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LIVING WELL WITH ILD

Stay active

It’s important to stay active and even exercise when you have ILD. Being active can help you manage stress, sleep better and feel better.

Speak to your healthcare team about an exercise plan that works for you. They will check your oxygen levels to make sure you have enough oxygen in your blood to exercise. If your levels are too low, you may be asked to use oxygen therapy during activity.

Two women in a yoga studio stretching their upper arms

Stretching

  • Stretching an enjoyable way to relax your muscles, reduce stress and keep your body flexible.
  • Stretching is a good way to warm up or cool down after other exercises.
  • You should try to stretch every day.

Aerobic exercise

  • Aerobic exercise includes activities like walking, cycling or swimming that move your entire body. They make your heart, lungs and muscles stronger.
  • You should do aerobic exercise at least three times a week for 20 to 30 minutes each time.
  • If you can’t exercise for that long, you can break it up until you are able to reach 20 minutes of aerobic exercise without stopping.
Woman exercising
Older man holding small hand weights in curl position

Strength-building exercise

  • Strength-building exercises work your muscles to make them stronger.
  • You can use weights or resistance bands or your own body weight to strengthen your arms, legs and core (stomach and back).
  • Squats, push ups or wall presses are examples of strength-building exercises you can do with your own body weight.
  • You should do strength-building exercises two or three times a week.

 

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