Exercise for multiple sclerosis: a single-blind randomized trial comparing three exercise intensities:

Background: The most effective exercise dose has yet to be established for multiple sclerosis (MS).Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different exercise intensities in people with MS.Methods: We completed a randomized comparator study of three cycling exercise intensities, with blinded assessment, was carried out in Oxford. Sixty-one adults with MS who fulfilled inclusion criteria were randomized at entry into the study, using a computer-generated list held by an exercise professional, into either: continuous (at 45% peak power, n = 20), intermittent (30 sec on, 30 sec off at 90% peak power, n = 21) or combined (10 min intermittent at 90% peak power then 10 min continuous at 45% peak power, n = 20) exercise for 20 min twice a week for 12 weeks in a leisure facility. Groups were assessed at: baseline, halfway (6 weeks), end intervention (12 weeks) and follow-up (24 weeks). Primary outcome measure was 2 min walk.Results: Fifty-five participants were included in the analysis (n...