Basic Principles of a Swimming Program for Asthmatic Children. A Suitable Exercise for Improving their Quality of Life.

Abstract

Bronchial asthma is the most frequent chronic disease of childhood and 7,3% of Greek children suffer from the above disease. Asthmatic children are usually not physically fit, because of tendency to be excluded from sports, which challenge probably bronchocostriction. The high value of swimming for asthmatics, in their growth and better management of the disease, is supported by articles in medical journals. A swimming program, which is developed in indoor heated pool and includes weekly sessions, individualized training and breathing exercise, seems to improve the fitness of asthmatic children, reduce asthma’s symptoms and develop their self-esteem. Generally, the participation of asthmatic child in sports must be encouraged, because of developing his self-confidence; reducing his anxious and feeling that lives a “normal” life.