to
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing and supportive non-slip shoes
  • Drink plenty of water so you don’t get dehydrated
  • Wait for at least an hour after eating before starting to exercise
  • Be active at a level that’s right for you – use the talk test to check:

Say out loud: “This activity is going to do me good!

  • If you can say the sentence with two or three stops for breath, you’re working at a moderate intensity. This is your aim.
  • If you can say the whole sentence without stopping, you can increase the intensity.
  • If you can’t speak, or can’t say more than one word at a time, you may want to slow down.

STOP if you get any sudden symptoms, including: chest pain or tightness, feeling dizzy, nauseous, clammy or cold, feeling increasingly wheezy, or getting sore joints or muscle weakness. Seek advice from a health care professional.

If you’re worried about figuring out the right level for you, speak to your doctor, nurse or physiotherapist.