Breaking the Stigma: Why Carrying an Inhaler Should Be as Normal as Wearing Running Shoes

For years, inhalers have been seen as a sign of weakness—something only used in emergencies or hidden away in gym bags. But for the millions of athletes with asthma, an inhaler is as essential as a good pair of running shoes. It’s time to break the stigma and normalize carrying an inhaler in sports and fitness.

Many people associate asthma with limitations, picturing someone gasping for air on the sidelines. But did you know that world-class athletes like marathoners, Olympians, and professional football players have asthma? The truth is, asthma doesn’t define an athlete’s potential—lack of preparation does.

Carrying an inhaler isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of responsibility. Just as runners fuel up with electrolytes or cyclists carry spare tubes, people with asthma should have their inhalers within reach at all times.

Famous Athletes Who Prove Asthma Isn’t a Barrier

If you need proof that asthma doesn’t have to hold you back, just look at these elite athletes:

Paula Radcliffe – The world champion marathon runner has asthma and still broke records, including the fastest women’s marathon time (2:15:25) in 2003.

Jackie Joyner-Kersee – One of the greatest female athletes of all time, the Olympic gold medalist in track and field didn’t let asthma stop her from dominating her sport.

David Beckham – The soccer legend has had asthma since childhood but played at the highest level, leading England and winning championships worldwide.

Jerome Bettis – The Hall of Fame NFL running back, nicknamed "The Bus," played 13 seasons while managing his asthma on the field.

Chris Froome – A four-time Tour de France winner, Froome competes at the highest level of endurance cycling while effectively managing his asthma.

These athletes didn’t hide their condition—they managed it by carrying their inhalers, taking the necessary precautions, and pushing their limits.

Why the Stigma Exists (And How It Affects Athletes at Every Level)

A big part of the problem is visibility. Inhalers are often stuffed into backpacks, left in cars, or even forgotten at home because they don’t feel like a natural part of an athlete’s gear. Unlike a water bottle or a smartwatch, inhalers don’t have a built-in carrying solution—until now.

But the stigma runs deep and affects athletes at all ages and skill levels:

For Young Athletes:

Many kids feel self-conscious about using an inhaler during practice or games, worried about standing out or looking "weak."

A lack of understanding from coaches or teammates can lead to kids avoiding their inhaler altogether, which can be dangerous.

Some children quit sports entirely because they feel asthma makes them "less of an athlete."

For Recreational and Adult Athletes:

Many adults with asthma hesitate to take up running, cycling, or group fitness because they worry about slowing down the group or being judged for needing an inhaler break.

Asthma stigma in adult recreational leagues means some athletes push through symptoms rather than managing them properly.

Fitness culture often glorifies pushing limits, leading to a mindset where using an inhaler is seen as a crutch rather than a tool for success.

For Competitive and Elite Athletes:

Some professionals and collegiate athletes avoid being open about their asthma out of fear it will be seen as a liability by coaches or sponsors.

Performance pressure can lead to dangerous choices, like skipping an inhaler dose before a race or game to "tough it out."

The lack of visible inhaler use among pro athletes reinforces the idea that it’s something to hide rather than a normal part of sports.

How Coaches, Trainers, and Athletes Can Help Break the Cycle

The way we talk about asthma in sports culture matters. Coaches, trainers, and even fellow athletes play a major role in breaking the stigma.

Here’s how we can change the narrative:

Coaches should actively support athletes with asthma by making inhaler use as routine as hydration breaks. No athlete should feel embarrassed to take care of their breathing.

Recreational athletes can set an example by using their inhalers openly, showing others that managing asthma isn’t a weakness.

Fitness influencers and professionals can help normalize inhaler use by talking about their own experiences and showing that asthma doesn’t define an athlete’s potential.

Making Inhalers Part of Your Routine

If we want to change the perception of inhaler use, we have to treat it like any other essential sports gear. That’s one of the reasons we created the Puff On Pace ActiveBand—a comfortable, secure wristband designed to hold an inhaler so that athletes can access it immediately, without breaking their stride.

By integrating an inhaler into your workout routine—just like stretching, warming up, and hydrating—you not only stay safer but also send a powerful message: prioritizing health is part of being an athlete.

Influencers and Podcasts Breaking the Stigma

Influencers Leading the Charge

Heather Lake (@heatherlaketv) A mother of two and marathon runner, Heather shares her journey from managing pediatric asthma to achieving athletic milestones. Her story inspires others to overcome asthma-related challenges.

Athletes vs Asthma (@athletesvasthma) This not-for-profit organization collaborates with athletes, celebrities, and influencers to fund research, education, and outreach. Their mission is to promote early detection and support for those affected by asthma.

Podcasts Breaking the Stigma

"Beyond the Wheeze" by Josh Rheaume This podcast delves into personal stories and expert insights, aiming to demystify asthma and empower listeners with knowledge and support.

GINA Podcasts The Global Initiative for Asthma offers discussions with clinical experts on asthma management, providing valuable insights for both patients and healthcare professionals.

Final Thoughts

No one would ever question a runner for carrying water, so why should an inhaler be any different? Let’s shift the conversation and make carrying an inhaler a normal, smart, and respected part of being an athlete.

Are you ready to change the way we think about inhalers in sports? Share your story in the comments and tag @PuffOnPace on social media to join the movement!