1. Before starting an exercise program:

• Always consult with a physician prior to beginning an exercise program, especially if you have been inactive for an extended period of time.
• Contact a physiotherapist or personal trainer with disability knowledge in your area who can help devise an exercise program specific to your needs.
• Check out multiple local facilities for programs or activities that interest you such as swimming or an exercise group. Don’t just pick the first one you see.
• Check with your local MS Society chapter for programs and activities offered by the society within you community.
• Pick an activity that you will enjoy doing - for example swimming, walking or working out at a local fitness club.
• Get family and friends involved - exercise is more enjoyable when it's done with a partner or group.

• Know your own limits and do not exceed them. Do as much as you feel you can do. Don’t add to your fatigue by working to the point of exhaustion.
• Wear light clothing and exercise in a cool environment (remember symptoms of MS can get worse with overheating).
• Avoid heat exhaustion – don’t overdo it! Try to stay cool! When you feel fatigue, stop and rest or change exercises.
• When an MS attack occurs take a “time-out” from strenuous exercise until symptoms have subsided, but continue to do stretching to help maintain your range of motion.
• Don’t hesitate to ask for advice from others.
• Be active NOW!! And enjoy the physical and emotional rewards of being in the best shape you can be.

1. Before working with a person with MS

• Take time to learn about multiple sclerosis. For example, the different types of MS, the symptoms individuals with MS may experience, and the potential impact it can have on a person tolerance to exercise and physical activity.

• Create an environment that is welcoming, accessible and friendly by taking into considerations the symptoms of MS and the individual’s needs.
• Listen to the person with MS. They know their body the best. What symptoms they experience, what they can and cannot do, and the impact of fatigue for example.
• Don’t hesitate to ask for advice. Understanding multiple sclerosis and providing an exercise program can be difficult at times, there are experts in the field that can help in this regard.

Alberta & Northwest Territories Division
Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada
#150, 9405 - 50 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T6B 2T4

To locate the MS Society office near you, please select the appropriate chapter: