By Robert Grabko, R.P.F.T., B.S.

Athletes with asthma don’t have to be content to simply “be fit.”  Fitness levels can improve once airway hyper-reactivity is well controlled using non-medication techniques and medications. Athletes who are serious about improving fitness levels to a competitive or elite level may want to consider completing a V02 maximum (max) fitness test to determine baseline measures of anaerobic threshold and V02 max measured in cc/kg/min.

Athletes training below anaerobic threshold heart rates burn stored fat as the body’s preferred fuel. Training above anaerobic threshold heart rates requires quick energy; the body uses converted glucose as the preferred fuel. Depending on athletic aspirations and fitness goals, an exercise prescription can be formulated below anaerobic heart rates to burn body fat and lose weight, or above anaerobic threshold heart rates in the cardiovascular training zone to build up lactic acid tolerance and improve performance.  

Creating Effective Workouts with Exercise Prescription
Recreational athletes who have experienced airway tightening for some time may have weight gain and de-conditioning associated with limited activity. Exercise prescription goals should include low heart rates for extended workouts to burn fat and lose weight. Generally, heart rates below anaerobic threshold that are sustained for 60 minutes every other day are best. Cardiovascular workouts can be varied to improve the V02 max test results. A common problem in many athletes is ineffective workouts: workouts are too intense and fat is stored rather than burned.

Athletes who are fit and whose asthma is well controlled should feel comfortable completing cardiovascular workouts at heart rates above anaerobic threshold. Doing so allows for improved lactic acid tolerance, and higher V02 max results. Generally, heart rates above anaerobic threshold for 20 minutes every other day are best.

V02 Max Fitness Testing
The V02 max fitness test is performed on a bicycle, treadmill or even a hockey treadmill. The test requires a mouthpiece to measure breathing and an electrocardiogram to monitor heart rate and rhythm. Athletes exercise to his/her maximum level and the total oxygen burn is measured in cc/kg/min. The higher the 02 burn, the better the fitness level. Olympic athletes can attain V02 max measures ranging from 80 to 90 cc/kg/min.

Following completion of a maximum fitness test and creation of an exercise prescription, a repeat V02 max test in six weeks can track changes in anaerobic threshold and total fitness levels. Athletes can set goals based on desired performance levels for their sport.

Reaching optimal fitness is possible for athletes once the asthma is properly treated and brought under control!