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Adapted Resistance Training Improves Strength in Eight Weeks in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: January 29, 2016
Symptoms, self-efficacy, and physical activity among individuals with multiple sclerosis
Robert W Motl1, Erin M Snook, Edward McAuley
1Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 350 Freer Hall, 906 South Goodwin Ave., Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
Abstract:
Using social-cognitive theory, we examined the associations among symptoms, self-efficacy, and physical activity in 196 individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Participants completed symptoms, self-efficacy, and physical activity measures and wore an accelerometer for 7 days. There was a moderate inverse correlation between symptoms and physical activity (varphi = -.42). Subsequent analyses indicated that symptoms had direct negative relationships with self-efficacy (gamma = -.32) and physical activity (gamma = -.24), and self-efficacy had a direct positive relationship with physical activity (beta = .57). This study provides initial support for symptoms as a correlate of physical activity in individuals with MS. Monitoring symptoms during a physical activity program and altering the exercise prescription during symptom exacerbation might be a method for increasing exercise adherence.
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