Individuals with COPD may experience some or all of the following benefits from exercise:

• Cardiovascular reconditioning
• Improved ventilator efficiency
• Desensitization to dyspnea
• Improved flexibility
• Better balance
• Increased muscle strength

Accomplishment of these changes will require, along with exercise, monitoring medications (and potential side effects) and respiratory mechanics.

One of the most beneficial forms of exercise for those with moderate to severe COPD is interval training. It has proven to help lessen the symptoms of dyspnea and leg discomfort during training. It also allows for lower limb exercise at a high intensity, which would not otherwise be tolerable. It can be utilized by patients with advanced COPD, like those who are unable to sustain exercise intensities for long periods of time due to ventilator limitations.

It is important for individuals with COPD to go through a pulmonary rehab to measure endurance levels and to focus on breathing.