Summary
The basics of breathing physiology (ventilation, gas exchange, muscles involved in inhalation and exhalation) are described. Problems with breathing and oxygen transport are often first detected during physical exercise when the oxy¬gen and energy consumption of muscles increases. You can influence your own breathing and well-being by doing breathing exercises and by learning how to relax your breathing. Those with respiratory disorders can use breathing exercises and physical exercise to boost the removal of mucus from the airways.
It is important for people with re¬spiratory diseases to learn to distinguish between normal and abnormal shortness of breath. How, is described in the paper, as well as ways to relieve shortness of breath.
Being fit makes life easier for people with respiratory diseases, increases the quality of life and improves everyday functional capacity. The recommended amount of endur¬ance exercise is a total of 2.5 hours per week, or 1 hour and 15 minutes of high-intensity exercise. In addition, muscle strength and balance exercises should be engaged in at least two times a week. In the guide, there are detailed instructions for that as well.

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The publication is a handbook about physical activity and exercise for people with respiratory impairments. It provides information about respiratory physiology and various breathing techniques as well as exercise tips for people of all ages and fitness levels, based on the current national and international scientific literature.
The Organisation for Respiratory Health in Finland (Hengitysliitto) is a non-profit organisation doing national advocacy work on respiratory health in Finland. The organisation provides up-to-date, evidence-based information on pulmonary diseases and their treatment, arranges courses, events etc., and cooperates widely with other organisations, the health care system, and the parliament. It promotes respiratory health and good life for people suffering from respiratory diseases.