Staying active is an important part of combatting MS symptoms, but MS symptoms can make it difficult to exercise. So what can you do to keep in shape and increase mobility when symptoms are at their worst? Here are 4 good exercises for people with MS that are low-impact. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to get started when you choose an activity that doesn’t make your symptoms worse.
Walking
Walking is one of the best exercises available, because our bodies were designed to spend a lot of time moving from one place to another. Our sedentary lifestyles have gotten in the way of this, and our bodies actually prefer walking around a lot more than most of us currently do. Walking is also one of the easiest exercises to incorporate into your daily routine. Park further from the grocery store. Take the stairs rather than taking the elevator. Walk the dog each evening or walk around the park while talking to a friend. There are many apps and digital tools to help you track your steps throughout the day if you’d like to see progress — and this can even be turned into a fun competition with yourself!
Yoga
MS can lead to mobility issues, and yoga is one of the greatest ways to combat them. Taking your first yoga class may be intimidating, but you can also do yoga from your own living room. Find poses online and start simple. Remember that it’s all about breathing and being steady. Stretch yourself, but never push too hard, as yoga isn’t meant to feel like you’re running a marathon. If you are struggling with limited mobility, there are even yoga moves you can do while sitting down.
Swimming and Water Aerobics
Swimming is an excellent cardio and endurance workout. Because you’re in the water, you also won’t have to worry about overheating, which can cause flare-ups for many MSers. If you don’t love swimming, try water aerobics. You’ll benefit from the decreased stress on your joints and the body cooling water, but still get the excitement of an aerobics class. Whatever you choose to do, exercising in a pool is one of the best ways to stay active with limited mobility, as the water will make it easier to move your body.
Interested in more ideas for being active this year? Check out these 5 simple and energizing exercises to fight MS fatigue. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to exercise your brain, too.