I have been training regularly since March and still find myself breathing very hard on hill climbs - not short of breath but struggling - this is at the blistering hill climbing pace of 4 MPH. Hit 173 on the HRM too. My lungs just feel tight, like they aren't opening up fully. Actually, on longer climbs, I seem to get a second wind after the first 1/4 mile and breathing becomes easier.

This is also after trying to follow a hill climbing program of intervals for 3 weeks.

I have spring asthma - mild. I was on Advir for it, and I took a hit of Advir before my Sunday ride and actually felt better in the lung department.

One of my friends who is a gym teacher suggested that I cross train by running to improve my breathing - what does everyone think of that?

Anyone have a similar experience or have an opinion on what might help?

Thanks!