Everyone can benefit from a daily exercise regimen. Allergy and asthma sufferers need to exercise just like everybody else, but exercise-induced asthma and outdoor training often limit how much that person can do. If you suffer from breathing problems, Pilates is a program that benefits your health without subjecting you to some allergy or asthma triggers associated with high impact workouts or exercising outdoors.

I recently read an article in Coping with Allergies & Asthma by Dr. William Briner, a specialist in Sports Medicine, about the benefits of Pilates. He describes the history of Pilates and as well as its benefits. This style of exercise routine is great for improving coordination, flexibility, and strength. Traditional Pilates programs use very little equipment, and most are a series of exercises performed on a mat on the floor. Unlike many traditional exercise regimens, Pilates involves a series of exercises with minimal movement and few repetitions. It concentrates on your core muscle strength, “or powerhouse”, to use Pilates terminology. Regulated breathing patterns during the series of exercises helps to improve endurance as well as concentration.

Allergy and asthma sufferers have to be creative and willing to try new approaches to improve their health. Being sedentary is harmful and can exacerbate certain symptoms while having a negative impact on your overall health. As always, before starting a new exercise regimen, you need to do some research. Check out the Pilates class and determine the level of intensity. Contact your physician to help determine what you are capable of participating in without risk. Though Pilates is not a total substitute for aerobic exercise, it is an excellent addition to your workout regimen.