Exercise & physical activity

Find out about doing exercise and physical activity on the Overcoming MS Program.

If you’re living with MS, evidence shows that physical activity can benefit you physically, emotionally and cognitively.

Physical activity has various benefits: it supports brain health, improves mobility and balance, aids good quality sleep, and has a positive impact on symptoms like fatigue, pain, and mood.

As incorporating regular exercise and movement into your routine is so crucial for people with MS, it is important to find exercise that works for you and that you enjoy. We are here to support you in embracing all types of physical activity with confidence, including cardio, strength, resistance training or other types of movement, at a level that is right for you.

“I’ve never been a big sports fan but I do know I need (and enjoy!) exercise, so I found all these little ways to incorporate it in my day.” Ineke, Overcoming MS community member.

How to get moving

Make sure you consider any MS symptoms when choosing your physical activity and use our helpful resources, suitable for a range of levels.

Our 6 months to Overcoming MS Program in the Live Well Hub helps you develop an exercise routine step-by-step. Why not try it?

“The post-MS version of myself realizes that regular movement is more important now than ever. And in order for exercise to be a regular part of my life, it needs to be enjoyable and sustainable.” Nicole, community member.

Guided exercise videos The Overcoming MS guide to getting fit podcast episode Overcoming MS exercise planner

Tips and ideas for physical activity

Why is exercise important?

Exercise is vital for just about everyone, but it’s especially important for people with multiple sclerosis.

What are my exercise options?

Being physically active is vital for people with multiple sclerosis. Fortunately, there are various ways in which you can move your body.

Things to consider when working out with MS

Exercise is a key part of the Overcoming MS Program. You should pick whatever form you enjoy and works for you. Here are some tips for getting started.

A list of exercise tips for MS

Exercise is a vital part of the Overcoming MS lifestyle program. There is a large body of evidence demonstrating the positive effect of exercise for pwMS, so here are some tips to help you understand how different exercise styles help with different MS symptoms.

MS Exercise Tips For Balance Symptoms

Whether you suffer from vertigo or feel unsteady on your feet because of poor coordination and/or muscle weakness, this can have a significant impact on your day-to-day life. Although exercising can help, we tend to feel nervous or apprehensive when our balance is poor.

Exercising with progressive MS

Here is some advice for those with progressive MS and how best to exercise.

How Yoga Can Help Bladder Symptoms

No, exercise is not a miraculous cure for everything, and doing 10 yoga triangle poses a day will not solve all your problems. But yoga does offer useful tools to keep your pelvic floor and bladder healthy.

Stretches to improve spasticity

Spasticity might affect your ability to exercise but the good news is that stretching can help decrease the impact of spasticity.

Strength and mobility core exercises for people with MS

Exercise is important for people with MS. Here are some exercises for better strength, stability and mobility that you can try out.

Exercising at (or close to) home

This webinar was recorded 9 June 2020. Veronique Gauthier-Simmon presents on the topic of exercise and what you can do at home.

Exercises for people with MS who are wheelchair users

Exercising with MS can be a challenge, and even more so if you are in a wheelchair, but it is vital for your health. Read on for exercise ideas at home for MS wheelchair users.

Four ways to modify any exercise

"I’m a firm believer that anyone with MS, no matter what level of mobility they possess, can exercise. What makes me so confident? I know all the different ways modifications are possible!"

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