Exercise and physical fitness are of extreme importance for people with cystic fibrosis (PWCF). Not only is it a natural form of chest physiotherapy that increases lung capacity facilitating airway clearance, it is also instrumental for preserving mental well-being and quality of life.
One of the great things about exercise is that there are many activities that are free and accessible to all and often small changes to our lifestyle can greatly add to aerobic improvements.
We are very aware of the financial challenges that CF often present and as such have various financial supports available to our members which can help offset the cost of exercise. If you would like more information on our exercise grant, please visit our policy and guidelines page.
This year has seen changes to the exercise grant application and these changes are reflected in this Q&A document.
Please reach out to a member of the team for an application form and assistance in making an application.
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Exercise Opportunities
Exercise Education
Exercise Opportunities
The best way to enjoy and stick with regular physical activity is to suit yourself. Choose what you want to do, a place where you feel comfortable, and an exercise time that fits your schedule. Too often people think of exercise as serious business. It is fun too! Below are some free resources available that can easily be added to a weekly exercise regime.
1. Parkrun
One of the great things about exercise is that there are many activities that are free and accessible to all. For example, parkrun is a free weekly 2K and 5K community event in open spaces that is offered worldwide! This event was started 20 years ago and not only provides an opportunity to exercise but also the opportunity to be part of a network of people through weekly volunteering opportunities.
We are delighted to signpost our members into this event. Why not check out their website at www.parkrun.com to find out more information, find local events and become part of a worldwide exercise community and the Feel Good Movement.
2. Exercise at home
Physically active people are healthier and happier than people who are not. This is true for people of all ages and conditions. When pain or chronic health issues slow us down and complicate life, it is very easy to move less and be less physically active and/or give up. Even if you know that regular exercise and physical activity are important, with a chronic health condition sometimes trying new things or adapting our exercise routine can be beneficial. The following online exercise video have been complied by the HSE and are promoted through their living well programme (please consult with your physiotherapist prior to engaging with all new exercise programmes)
3. Helpful Exercise Resources - click to view these helpful exercise videos
- Aerobic exercise – 45 minutes for adults living with chronic conditions -
- Resistance exercise – 45 minutes for adults living with chronic conditions
- Chair exercises – 10 minutes for adults living with chronic disease
- Gentle exercise – 10 minutes for adults living with chronic disease
- Lower body resistance Part 1 – 10 minutes for adults living with chronic disease
- Lower body resistance Part 2 - 10 minutes for adults living with chronic disease
Exercise Education
We are delighted to be able to provide to you various speakers who insightfully join us online to share their knowledge and perspective on exercise from time to time. Quite often, by listening to others it can have a massive impact on our overall motivation.
CFI Yoga for Children June 2023
CFI Conference 2022 - Day 2 - Caroline Heffernan, PWCF/Endurance Athlete
CFI Conference 2022 day 2 - Exercise Panel Discussion with people with CF
Exercise and Motivation (Louise Collins, Physiotherapist, January 2024 presentation slides download - see below:
For further information about the Exercise Grant Scheme, please contact:
Member Services Team
Telephone: 01 496 2433
Email: memberservices@cfireland.ie
Last Updated: February 2025