1981 Volume 30 Issue 12 Pages 1157-1162
The effects of swimming and bicycle ergometer test on ventilatory functions were studied in 35 asthmatic children. The mean maximum heart rate was 81.3% of the values predicted for their ages in bicycle ergometer group and 88.3% in swimming group. Exercise-induced bronchospasms(EIB) were observed in 85.7% of the bicycle ergometer group and 37.1% of the swimming group. Maximum % decreases in ventilatory functions in the swimming test were less than those in the bicycle ergometer test statistically, except for forced vital capacity. EIB were sbserved in all of severe asthmatic subjects, but the magnitudes of the EIB caused by swimming were slight in severe asthmatics. We conclude that swimming seems to be a suitable sport for asthmatic children, although medical support is necessary for moderate and severe asthmatics.
