Contradictory findings have been reported in the literature on the impact that bronchial asthma may have on habitual physical activity. The present study was designed to compare physical activity, objectively measured with an activity monitor, between adults with bronchial asthma and apparently healthy controls.

Valid registrations of physical activity were obtained in 226 patients with asthma and 201 healthy controls. A multiple general linear model was used to test between group differences and to correct for confounding of the results due to between group differences in BMI and employment status.

In the patients, statistically significantly lower values were found for average steps/day (−1202; CI −1893 to −511; P = 0.001), physical activity level based on an estimate of a person's total energy expenditure (−0.035; CI −0.067 to −0.003); P = 0.034) and daily time (minutes) spent at vigorous intensive physical activity (−11; CI −17 to −1; P < 0.001). In addition, weak albeit significant correlations were found between measures of physical activity and asthma control.

We conclude that bronchial asthma in adults is associated with a significant reduction in physical activity as compared to apparently healthy controls and is accompanied by a lower perceived health status. This is in support of the postulation of PA as potential pathway to better the outcome of care for these patients.