Running with an inhaler

dzstephy

Hi all,

I started jogging this past week. My goal is to train to do a 5k without using my asthma inhaler. I do not have asthma. I have upper airway restriction issues due to sinuses, etc. Does anyone use an inhaler? If so, where do you store it when you run? I have been using an old fanny pack but not sure if it is safe storage for my inhaler.

Thanks in advance!

JenniferEM2012

I do. I put it in my sports bra. I put it up by my shoulder with the part that touches my mouth facing out. I do have to clean it after every time.

dzstephy

Thanks for the tip!

rduhlir

I would take a look at "Running on Air". It is a book on breathing technique for runners and they have a section in there about running with asthma.

likitisplit

I have reactive airways, so I don't have to use my inhaler often. I don't run with it, but I make sure to use it whenever I have an intense workout scheduled (intervals, hills, etc). And, of course, before races.

I've found that running makes breathing easier (it really does develop your cardiopulmonary fitness).

dzstephy

Thanks for the tip. I will check out "Running on Air." @vardaemi did you have any issues with a dry cough after running when you first started?

likitisplit

I get wheezy if I run too hard without using the inhaler. Today, I used the inhaler but did an interval session where I ran for 15 minutes easy, 12 minutes pushing and then 3 minutes as fast as I could sustain. I wasn't able to do the three minutes because it felt like I had something caught in my chest and I couldn't stop coughing as long as I was moving. It wasn't a dry cough though.