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Physical activity (PA) has been seen to improve asthma symptoms, lung function, and quality of life, as well as to reduce airway inflammation and bronchial responsiveness. As a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the minimal amount of PA recommended by the World Health Organization—i.e., about 60 min/day of moderate-to-high intensity—is difficult to achieve for many children, particularly those living in urban areas. Short-term changes in PA because of the COVID-19 pandemic may become habitual, increasing the risk of adverse asthma outcomes in children. Indeed, prolonged home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic reduces PA levels and increases sedentary behaviors, possibly impairing immune system function and increasing susceptibility to inflammatory diseases. However, there is limited evidence regarding the effects of lockdown due to COVID-19 on PA and sedentary behaviors in asthmatic children. Given that children stay longer indoors, indoor air pollution represents a major issue to consider during home confinement. This narrative review aims to summarize the available evidence about the impact of decreased PA and increased sedentary behaviors on children with asthma during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, strategies for supporting PA in children with asthma during the COVID-19 pandemic are suggested, also looking at the issue of indoor air quality.

Background: a reduced aerobic capacity and functional mobility have been observed in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD)and it may contribute to exercise limitations. Aim of the study: evaluate the effects of 12 weeks supervised and personalized training program, by qualified staff, on aerobic capacity and functional mobility in CHD subjects. Material and methods: We studied 8 CHD patients, 5 male and 3 female, mean age 25.1±2.1yrs(range 12-40). They underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing, lung function tests, echocardiography (tab.1)and blood tests before and after 12 weeks exercise training program performed in a gym of our hospital. The training included a combined functional and aerobic exercise program, 3 times/week, to improve aerobic capacity, muscle strength and functional mobility. Results: In the tab. 2 we see the parameters measured (mean± SD)before and after 12 weeks training program. VO2max and MET significantly increased after the exercise training. We also observed a reduction in the serum triglycerides level after exercise program. Conclusion: preliminary findings indicate that a combined functional mobility and aerobic exercise can be safely tolerated by CHD patients and improve maximal aerobic (VO2max) and muscle strength and functional mobility.

Introduction: Physical activity in Cystic Fibrosis (CF) patients improve aerobic capacity and pulmonary function, but the two factors that seem associated with survival in CF are resting pulmonary function and nutritional status.Is little known the relationship between airways obstruction and physical fitness. Aim of the study: was to evaluate the influence of physical activity (hours/week) and airway obstruction on the aerobic capacity, exercise tolerance and ventilatory pattern in CF patients compared to a control group. Material and methods: we enrolled 20 CF patients,mean age 13.8 ±2.4 divided in two Groups in relation to hours of physical activity: trained (T) ≥3 hours/week (n=12); untrained(U)