Asthma Exercise Checklist

Check the weather and air quality. Cold, dry air, high pollen or poor air quality can trigger symptoms — plan or adjust intensity accordingly.
Pack your quick-relief inhaler. Make sure it’s with you, not expired, and that you know how to use it.
Warm up gradually. A slower 10–15 minute warmup can reduce the chance of symptoms starting.
Tell your coach or workout partner. Let someone nearby know you have asthma and where your inhaler is.

Watch for warning signs like breathing harder for the level of activity, cough, wheezing, more mucus/phlegm, or chest tightness. These are signs to slow down, follow your Asthma Action Plan and use your rescue inhaler if directed.
Slow down or stop exercising. Don’t try to push through worsening symptoms.
Follow your Asthma Action Plan. Use your rescue medication if directed.
Tell your coach, trainer or workout partner. Don’t try to manage symptoms alone.

Cool down gradually. Stopping too abruptly can sometimes bring symptoms on.
Note how you felt. Track any symptoms so you can share patterns with your healthcare provider.
Restock your inhaler if needed. Replace it before your next workout if it’s low or expired.

Review your Asthma Action Plan with your provider. Review it at the start of each season or after any flare-up.
Keep a backup inhaler with your gear bag. So you’re never without one on game day.
Share your plan with coaches and school staff. Make sure they know your triggers and what to do if symptoms start.

Stay calm and focus on slow breathing. Sit upright and breathe slowly. Panic can make breathing feel more difficult.
Get emergency help right away if: your rescue inhaler isn’t helping, breathing is very hard and doesn’t go back to normal after exercise or your lips or fingernails look blue or gray.
Call 911 or your local emergency number if your asthma continues to get worse.

Before exercise or activity