Effects of Walking on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in Four Asthmatic Children
The effect of walking on peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) of four asthmatic children is reported. Subjects 1 and 2 exercised three days per week and Subjects 3 and 4 exercised two days per week during this 9-mo. study. Subjects 1 and 3 exercised for 10 wk., did not exercise for 11 wk., and exercised again for 11 wk. Subjects 2 and 4 did not exercise for 10 wk., exercised for 11 wk., and again did not exercise for 11 wk., Subjects 1, 2, and 4 had a higher mean PEFR during exercise than during no exercise, and Subject 3 had a lower mean PEFR during exercise than during no exercise. These results suggest that walking may positively influence PEFR of selected asthmatic children if factors such as environment, allergies, and medication side-effects can be controlled.