Exercise As Part Of EverydayLife (NAPSA)—Regular moderate exercise is something that works out for everyone. Exercise is not only good for body, mind and spirit, it reduces the possibility of coronary disease, lowers blood pressure, raises the good HDL cholesterol, helps to control weight, and cuts the risk of diabetes. Many people regularly turn to exercise to reducestress. But what does this mean for people wholive with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)? It turns out they have extra incentives to do everything possible to stay fit. A recent study of people with mild to moderate disability from MS demonstrated that regular aerobic exercise— exercise vigorous enough to raise the pulse and respiration rate— increased fitness, arm and leg strength, and improvedthe parti- cipants’ bowel and bladdercontrol. Choose Fitness That Fits Here are some suggestions for choosing a fitness program from experts at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. —_ : ad os peas. ce Co oe ae — aa a LESS PAIN, MORE GAIN— exercisers are morelikely to stick with activities that feel good. Some people prefer exercise that is free from the stress of competing with opponents or keeping up with others. They might choose an activity such as swimming or walking that doesn’t require a team or partner. Remember, exercising alone at home may not supply the motivation that a class or a group gives, Choose fitness that fits. but this may be an ideal choice tion to be swallowedlike distasteful medicine. Moderate exercise Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic, unpredictable disease of the cen- Exercise need not be a prescrip- for 20 minutes or so every day yields the same benefits as rigorous sweat-and-grunt workouts. Remember that you’re more likely to stick with activities that feel good. e Start with a neurologist’s OK and a thorough understand- ing of any special cautions. Every individual with MS is different. Then consider your individual temperament. for some. tral nervous system, usually diag- nosed during the early adult years. A free copy of Exercise as Part of Everyday Life is available at any chapter of the National Multi- ple Sclerosis Society. To find out more about the programs of the National MS Society or to find a chapter nearest you call 1800-FIGHT-MS or log on to www.nationalmssociety.org.
