Internet-based Physical Activity Promotion and Exercise Prescription for People With Multiple Sclerosis

Internet-based Physical Activity Promotion and Exercise Prescription for People With Multiple Sclerosis

The aim of the study is to evaluate the effects of a 12-week internet-based exercise and physical activity promotion intervention on physical activity. Furthermore, effects on symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis, Physical Activity-related Health Competence (PAHCO), self-concordance and basic needs satisfaction as well as usability and acceptability of the intervention will be investigated.

Inclusion Criteria:

• diagnosed Multiple Sclerosis (McDonald criteria)
• Expanded Disability Status Scale between 0 - 6.5
• neurologically stable (no exacerbation within 30 days prior to enrollment)
• internet access (WiFi)
• basic knowledge on handling personal computer and the internet
• owning a smartphone with the operating system Android or IOS and with access to Google Play Store or Apple App score
• basic computer and internet skills (e. g. using web browser and webcams)
• ability to operate a smartphone (especially to install mobile applications)
• ability to read, write and comprehend as well as communicate electronically

Exclusion Criteria:

• regularly physically active (more than 30 minutes twice a week with at least moderate intensity; includes aerobic training, resistance training and other sports e.g. Tennis; excludes physiotherapy, physical activity during work or household, grocery shopping, gardening, walking the dog etc.)
• clinically relevant cardiovascular diseases
• cortisone therapy in the last 30 days
• cognitive impairment that hampers study implementation
• severe impairment of hand function (ataxia or paresis impeding the use of a smartphone app or smartwatch)
• severe internal, orthopaedic and metabolic diseases that restrict mobility