Resistance Training with a Chronic Respiratory Condition

Resistance training involves the performance of physical exercises that are designed to improve muscular strength and endurance. These types of exercises cause the muscles to contract against an external resistance, such as free weights (e.g. dumbbells), weight machines, resistance bands, or body weight.

Adaptations to Regular Resistance Training

• Resistance training improves musculoskeletal fitness by increasing strength, power, and muscular endurance

• Improves balance and coordination

• Increases resting metabolic rate (metabolism)

• Increases lean tissue mass (such as muscle) and lowers body fat

• Improves insulin sensitivity, which is especially important for diabetics

• Reduces low back pain

• Lowers sarcopenia and osteoporosis

Resistance Training F.I.T.T Guidelines for Chronic Respiratory Conditions

• Frequency: Resistance training 2-3 times each week, with at least 48-hour rest between sessions that work the same muscle groups.

• Intensity & Time/Volume: The amount of resistance (or weight) used in an exercise, the number of repetitions and sets for a particular exercise, and the length of time to complete all exercises in a set or total training session will determine the intensity and time/volume of a resistance training session. 

• Type: The type of exercise performed can vary. One can perform exercises with body weight, resistance bands, free weights, water training, or machines that provide constant or variable resistance.

Repetitions vs. Sets

It is important to understand the terms repetitions and sets in resistance training. 

• A repetition (or “rep”) is one complete exercise movement.

• A set is a group of consecutive repetitions (or “reps”).

Functional Movement Patterns

The exercises performed during your resistance training should focus on functional movement patterns. Functional movements are movements you do in your daily life. The categories of functional movements include:

• Squat

• Lunge

• Hinge

• Push

• Pull

• Carry

You can create so many different exercises going off of these functional movement patterns. Your workout never has to be boring or repetitive. Try to get creative with different movements but remember to always listen to your body!

Remember to talk to your doctor or health care provider to see if resistance training is right for you.