Multiple Sclerosis (MS) & Exercise

Over the past 10 years, many studies have shown that exercise is beneficial for people with MS. Our center firmly believes that exercise can help improve both function and quality of life for people with MS. However, we realize that exercise can often be even harder for people with MS than it is for others. Just remember, start small and stay positive!

Here are some resources to help you with exercise:

National MS Society:

The National MS Society (NMSS) has many videos and webcasts about exercise. Please click some of the links below to find out more information about exercise from the NMSS, including specific exercises.

• NMSS Main Exercise Page
• Bicycling Information
• Physical Fitness from Home
• Purchase a Video about Yoga in MS

Remember to check out your local NMSS chapter resources. The local chapters often host swimming and yoga classes for people with MS (many are even free). To find out more about classes your local chapter may offer go to the NMSS main webpage, click on “Find a Chapter” at the top. Select your state and click on “Programs and Services” from your local chapter’s website.

The National Center on Physical Activity and Disability:

The National Center on Physical Activity and Disability (NCPAD) has many resources and videos for purchase to help people with disabilities exercise. Check out the exercise section of the NCPAD website. You can also follow the link to purchase videos from them.

The MS Workbook:

In our MS Workbook, we included a chapter on health-promoting behaviors. This chapter has a little bit of information about exercise. Follow the link to download this chapter (PDF) of our workbook.

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