You may also benefit from a different type of drug known as a long-acting or "controller" medication. These drugs work 24 hours a day to open the airways and help stop asthma symptoms before they start. Remember that controller medications will not be effective unless you take them regularly -- even when you are symptom-free.

Choosing the Right Activity

Choosing the right form of exercise can also help prevent symptom flare-ups. Activities that incorporate rest breaks are less likely to trigger symptoms. Long walks and short-distance cycling or running are good examples of stop-and-start activities that increase your fitness level while minimizing the risk of an asthma attack.

Other good activities include:

• Swimming
• Golf (if pollen is not a problem)
• Hiking
• Baseball
• Gymnastics
• Football

By contrast, long periods of extended exertion are more likely to cause breathing difficulties for people with asthma. Such activities include:

• Basketball
• Cross-country skiing
• Hockey
• Long-distance biking or running
• Soccer

Cold weather sports in general may be worse for people with asthma because air is colder and drier in winter. Colder, drier air can irritate the air passages and provoke asthma attacks.

Tips for Better Breathing

No matter what form of exercise you choose, performing certain preventive measures can reduce your risk of triggering an asthma attack. Warming up is essential for all exercise and can be especially beneficial when asthma is a factor. Walking for 10 minutes can help prepare your body for a long jog. This makes it less likely that your chest muscles will suddenly seize up during the run.