I'm trying to find some form of excercise that I can get into. I'm not in good shape and hate to do it. I've tried using weights and I feel horrible within a few days of doing it and get symptoms. Yoga is generally good, but I'd like to do more, as it can be boring. I was doing Pilates with a trainer but that got too expensive and I can't do it right on my own. Aerobic exercise is too strenuous. At the moment I'm trying out the Fluidity system. What have you tried? How have you felt?
2007-04-06 03:32:52 · 6 answers · asked by Michele 1 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Other - Diseases
I participated in an exercise study for people with MS at the University of Florida. The program consisted of strength training using machines. The exercises were targeted at the muscles that help you stand with stability. We did exercises on the legs (three different types), abdomen and lower back. Because we worked with personal trainers the amount of weights we lifted was carefully monitored and increased at a reasonable pace. I joined a gym after the study was over and continued these same exercises because I felt great -- better than I had in years.
I can't really do aerobics either -- it puts too much pressure on my hips. I do yoga but mostly at home in the morning just to get my muscles stretched out. I go to a weekly class and just do those exercises that I can do. (The instructor knows my situation and doesn't push me or make me feel bad for sitting out on certain poses -- especially those that rely on strong hips, my weak spot.) I get bored in class too, which is probably why I only go once a week.
My favorite exercise is in the pool. Our YMCA had a class last spring for people with MS and it was great -- it was cool and easy but I sure could feel the benefits afterward. I am waiting for the class to start back up later this month.
What do I do the most? I walk. I don't walk fast and I don't try to. In addition to the pool exercises, my doctor told me this is the best way for me to stay in shape. As long as I can do it regularly, at least 3-4 times per week, it is helping me. Keeping the body moving is the most important, not trying to fit into someone else's ideal pattern of workouts. You have to listen to your body. If you feel worse, especially several days after doing a particular exercise, stop and find something else or modify what you are doing to feel better.
I like walking in different areas -- parks, the mall. Got to keep it interesting. And I figure as long as I can keep taking those steps I'm doing great. (And stay cool -- overheating will bring on symptoms and make you feel much worse.)
By the way, I was diagnosed nine years ago. I am still mobile, don't use any aids. I have hip pain from carrying babies and from spasticity, which is why I am gentle on myself. But I made a pledge to keep moving and I don't keep a scorecard on myself because I know there will be days when I just don't feel up to doing much. I celebrate the victories as they come -- not dwell on missed opportunities.
Just keep moving. And if you want to try strength training, keep it simple and don't try to increase your weights too fast. And try the pool, too.
Good luck!
2007-04-06 05:52:35 · answer #1 · answered by maurerlady 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on your MS. I attend the gym 4-5 time a week AND just bought a road bike. I have been on Avonex for almost 3 years and normally relax the day after an injection. My suggestion is if you have cable the Fit TV has several high impact and low impact exercise programs daily that might help. And as for those weights your suppose to take a break and do some cardio (walking, running or treadmill) in between working with weights. Good Luck in whatever works for your fitness goal!
2007-04-06 12:23:02 · answer #2 · answered by movielover63043 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I go to the local YMCA where they have a free half-hour exercise class specifically designed for people with MS. The buoyancy of water makes working out incredibly easy. I usually go to the pool an hour before the exercise class starts and swim laps for 45 minutes. Afterward, I feel absolutely fabulous. Why don't you call the local National MS Society to find out what programs they have in your area? I find them to be a wonderful resource. And if you can't afford the programs they have, many of the chapters across the country have scholarship programs available. I also walk my dogs three times a day, and that adds up to about a mile of easy exercise. My best to you.
2007-04-07 14:02:09 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have MS and do a full work out...but one day I do legs..the next day I do arms...next day I do cardio. I made an appointment with a trainer and told him about the MS and together we made up a good exercise program...slowly building it up..I only started out with one plate/weight 5pounds..I am very much out of shape and I couldn't kill myself because from experience I wouldn't be able to walk the next few days :)
There is also water aerobics you can check into. That is fantastic and it is less of an impact on your body but works everything.
2007-04-06 16:05:02 · answer #4 · answered by SpringBreeze 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My aunt has MS and she does Pilates. She claims its a godsend. Get a Pilates dvd off of Amazon.com, it's pretty cheap. Try Windsor Pilates.
2007-04-06 11:07:06 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
i don't have ms but one of my best friends does.
she likes yoga as long as it's not too hard but
she does also does free walking and dance meditation.
www.dancemeditation.org
2007-04-06 10:40:43 · answer #6 · answered by Sufi 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋