Keep Moving: Real Talk About Exercise and MS

If you’ve got MS or another chronic illness, let’s be honest—exercise can feel overwhelming. You walk into a gym full of machines and weights, and it’s hard to know where to even start. Maybe you’ve been told certain exercises are off-limits or you’ve had a bad experience with something in the past. I get it. I’ve been there. But here’s the truth: movement is one of the best things you can do for your body. It’s not about being perfect or doing everything—it’s about finding what works for you.

This morning, after a Thanksgiving full of sitting (and way too much time in the car), I made it to the gym. My legs needed the work, so I started with leg extensions, leg curls, hip abductions, and some core work. Then I hopped on the stair stepper. Now, with my drop foot and weak leg, getting on that thing wasn’t easy. But I figured it out because moving my body matters. Was it perfect? Nope. Did I get it done? Absolutely.

While I was wrapping up, I met a woman who started sharing her story. She stays active, but there are certain exercises she avoids now—like back extensions and overhead presses—because she’s not sure how to do them safely anymore. She told me about lifting 70 pounds on the back extension machine and how it left her in pain, so she’s been avoiding it ever since.

We talked about it, and I asked her, “Do you really need to lift 70 pounds? Is that something your body needs for your daily life?” Most of us don’t need to lift heavy weights or do complex moves to stay strong. I suggested dialing back the weight and using the machine in a way that feels safe—maybe just holding a static position without actually lifting. It’s not about doing everything you used to do; it’s about doing what works for you now.

That’s something I’ve had to learn, too. There are exercises I can’t do because of my herniated disc or my weak legs, but that doesn’t mean I can’t train those muscles in other ways. For example, I can strengthen my shoulders without pressing weights overhead. It’s all about adapting.

Here’s the thing: exercise doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You don’t have to do every machine, lift the heaviest weights, or push through pain. Start small. Pick the movements that feel good and help you move through your day with more strength and confidence.

For me, staying active isn’t just about fitness—it’s about living. On the days I work out, my body feels more energized and capable. It reminds my muscles what they’re supposed to do. And trust me, some days are harder than others. But every time I show up, I feel stronger—not just physically, but mentally.

If you’re navigating MS or any chronic illness, know this: you don’t have to figure it out alone. Start with what you can do and build from there. And if you’re unsure about something, ask for help. Your body is worth the effort.

Let’s keep moving—because every bit of movement, no matter how small, gets you closer to living the life you want. And if you’ve got questions, I’m here to help. You don’t have to do this alone.