So I’m a runner and one of the road blocks that pops up from time to time is that my legs feel fine, but my lungs just can’t keep up with the speed. I’ve noticed after a hard run, I get a sort of cough and a bit of mucous build up like I’ve damaged my lungs in a way. Is this the same process as other muscles? Create little micro tears in muscle, body sends nutrients to site of damage, tears recover, muscle gets bigger and stronger. Or is there something else at play that makes our lungs stronger over time?
In: Biology
Coughing and mucus are not, in themselves, a bad thing.
Aerosolized metabolic waste comes out of our lungs with every exhale. Also environmental toxins can enter our lungs. When you breathe deeply and exercise, this stimulates the lungs to throw off waste. That’s what mucus is for. It’s the bodyguard that escorts the waste out, hopefully without damage. Its a good sign. Ideally you want to see thicker darker blobs of mucus surrounded in lots of runny clear mucous. Think of it as a bonus inner shower. Your lungs will get stronger as they are detoxified. If possible, don’t wear a mask while exercising.
Your lungs get stronger by being challenged and having the nutrients to respond. Micro-tears can happen in the lungs but are not helpful in this case. Mostly they happen from dry air forcing through dry tissues, causing abrasion on delicate tracheal tissue. Stay hydrated, take electrolytes and your ACES. Try to bring up any mucus gently. Most important: practice deep breathing exercises such as yogic breath or wim hof breathing.
The lungs will benefit from the growth of blood vessels throughout the lungs. Tiny blood vessels around each alveoli are stimulated by exercise that puts you into a temporary oxygen debt. So push yourself hard aerobically for at least 20 secs 3× per workout. Ie: go hard until you’re gasping for breath, just for a short time, about 3 times per workout.
Human growth hormone will enhance the growth of the lungs. Your body makes hgh in response to exercise, sleep, relaxation, fasting, meditation and play.
Stay away from stress triggers on your lungs until they get stronger( cold air, high histamine food, pollution). Get an inhaler if you can’t seem to avoid it.
There are plants that can help strengthen lungs Unexpressed grief can be held in the lungs.
I hope this helps!
Latest Answers