Physical activity, sedentary behavior, and aerobic capacity in persons with multiple sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Exercise Physiology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Exercise training is known to enhance aerobic capacity in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS).
• However, the specific associations between different intensities of physical activity and sedentary behaviors with aerobic capacity in MS remain less understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between objectively measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), light physical activity (LPA), and sedentary behavior with peak aerobic capacity (VO2peak) in persons with MS.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional observational study included 49 individuals with MS.
• Participants wore accelerometers for 7 days to measure physical activity and sedentary behavior.
• Peak aerobic capacity (VO2peak) was determined via a maximal incremental exercise test using cycle ergometry and spirometry.

Main Results:

• VO2peak showed significant positive correlations with both MVPA (r=0.53) and LPA (r=0.39).
• Sedentary behavior was not significantly correlated with VO2peak (r=-0.12).
• Linear regression confirmed that MVPA and LPA significantly explained VO2peak variance (R²=0.40), while sedentary behavior did not.

Conclusions:

• This study provides novel evidence that both MVPA and LPA are concurrent correlates of VO2peak in persons with MS.
• Targeting both moderate-to-vigorous and light physical activity may be beneficial for improving aerobic capacity in this population.