This type of exercise came top for fighting fatigue for people with MS

A new analysis suggests that resistance training may be one of the most helpful ways to ease fatigue for people living with multiple sclerosis. The research also found that programmes running for more than eight weeks offered the greatest benefit.

Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of MS, and it can affect daily life in many ways. Many people also experience changes in strength, balance, coordination and walking. Although medical treatments play an important role, exercise is often recommended alongside them as a supportive way to feel stronger and more in control.

Researchers in China reviewed 31 previous trials involving 1,232 people living with MS. These studies looked at a wide mix of activities including resistance training, aerobic exercise, aquatic sessions, mind body practices and hippotherapy which is exercise supported by horses. Sessions ranged from once a week to daily programmes.

Across the studies, several forms of exercise helped ease fatigue more than standard care. Resistance training stood out as the most effective, especially when it involved weight-based movements or resistance bands. The researchers noted that this type of training is safest when guided by a qualified professional who can support technique and tailor the activity to each person.

Programmes lasting longer than eight weeks led to even greater improvements. The analysis also found early signs that hippotherapy and coordination training may help reduce fatigue, although more high quality studies are needed to confirm this.

Quality of life scores did not rise across all participants, although women taking part in resistance training did show meaningful improvements. This suggests some forms of exercise may offer specific benefits for particular groups.

The researchers concluded that resistance training currently appears to offer the strongest evidence for easing fatigue and may also support a more positive sense of wellbeing. They added that other approaches, such as hippotherapy, show promise and deserve further study.

If you are thinking about trying resistance training or any new type of exercise, it can be helpful to speak with a health professional first to explore what feels right for your body and your MS.

Why not take a look at our Fatigue Choices Booklet? It’s packed with information on how to manage this common MS symptom.