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E14. Asthma and Exercise: Why Staying Active Is Essential with Dr. Alan Kaplan
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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Alan Kaplan — a family doctor who specializes in respiratory medicine and has spent years working to improve asthma care in Canada. Dr. Kaplan is the chair of the Family Physician Airways Group of Canada and works closely with Asthma Canada. Together, we unpack what it takes to manage asthma well, the role regular physical activity plays in lung health, and how people with asthma can exercise safely and confidently.
We cover a lot of ground in this conversation — from the difference between exercise-induced asthma and exercise-induced bronchospasm to why using your inhaler before exercise matters. Dr. Kaplan shares practical advice on medication management, trigger awareness, and how to build up your fitness when you live with asthma, even if it’s severe.
We also talk about his career in respiratory care, what’s changed over the years, and why education and a clear plan are key for better asthma control. Whether you live with asthma or care for someone who does, you’ll take away real, useful strategies to help improve quality of life and stay active.
If you ever need extra support managing asthma or allergies, Asthma Canada has an excellent Asthma and Allergy Helpline you can reach out to for free. Learn more at https://asthma.ca/get-help/asthma-and-allergy-helpline/.
Episode Chapters
01:00 Introduction to Dr. Alan Kaplan
02:16 Asthma and Exercise: The Basics
03:28 Understanding Exercise-Induced Asthma
05:15 Managing Asthma Symptoms During Exercise
10:30 Building Confidence in Exercising with Asthma
14:38 Choosing the Right Exercise for Asthma
16:04 Medications and Asthma Management During Exercise
20:50 The Importance of Exercise for Asthma Management
21:14 Weight Loss and Asthma Control
22:23 Using Peak Flow Meters
22:57 Listener Questions: Natural Therapies and Triggers
26:20 Listener Questions: Exercise and Asthma Control
28:11 Dr. Kaplan's Career and Motivation
31:57 A Life-Changing Asthma Story
36:23 Final Thoughts and Advice
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