Multiple Sclerosis

51 rep

I am a 39 yr old wife and Mom of 4. I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis back in Jan 06'.I need to lose weight (baby steps) and have a long road ahead to make it to a healthy goal, but mostly I just want to feel better. I get fatigued easily and my legs are weak. Ive had my consultation with the trainer and everything seems to make sense so far. Does anyone else have any experience with MS or any tips they could share? I just joined the gym last week and so far, so good. Im really enjoying it!

498 rep

MemberMurrysville, PA

I do not have MS but have a good friend who does. She has found yoga very helpful. It has improved her strength and balance. She swears by it. I think that working with a trainer is such a great idea. Working with weights will help increase your muscle strength and rev up your metabolism, which will help with your weight loss. And cardio is very important for weight loss. Find one that you can do without difficulty -- perhaps the bike? -- and try to do a minimum of 30 minutes a day. Ask you trainer what to eat before and after workouts. You will probably be tired at first, but after a week or two you will find yourself feeling energized afterwards. Good luck!

51 rep

I tried the bike yesterday...not too bad. I dont think I can do 30 minutes yet, but I'll get there. My neurologist has suggested yoga many many times, but I always thought that was for "skinny" people. I have a "Yoga for beginners" DVD..maybe I'll give it a try. Thx Mary

217 rep

AlumniPlant City, FL

i was diagnosed with ms in september, and when i ased the neurologist if i can workout, it was a definite yes. i started again in january upon joining anytime fitness. i am now doing 45 minutes easily. i used to be a marathoner, and i can tell that the future looks great to be on that track again. that finish line will be so sweet. i just have to remember to not get too warm, and tired. the times are coming down for mile times which thrills me to death.

7 rep

MemberMichigan City, IN

I have had MS for 11 years. Working out is essential but needs to be done carefully.

Bottom line, the healthier you are the less MS knocks you down... and the easier it is for your body to recover.

Focus on muscle strength (day by day) especially core muscles, flexibility and balance. Yes, Yoga and Pilates are great for this!

Overheating is MY problem. I get overheated and all my old MS damage acts up. Like throwing water on a bad fuse box. I LOVE to swim for cardio since it maintains body temperature. I actually wear makeup to the gym because I am VAIN enough to slow down the athlete in me before it all melts off.

Know YOUR body... and more importantly LISTEN and COMPLY with what YOUR body is telling you. Figure out ways around YOUR body to continue to be able to do what you love.

YOUR body is YOUR best advisor and trainer. Good luck!

51 rep

Thanks everyone for your comments and advise.

27k rep

Trainer

There is a wonderful 40+ year old married lady in our gym who has MS and has had many surgeries and complications over the years from her MS. BUT, she doesn't let that stop her! In fact, each month we feature a "Gym Member of the Month" and she was a recipient of that award last year. She is a real inspiration to others to listen to her story and see her dedication to fitness and health. I interviewed her for the feature that we displayed at our gym about her and this is what she told me:

1- for people with MS exercising in the morning time is better (more energy, less pain)
2- stretching has helped tons- stretch after the workout
3- total body strength training has helped tons too- probably the since most important factor
4- listen to your body because some days it just isn't going to happen
5- find a support network (her husband is a gym member too and comes to the gym with her everyday). It was cute- for Valentine's day he bought her a pink Anytime Fitness t-shirt to wear while she works out!
6- workout most days of the week because it is more painful on days not working out

Hope this helps and keep up the good work! Congrats on joining the gym and getting started!

51 rep

Thanks for the helpful hints

137 rep

AlumniGroton, MA

I have a form of MD which is similar to MS but totally different at the sametime. I don't know if that makes sense lol. I've been diagnosed for 10 years now and in my early years with MD pilates helped me alot! but as I have gotten older, exercise sucks.
It's very hard to start again every morning, but, one morning at a time, right?

Good luck

982 rep

MemberWyoming, RI

I have had MS for 17 years. Was told I had a stroke from birth control. Then another attack happened. Yes I had every symtom of MS. I also have had a tumor removed and no thyroid. Two kids, who are now on their way to be young women. My turn to take care of myself. I exercise every other day. I feel so much better. This past March I fractured my ankle and tibia (ouch) Since joining Anytime Fitness I feel so much better. Do the YOGA, which is very painful but GREAT. The trainers are wonderful. I truly live by this moto until I can't anymore "I OWN IT- IT DOESN'T OWN ME"
Hope things work out.

72 rep

MemberLeesburg, FL

I have had MS for 5 years now. Used to go to a gym then had a car accident 2 years ago and stopped going to heal and never was able to get back. Well, I am trying again and am going to make it this time lol. A new Anytime fitness just opened that is only 1.4 miles from my house which is so much closer to me so I can make it there more. Wish me good fortune as it is hard (as we all know) to decide to start working out again at 41.

1.6k rep

I have MS (dx two years ago and I am 52) and I do not let it slow me down. I work out (in the mornings), strength training, walking, biking and snow skiing. I have a friend with MS that could not walk less than 10 years ago and just finished his 50th marathon in all 50 states this fall. He had to relearn how to walk and now he runs and runs. Google Patrick Finney marathon runner. He is such a wonderful person and an inspiration to us all. I wish you the best and keep at it, don't give up.

77 rep

my mom has ms (since 2005) excersice is very good for u (my mom used to do it hen she wanted to lose weight for my wedding back in 09). if u dont mind me asking, do u take the shots (avonex or copaxin) or the iv? that is young for u having it. my mom was diagnosed when she was 52-53? id just take it easy dont ovver do it heat isnt good for u. maybe wear one of those neck ice things to keep u cool? drink alot of water. have you told the trainer that u have ms? um try to cut out the jumk food eat alot of vitamin d stuff. drink alot of water.

7 rep

I'm just excited to join the conversation& learn alot but I am a 32yr old mother of 2 sons I am living with MS & just joined as a birthday gift to myself. So tips friendship & encouragement is always welcomed