Exercise classes
Our exercise classes are specifically designed to help people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) improve the impact of symptoms, stay active at home and improve overall wellbeing. These classes offer accessible exercises for all abilities providing you with the confidence to identify and practice the exercises that are right for you independently.
The classes are delivered by our Exercise Specialist, Alan Pearson who has over 10 years experience working with people affected by MS. The class also provides an opportunity for you to connect with like-minded people and meet others affected by MS.
MS-UK has worked closely with those affected by MS to develop these classes and have shaped them based on the feedback we have received from our previous online sessions since we launched the classes in January 2021.
About the classes
There are six classes held on Zoom every week with each class focusing on different components of exercise and types of training. The specific focus will include improving cardiovascular endurance (aerobic exercise), strength (resistance training), flexibility (stretching) and coordination. We will also include a focus on problem areas such as drop foot, balance and posture to name a few.
These classes are not ‘just another class aimed at increasing breathing rate and moving a weight around’. Instead, the primary aim is to develop strength, flexibility, coordination and cardiovascular endurance which can help improve your daily function and achieve your optimum mobility. What you learn and the strength you gain in these classes can help you with day-to-day activities at home.
When?
Classes will be held live on Tuesdays and Thursdays and are categorised based on the individual’s ability. The classes will be structured as follows
- Level one (11:00am – 11:30am) will focus on exercises for those who are seated, have trunk (core) weakness and have limited upper limb movement
- Level two (11:45am – 12:15pm) for those who can transfer independently but may require assistance or the use of a walking aid
- Level three (12:30pm – 1:00pm) for those who mobilise independently with minimal impairment
Individuals are welcome to attend more than one session on a given day.
How to take part?
To join one of our classes, please visit our portal area to register. We have a subscription covering monthly and yearly options that allow access to all our online activities, plus an option to donate per class. The donations are important to ensure we can deliver and sustain online classes in the future.
If you would like to know more about the session or need help registering, email register@ms-uk.org.
About Alan
The classes will be taken by Alan Pearson who is a level 4 Exercise Specialist for individuals with long-term neurological conditions. Alan has been working within the health and fitness industry for over 20 years, specifically with people with MS for more than ten years here at MS-UK.
Alan has a wealth of knowledge and expertise that enables him to design, develop and deliver professional services for MS-UK to ensure those living with MS can stay independent, improve their function and maintain a stable condition.
See what participants had to say
“I have been to two of level 3 classes and must say I am impressed. To find a class that suits me is rare and level is hard enough to feel like I am getting a real workout”
“It’s been so nice to be in a class, where the facilitator understands neurological problems of balance and stiffness as well as the variation in symptoms.”
