Exercise resources from the MS Trust
Open Door - November 2011 page 11
Keeping as fit and active as possible is important. As well as maintaining general health, the benefits of exercise for people with MS include reduced fatigue, better posture, more strength and improved mood. But how do you find exercises specifically planned for your needs?
The MS Trust has brought together all of our exercise resources into a new section of our website - www.mstrust.org.uk/exercises
Exercises for people with MS
Simple but effective exercises with something suitable for people of all abilities.
The exercises are grouped both by starting position - sitting, standing, kneeling or lying - and by the specific areas where they can help, such as balance, posture and strength.
Each exercise includes a clear explanation and an animation of the movement. The exercises can be downloaded individually to help you build up your own personal routine.
Exercise videos
Our popular DVD Move It For MS is now also available to view as video clips on the MS Trust website. There is something for everyone with MS. After a warm up session, Mr Motivator leads you through a series of fun routines in his own unique style. Clips include stretch and tone, bums and tums, and posture and balance.
There are also clips which discuss getting the most from going to a gym and matching exercises to what you feel comfortable doing.
Core stability exercises
Core stability is the ability to maintain a steady trunk whilst moving a limb. This keeps the body stable and improves balance and movement. Training programmes such as Pilates improve trunk stability by exercising the core muscles in a precise, controlled manner.
The exercises available on the MS Trust website were developed by the Therapists in MS group as part of a research study that demonstrated the value of core stability for people with MS.
It is important to discuss the best approach to using these exercises with your physiotherapist before you start. Together you can develop a programme that best suits your needs.
Relaxation
Sometimes it's great to relax - whether at the end of an exercise session or just to take time out from the pressures of the day. MS nurse Vicki Matthews has created a relaxing, calming session specifically for people with MS.
Watch the video of the relaxation session online, or download the audio version to listen to where and when you want.
- To try out the exercises, visit www.mstrust.org.uk/exercises
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