What could be causing my becoming winded during exercise?

[ChicagoGuy1977]

I'm 30 years old and male. Yesterday I went to the gym and attempted to run on the treadmill for 30 minutes. Only, I didn't even make it past 7 minutes. I became short of breath and my chest would feel tight and start to hurt whenever I would take a breath. After I stopped the treadmill the pain and shortness of breath continued. What could be causing this? This isn't the first time I've experienced these symptoms while exercising.
I also develop a cough.

 

[That's what she said]

If you're just beginning to work out, this is not uncommon. Take it slow, start with your comfort level, and gradually move up. Don't try to over do it.

 

[Sarah]

What kind of exercise do you do, and how often do you do it? Are you usually able to run on the treadmill for 30 minutes, or is this your first time? If you aren't in very good shape, becoming winded at first is to be expected but should decrease with time. I'm in pretty good shape, but when I push myself really hard, I get winded too. That's kind of the point though - exercise isn't supposed to be easy. But if you are getting abnormally winded for your fitness level, see a doctor.