I have a customer with exercise induced asthma who uses an inhaler. Why does the forward plank induce the asthmatic condition?

The American College of Sports Medicine states that "exercise induced asthma (EIA) is characterized by transient airway obstruction that usually occurs 5 to 15 minutes following physical exertion. Symptoms consist of wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or a combination of these, lasting up to 30 minutes following the cessation of exercise. A small percentage of individuals with EIA experience a late reaction. (i.e. a further episode of air obstruction 4-6h later). The mechanisms of EIA are not completely understood, but are likely related to respiratory heat loss, increased osmolality caused by respiratory water loss or associated vascular events, all triggered by an increasing minute ventilation during exercise."

The ACSM adds, "The amount of physical exertion required to produce asthma symptoms is usually equivalent to a relative work rate of 75% of age-predicted maximal heart rate."

Having typed the above, here is how I would approach it:

1. Does the mat need to be cleaned or replaced? Might it be something that your client is inhaling in the plank position that might be causing the exacerbation?

2. Can you have your client wear a heart rate monitor so that you can determine whether he/she is working above the intensity stated above that will produce symptoms?

I hope this is of help to you.

Is it possible that it not the exercise itself but the closeness to the floor since she has to hold this position for an extended amount of time? She may be inhaling small particles of dust or fumes of chemicals used for cleaning.

Hi Fran.

Symptoms of asthma which is difficulties with exhalation is a result from bronchi / smooth muscles constrictions. Forward plank exercise creating pressure on lungs /forcible exhalations which causing smooth muscles relaxation. Also incorporation of medical massage special techniques and bronchial drainage can be very complementary to this exercise. You welcome to read my article on the subject.
http://medicalmassage-edu.com/article_details.php?bn_id=9
Best wishes.
Boris Prilutsky

Symptoms of asthma which is difficulties with exhalation is a result from bronchi / smooth muscles constrictions. Forward plank exercise creating pressure on lungs /forcible exhalations which is causing smooth muscles relaxation therefore can be only helpful . Most likely some anxieties and/or allergens triggering it. Also incorporation of medical massage special techniques and bronchial drainage can be very complementary to this exercise. You welcome to read my article on the subject.
http://medicalmassage-edu.com/article_details.php?bn_id=9
Best wishes.
Boris Prilutsky

I too have exercise-induced asthma and in the case of exercise like this, it usually comes down to breathing correctly and deeply. It may take a lot of practice, but it will help eventually.

Just dealt with this in a high schooler. Turned out to be panic attacks that triggered it. Holding that stressful position without much movement gave lots of time for them to think about it. Try communicating the entire time with them so they breath more naturally. It takes time but it does subside.