Sport helps quit smoking

Active exercise and endurance sports help smokers to give up their vice

11/24/2011

Smoking is one of the most widespread vices in the Western world. For many, not only because of the nicotine habit is problematic to stop. Smoking is often used as a ritual for relaxation and for switching off. The German Lung Foundation e.V. in Hanover advises to sport. He distracts and helps to give up the addiction.

Regular exercise reduces the risk of relapse
According to a recent study by the West Virginia University School of Medicine, the risk of relapsing and starting to smoke again is reduced by a regular exercise program. The study looked at 233 smokers between the ages of 14 and 19 years. Especially male smokers would relapse less often if they completed a regular fitness program, the researchers report.

Sporting activity also has a positive effect on general well-being and improves the breathing power weakened by smoking. Endurance sports such as swimming and cycling according to the German Lung Foundation are particularly suitable. This also reduces the cravings for sweets that many former smokers suffer from.

Smoking is considered the main cause of COPD
Although it is well known that smoking is considered to be the main cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the massive health risk does not seem to have any impact on the German tobacco industry. Reemtsma, the largest tobacco company in this country, reported its record result from the past financial year: the Group is investing over one billion euros. (Ag)

Picture: Rainer Sturm