Multiple Sclerosis and Exercise: What You Need to Know to Stay Strong, Mobile, and Independent

Sheryl Sarmiento Wheeler
Jun 8
3 min read

Movement Is Medicine for MS

Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can feel frustrating and uncertain. You may feel like rest is safer than movement, especially on days when fatigue or numbness flare up. But avoiding movement can make symptoms worse over time.

Exercise is one of the most powerful tools to manage MS symptoms and maintain independence. At Exercise Matters, we help people with MS use movement as medicine—safely and effectively.

Why Is Exercise So Important for MS?

MS is a neurological condition where the immune system damages the protective covering of nerves, disrupting communication between the brain and body. This can cause:

Muscle weakness or spasticity
Poor balance or coordination
Chronic fatigue
Cognitive slowing

Exercise helps counteract these effects by improving:

Strength and muscle control
Energy levels and endurance
Balance and walking ability
Mood, memory, and sleep

What the Research Says

Pilutti et al. (2020): Exercise training significantly improves fatigue, physical fitness, and quality of life in MS patients.
Motl & Sandroff (2015): Regular physical activity can enhance neuroplasticity and may slow disease progression.
National MS Society: Encourages people with all forms of MS to engage in regular, structured physical activity.

Common Myths About MS and Exercise

Myth 1: Exercise will make my symptoms worse.

Truth: When done safely, exercise actually reduces symptom severity over time. We adapt sessions to match your daily energy levels.

Myth 2: I’m too tired to exercise.

Truth: Strategic movement can actually reduce fatigue by improving energy efficiency and circulation.

Myth 3: I can’t exercise because I have balance problems.

Truth: Exercise Physiology sessions include supported movements and balance drills designed to reduce fall risk.

How We Approach MS Exercise at Exercise Matters

Our programs are:

Individualised to your symptoms and daily variability
Designed to support mobility, independence, and energy levels
Adjusted around flares, medication, or heat sensitivity

We Focus On:

Strength Training: Resistance bands, light weights, or machines
Aerobic Training: Bike, rowing, or treadmill—adapted to fatigue levels
Balance Exercises: Step drills, wobble boards, or gait retraining
Core Stability: Essential for posture, walking, and fatigue control
Dual-Tasking: Cognitive challenges during physical tasks to improve brain-body coordination

Case Study: James, 48, Living with MS for 10 Years

James experienced increased falls and fatigue, and he was starting to withdraw from hobbies. With our program:

His walking speed improved by 28%
His fatigue scores dropped from 8/10 to 5/10
He returned to playing weekly social golf with modifications

"I thought my strength was gone for good. Now I know I just needed the right approach."

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should I exercise with MS?

2–3 structured sessions per week is a great place to start. We also encourage light movement on most days (walking, yoga, or stretching).

2. What should I avoid?

Overheating and overexertion. We monitor exertion and temperature to keep you safe.

3. Can I still benefit if I use a mobility aid?

Yes. We tailor exercises to your current level—seated, supported, or with assistive devices.

4. Do you provide home programs?

Yes. We provide simple, effective home-based options between sessions.

5. Is this covered by NDIS or private health?

Yes. We support NDIS, Medicare, and private health funding.

Take Control With Movement

MS doesn’t have to define your limits. Let us help you take back strength, balance, and confidence—one session at a time.

📞 Call (07) 5448 3532 🌐 www.exercisematters.healthcare

References:

Pilutti LA et al. (2020). Exercise training for multiple sclerosis. Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair.
Motl RW, Sandroff BM. (2015). Benefits of exercise in multiple sclerosis. Lancet Neurology.
National MS Society. (2022). Physical Activity and MS.