Still, many parents, sports coaches and doctors who aren't respiratory specialists either don't know that exercise can be helpful for kids with asthma, or they don't routinely talk about exercise with their patients.

WSJ: Kids With Asthma Play Hard, Too

Asthma attacks can be brought on by exercise, cold and other triggers, says Shawna Strickland, a respiratory therapist and an associate executive director of the American Association for Respiratory Care.

WSJ: Kids With Asthma Play Hard, Too

Engaging in new behaviors to enhance our health like regular exercise will lead to improved muscle tone, cardiac function, stronger bones, better respiratory function, more balanced emotions and calmer nerves, greater mental clarity and a better night's sleep.

CNN: Manage your brain -- it's your most important asset