As part of any Health Plan, an exercise routine is vital. People with MS are no different in this regard.  Many people with MS believe that exercise has actually helped their symptoms.  The important thing is not to over-tire yourself, and to take breaks, otherswise you will be adding to your fatigue problems.  I believe that even a small amount of exercise each day, helps me sleep better at night.  I certainly notice that I’m much more restless in bed, if I haven’t had my daily walk. 

If you are mobile then you have no excuse, even if you are in a wheel chair, there are certainly exercises you can still do, and you may need to consult a physiotherapist for the best advice for your personal needs. But even just going outside in the ‘fresh’air will make you feel better. Once again, keeping a ‘log or journal’ - you could modify the 'Food/Drink Diary' and use it as an Activity Diary - of your activities can help you identify any bad habits, and will also allow you to reward yourself when you achieve a goal. For hints on Goal Setting and a simple method of helping you set goals, please read the information on the Goal Setting page of this site.  You will find if you set goals within your exercise routine, you will see the benefits and rewards of exercise in a different way.

Although exercise is important, it is very important to exercise under the guidance of your health professional, and to set an exercise program together, suited to your needs and for where you are at now.  Dont set goals or programs too far ahead of yourself, and end up overdoing things.

Remember to vary your exercise program occasionally, so the routine doesnt become 'stale and boring'.  And dont 'beatup' on yourself if you 'skip' a day, sometimes we just need to have an 'off' day.