Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 5, 2026
Adapted Resistance Training Improves Strength in Eight Weeks in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: January 29, 2016
Changes of Motivational Variables in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis in an Exercise Intervention: Associations
Wiebke Geertz1, Anna-Sophie Dechow1, Stefan Patra1
1Institute for Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, Building W26, 20246 Hamburg, Germany ; Competence Center for Sports and Exercise Medicine (Athleticum), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
Objectives:
This study examines the effects of a standardized fitness training on motivational factors such as the intention to be physically active, self-efficacy, perceived barriers, counterstrategies, and exercise specific social support in patients with progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and the relation of these factors to physical performance.
Methods:
Moderately disabled patients with secondary or primary progressive MS (Expanded Disability Status Scale of 4-6) were randomized to a training group or a waitlist control group. Patients completed on average 20 sessions of training tailored to their individual fitness at baseline over a course of 8-12 weeks. Motivational variables (stage of change according to the transtheoretical model (TTM), self-efficacy, perceived barriers, counterstrategies, and exercise specific social support) were assessed via questionnaires at baseline and follow-up.
Results:
Forty patients completed the trial. We found significant effects on stages of change (p = .016) and self-efficacy (p = .014) and a trend in counterstrategies (p = .08). Significant correlations between change of physical performance during the exercise training and change in the TTM, perceived barriers, and counterstrategies were detected.
Conclusion:
This study indicates that tailored individual endurance training could stabilize self-efficacy and increase exercise motivation in patients with progressive MS. Motivational variables were related to the physical performance.
