5 Activities for People with Primary Progressive MS

Yoga is a low-impact exercise that combines physical poses, called asanas, and breathing techniques. Yoga not only improves cardio, strength, and flexibility, but also carries the added benefit of stress and depression relief.

There are numerous misconceptions about yoga. Some people think that yoga is only for the most fit, and that you have to already be super flexible. There’s also the misconception that all asanas are performed standing or seated without any support.

Despite some of the trendiness surrounding Western practices, yoga is inherently designed individually to meet your needs. The word “practice” here is also important in understanding the purpose of yoga — it’s meant to be done regularly to help you build your body, mind, and spirit over time. It isn’t an activity designed for seeing who can do the best headstand.

If you’re new to yoga, consider finding a beginner’s or gentle yoga class to attend. Talk to the instructor ahead of time about your condition so that they can offer modifications. Remember that you can modify the poses as much as you need to — there are even chair yoga classes you can try out.

Tai chi is another low-impact option. While some of the principles — like deep breathing — are similar to yoga, tai chi is actually gentler overall. The practice is based on Chinese martial arts movements that are performed slowly along with breathing techniques.

Over time, tai chi could benefit PPMS in the following ways:

Despite the benefits, it’s important to discuss your condition along with your concerns with a certified instructor. They can help determine if there are any movements you ought to avoid. Like yoga, many tai chi movements may be performed sitting down if you have mobility concerns.

Tai chi classes are available privately, as well as through recreation and fitness clubs.

Swimming offers support for MS in numerous aspects. Water not only creates an environment for low-impact activity, but also offers support in cases where mobility may prevent you from doing other types of workouts. Resistance against the water helps you build muscle without risking injury. Furthermore, swimming offers the benefit of hydrostatic pressure. This may be helpful for PPMS by creating compression-like sensations around your body.

When it comes to swimming, your ideal water temperature is another consideration. Cooler water can keep you comfortable and reduce the risk of overheating from exercise. Try adjusting the pool temperature to around 80°F to 84°F (26.6°C to 28.8°C), if you can.

Aside from swimming, you can work the water of a pool to your advantage for performing a number of activities. These include:

If you have a community swimming pool, chances are group classes are available that offer one or more of these types of water exercises. You may also consider private lessons if you want more one-on-one instruction.