I was counseling someone with MS today and our exchange reminded me of something that it is of the utmost importance. No matter what form of exercise you choose, you need to let the instructor, trainer, coach, or teacher know what your limitations are. This client was going to check out a local gym and had no idea of what to expect. She is aware of the lack of endurance in her legs, and was hoping to find some equipment that could also challenge muscle groups in her upper body and still find some aerobic benefits. She had no idea that she would have a personal trainer assigned to her before she would be allowed on any of their machines.
I reminded her that it her job to explain to that trainer all of her limitations. Many trainers have no idea of what MS is all about, let alone that one person’s limitations do not match another’s. She must be clear about her lack of endurance- that she may appear to be strong for the first 15 minutes, but that she can suddenly go weak. For work on any equipment, this is critical information to give. No one wants her to get hurt.
Another anomaly of MS is that you may also get muscular feedback from a numb limb many minutes after you have completed an exercise. The cause and effect lag time can be erratic in both output and input. Value your need to stop and savor the sensation of a well used muscle. Shorter work out times may be better than longer ones. A properly executed exercise done twice can be more beneficial than 10 repetitions done incorrectly.
For many MSers, working out in hot and humid weather can be quite different than working out in the colder months. Add to this your own personal muscular habits, strengths and weaknesses and it is clear how important your information can be. Make sure that you feel heard by any teacher you find, and that they are open to feedback from you. It can make all the difference between an enjoyable sense of doing all you can to support your recovery process and preventing possible setbacks if you are in the wrong hands. Not all gyms or teachers are created equal- so choose carefully and do not be afraid of speaking out whenever you are unclear. It is your body and your health so take good care of them. Happy and safe exercising!