McGuckin, T., Smith, M., Flavell, C., van Eijk, L., and Ambrose, K. (2025) Community running for people with multiple sclerosis. In: Programme & Abstract Book for the ASPA 2025 Conference. pp. 157-158. From: ASPA 2025: 5th Asia-Pacific Society for Physical Activity Conference, 26-28 November 2025, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.

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Abstract

Introduction: Exercise is important for people with multiple sclerosis (MS), helping manage symptoms and potentially slow disease progression. However, adherence to exercise is often challenging. Since 158 physical activity levels in individuals with MS are lower than in the general population, it is essential to find effective ways to support exercise participation within the community. This study explored the experiences of community running as perceived by individuals with MS and identified barriers and enablers to their involvement.

Methods: This qualitative descriptive study utilised thematic analysis to explore the experiences of regular runners with MS in Australia. Eighteen runners participated in 60-min online semi-structured focus groups or individual interviews, which were analysed using NVivo software. Demographic data were collected and analysed descriptively.

Results: Across eight Australian states/territories, 18 participants (3 male, 15 female) with a median age of 44 years (IQR 12.8; range 31-57) participated in the study. Barriers and enablers of running were identified in three key themes: ensuring environmental safety, navigating environmental temperatures and developing strategies to support running. Barriers included inadequate access to level pathways, necessitated by physical difficulties, and limited availability of public conveniences to accommodate incontinence issues. Enablers included social support through community initiatives such as Parkrun, facilitating running for individuals with disabilities. Adequate lighting and shaded areas were identified as enablers to accommodate environmental factors.

Conclusions: Opportunities exist to support individuals with MS engage in exercise such as running within the community. Exploring existing environments for running and adding to existing infrastructure or community groups could possibly allow greater support for those with MS who wish to run. Achieving and sustaining exercise participation is important to help with chronic disease management and quality of life for people with MS.

Item ID:	89751
Item Type:	Conference Item (Abstract / Summary)
Related URLs:	https://aspactivity.org/conference/
Date Deposited:	14 Jan 2026 22:22
FoR Codes:	42 HEALTH SCIENCES > 4201 Allied health and rehabilitation science > 420106 Physiotherapy @ 80% 42 HEALTH SCIENCES > 4207 Sports science and exercise > 420799 Sports science and exercise not elsewhere classified @ 20%
SEO Codes:	20 HEALTH > 2004 Public health (excl. specific population health) > 200401 Behaviour and health @ 50% 20 HEALTH > 2005 Specific population health (excl. Indigenous health) > 200599 Specific population health (excl. Indigenous health) not elsewhere classified @ 50%
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