Comparing the Effects of TRX and Aerofitness Exercises on Core Stability of Women with Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background and Aims Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common destructive diseases of the central nervous system, which leads to disability and impaired mobility and functional capacity in patients. For the rehabilitation of patients with MS, resistance training is considered as a safe and efficient method. In this regard, in recent years, core stability exercise has become one of the common training methods for the rehabilitation of patients with MS. It is defined as the ability to control the position of the trunk over the pelvis to effectively transfer the force to the lower extremities during various activities. This study aims to compare the effects of selected TRX and aerofitness exercises on the core stability of women with MS. Methods In this randomized clinical trial, 30 women with MS aged 20-50 years with expanded disability status scale score <5 referred to MS Association of Isfahan were selected by a purposive sampling method and were randomly divided into two TRX and aerofitness groups. They performed the exercises for 8 weeks, 3 sessions per week, each for 60 minutes. Their core stability was measured using the Biering-Sørensen test, isometric lateral trunk endurance tests, and Planck test. Data were analyzed using paired t-test and independent t-test. Results The selected TRX and aerofitness exercises had a significant effect on the improvement of core stability in women with MS (P <0.05). Patients in the TRX group showed more significant improvement than in the aerofitness group (P <0.05). Conclusion The selected TRX and aerofitness exercises can improve the core stability of women with MS. However, further studies are needed to use these exercises in patients with MS.