Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. It can cause muscle weakness, fatigue, and difficulty with coordination and balance. While there is no cure for MS, exercise — and resistance training in particular — has been shown to have a positive impact on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
The benefits of resistance training for people with MS
Resistance training involves working against resistance to build strength and improve muscle tone, using weights, bands or other equipment. For people with MS, the benefits include:
- Improved muscle strength — especially valuable where MS has caused weakness.
- Increased endurance — making daily activities easier to perform.
- Better balance and coordination — reducing the risk of falls and injury.
- Improved mood — exercise can help relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Developing a program
Before starting, work with your physiotherapist or exercise physiologist to determine which exercises and equipment are safe and appropriate for you. Generally it is recommended to start with light weights and gradually increase resistance as you get stronger, including exercises for both the upper and lower body as well as core stability. At Aevum, we have specialised equipment to provide comprehensive support for people with MS. Every individual's experience is unique — what works for one person may not suit another, so it is vital to monitor your body's response and adjust accordingly.
Safety considerations
Avoid exercises that trigger symptoms. Some movements may bring on fatigue or weakness. Find the level of exercise that challenges you enough to gain benefit without crashing afterward.
Start with light weights. Build resistance gradually to reduce injury risk and progress safely.
Stay hydrated. Exercise can cause dehydration, so drink before, during and after each session.
Manage core temperature. Heat sensitivity is common in MS. At Aevum we allow for plenty of fans, airflow and regular cool-down breaks, and we use a Game Ready Med4 Elite chilled-water vest to rapidly cool an individual and get the most out of each session.
Final thoughts
Resistance training can deliver real benefits for people with MS — improved strength, endurance, balance, coordination and mood. With the right approach, guided by a clinician experienced in the area, it can be a valuable tool for managing symptoms and improving overall quality of life. Get in touch to discuss a program built around you.