This research project incorporates a series of studies to investigate the relationship between physical performance (e.g. tests of strength, balance and walking distance) and physical activity (activity measured in day to day life) in people with COPD and other chronic lung diseases.

The research project incorporates the following components:

Study 1) A prospective, observational study, to assess the relationship between a comprehensive set of measures of walking ability, strength and balance, and daily physical activity in people with chronic lung disease. Patients will attend a single assessment session to evaluate physical capacity. They will also wear a physical activity monitor for a week following completing these tests to assess physical activity and aspects of physical performance. Participants will also be invited to return two months later to provide evidence about the repeatability of measurements.

Study 2) A parallel study comparing assessment of performance during six-minute walk tests by an observer to a semi-automated assessment using an activity monitor worn by the patient. This will involve a single visit and be carried out during walking tests carried out as part of routine clinical care.

Study 3) A qualitative study to investigate experiences and perceptions of participants of dance groups for people with chronic lung disease, as a novel form of physical activity. This will be used to inform the design of subsequent trials of dance interventions for chronic lung disease.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults with stable chronic lung disease
• Able to understand instructions.
• Age and sex matched healthy controls.

Exclusion Criteria:

• For the main study, the presence of other comorbidities causing a significant reduction in mobility (for example stroke with neurological deficits, severe arthritis, significant peripheral neuropathy, significant visual impairment, dementia etc.).
• exacerbation of lung disease within the last 2 months.

Adults with stable chronic lung disease.