Common questions about pulmonary rehabilitation (PR)

Here you can find answers to some of the questions or concerns you may have about pulmonary rehabilitation.

You can talk through any questions or concerns with healthcare advisors from our Prepare for PR service. To arrange a call, check the details in the letter we sent you or contact the team on 0300 222 5800 and press 4.

Common questions

Do I have to pay?

No. PR is offered for free through the NHS . Our Prepare for PR service is also free.

How long does PR take?

PR is normally 2 sessions a week that last around 2 hours each. The course will last around 6 weeks. Your PR team will also encourage you to do some activities at home in between sessions.

What if I am too breathless to do the exercises?

PR activities will be adapted for you and experts will support you throughout PR. You can talk to us if you have any worries about this.

Can I bring somebody with me?

Yes, you are welcome to bring a family member or carer.

What should I wear to PR?

Your assessment and PR sessions involve physical activity, so it’s a good idea to wear:

  • loose fitting clothing that you can move around in
  • layers of clothing, so you can remove layers if you get warm while exercising
  • flat, comfortable shoes or trainers.

What should I bring?

Because PR involves being physically active, remember to bring:

  • any medicines you take, for example, your reliever inhaler, oxygen or glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) tablets or spray
  • water or a soft drink in case you get thirsty
  • a walking aid, hearing aids, a handheld fan, or reading glasses if you use these.

Can I get time off work for PR?

The law says your work has to give you time off for medical appointments if they know about your COPD and how it affects you. Our Prepare for PR service can help you think about how to talk to your work about this.

Questions to ask your PR team

All PR courses are run using the same national guidelines, but each PR team in the UK may do things slightly differently. To get specific answers to some of the questions below, it might be best to speak to your individual PR team.

Can I change the times of my sessions?

This will depend on whether there are other sessions available in your area. Ask your PR team what your options are.

What happens if I miss a session?

Most PR teams ask that you let them know in advance if you will miss a session, but may not allow you to miss too many. Ask your PR team about their attendance policy.

Where will I need to go?

PR usually takes place in a local hospital, community hall or leisure centre.

Can I get help getting to PR?

Our Prepare for PR service can help you look into your transport options. Your PR team may also be able to tell you if there are local patient transport services you can use.

I have other health conditions or a disability, can I do PR?

At your assessment, your PR team will ask about your health so that they can see if PR is right for you. If you are invited to start PR, let your team know if you need them to make any changes to the session to help you take part.

Is there a women-only class, or a class in my language?

Some PR teams are able to help with this. Ask your PR Team what your options are.

Can I do PR at home?

You’ll get the most out of PR if you go in person, but some PR teams might be able to offer you PR at home. Even if you can do PR at home, your assessment will usually need to be in person. Ask if there’s a home-based option at your assessment.