From the Guidelines
To naturally increase lung volume, engage in regular aerobic exercise and practice deep breathing exercises daily, as these methods have been shown to strengthen respiratory muscles and improve lung elasticity. According to the American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society statement on pulmonary rehabilitation 1, pulmonary rehabilitation should be considered for all patients with chronic respiratory disease who have persistent symptoms, limited activity, and/or are unable to adjust to illness despite otherwise optimal medical management. This statement highlights the importance of exercise and rehabilitation in improving lung function and overall health.
Some key methods to increase lung volume include:
- Regular aerobic exercise like running, swimming, or cycling for at least 30 minutes, 3-5 times weekly
- Practicing deep breathing exercises daily, such as diaphragmatic breathing, for 5-10 minutes, 2-3 times daily
- Engaging in activities that strengthen respiratory muscles, such as playing wind instruments like flute or trumpet, singing, or yoga
- Maintaining good posture to allow full lung expansion and staying well-hydrated to keep lung tissues healthy
- Avoiding smoking and minimizing exposure to air pollution
These approaches work by gradually strengthening respiratory muscles, increasing lung elasticity, and improving the efficiency of oxygen exchange, as noted in a study on the effects of exercise training on individuals with COPD 1. The diaphragm and intercostal muscles become stronger with consistent practice, allowing deeper breaths and greater lung capacity. For those with existing respiratory conditions, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise regimen.
From the Research
Natural Methods to Increase Lung Volume
To naturally increase lung volume, several breathing techniques and exercises can be employed. These methods aim to improve respiratory function, increase strength and endurance of the respiratory muscles, and optimize the pattern of thoracoabdominal motion.
- Diaphragmatic Breathing: This technique involves breathing predominantly with the diaphragm while minimizing the action of accessory muscles that may assist with inspiration 2. However, the efficacy of diaphragmatic breathing as an adjunctive treatment modality for persons with COPD is questionable 2. A study found that diaphragmatic breathing significantly improves respiratory function and quality of life in older adult patients with COPD when combined with aerobic exercise 3.
- Pursed Lips Breathing: This technique has been shown to be effective in improving symptoms of dyspnea and eliciting physiological effects in patients with COPD 4. Pursed-lip breathing was also found to increase inspiratory muscle pressure in COPD patients 5.
- Inspiratory Muscle Training: This training has been found to boost exercise capacity and improve dyspnea in COPD patients 5.
- Yoga: Yoga has been shown to raise patients' quality of life and improve dyspnea in COPD patients 5.
- Chinese Traditional Fitness Exercises: These exercises have been found to improve pulmonary function, exercise capacity, and inspiratory muscle pressure in COPD patients 5.
- Aerobic Exercise: Aerobic exercise combined with diaphragmatic breathing has been shown to significantly improve respiratory function and quality of life in older adult patients with COPD 3.
Important Considerations
When practicing these breathing techniques, it is essential to consider individual patient characteristics and needs. Proper instruction, control of the techniques, and assessment of the effects are necessary to ensure the effectiveness of these methods 4. Additionally, the transfer of the effects of breathing techniques during resting conditions to exercise conditions is limited, and further research is needed to resolve this issue 4.