I have heard from many in the ARDS Community who have lamented the problem of deconditioning post ARDS and what to do once their physical therapy has concluded. I realize that for many, the cost for a fitness center may be prohibitive. But at this time of year, for most, you can find a time of the day to go outside and walk... Walking is incredible exercise and it is a superb way to begin your fitness program.

If you can find another person to walk with, great! How much better to pass the time while talking with a friend or family member or even your pet while getting in some good, old fashioned exercise. But if not, maybe music is your cup of tea. Or listening to nature. Or clearing your head to think about the day ahead or the day that has past.

And as you begin to exercise day after day, you might find yourself beginning to feel better in other ways.

This is great advice for all of us. When the weather permits I try to walk every day.....no I'm not walking several miles just a little more each week. For those days when the weather just doesn't cooperate I take my walks indoors on an inexpensive manual treadmill. You start out at your own pace and increase the distance and time as your fitness improves. So, year round I still get my walking in every day.