MS Fatigue and Exercise: How to Stay Active Without Overdoing It
Updated: Sep 5
Why can exercise feel difficult with MS fatigue?
MS fatigue can be very different from ordinary tiredness. Heat, poor sleep, deconditioning, pain, stress and the effort of moving with weakness or altered balance can all increase the energy cost of activity. That is why a programme that looks easy on paper can still feel demanding in practice.
Should you exercise when you have MS fatigue?
For many people, appropriately dosed exercise remains useful, but the aim is not to push through severe fatigue. Shorter sessions, planned rests, seated or supported options and spreading harder activities across the week can make exercise more sustainable.
How can pacing help?
Pacing means planning activity before exhaustion appears. One approach is to stop while you still feel capable of doing a little more, rather than using every available bit of energy in one session. It can also help to separate demanding strength work from longer cardiovascular sessions.
How should exercise be progressed?
Change one thing at a time: a few more repetitions, slightly more resistance, a little longer walking time or less hand support. If symptoms remain settled over several sessions, another small progression can then be considered.
Need a complete rehabilitation plan?
The Complete Multiple Sclerosis Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Guide brings together exercise options from very limited mobility through to gym-based rehabilitation, with linked demonstrations so you can build a programme around your current ability.
This article is general educational information. Follow the advice and restrictions given by your own surgeon, doctor, MS team or physiotherapist, and seek medical advice for new or concerning symptoms.
Want a structured MS rehabilitation resource?
Prefer guided group exercise? Book the strength and balance exercise class.
If you need advice tailored to you, book a physiotherapy assessment.
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