Walking performance differs between people with multiple sclerosis who perform distinct types of exercise.

Aim: To determine whether walking performance differed between people with multiple sclerosis (MS) who performed distinct types, volumes and intensities of exercise.Materials & methods: Forty-five people with relapsing-remitting MS performed two trials of the 2-min walk test, one at a preferred speed and another at a fast speed. Gait metrics were measured by wireless inertial sensors. Participants reported the type (aerobic, resistance), volume and intensity of exercise performed.

Results

Walking speed reserve and gait variability were better in participants who performed combined aerobic and resistance exercises compared with those who performed aerobic-only exercise.

Conclusion

Walking performance differs in people with mild MS disability based on the type and volume of exercise performed.