Living With ALS

Exercise and ALS

Exercise in ALS must be tailored to the individual. There is no single exercise program that is appropriate for every person with ALS.

Start with the problem

What problem are you trying to solve?

This question box finds a relevant ALS Hub page. It does not diagnose or provide medical advice.

What should shape an exercise plan?

  • current muscle strength
  • muscles affected by ALS
  • respiratory function
  • fatigue
  • balance
  • fall risk
  • joint range of motion
  • pain
  • spasticity
  • mobility level
  • disease progression
  • other medical conditions

Sources: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis — Diagnosis and treatment · How a physical therapist can help keep your world large

What an ALS-experienced physical therapist can help determine

  • which muscles should be exercised
  • appropriate aerobic intensity
  • appropriate resistance
  • stretching needs
  • range-of-motion activities
  • balance activities
  • when exercise should be reduced
  • when exercise should be modified
  • when assisted movement is more appropriate

Sources: How a physical therapist can help keep your world large · Exercise programs for people with ALS found safe and tolerable

Activity categories

  • stretching
  • range of motion
  • light-to-moderate aerobic activity where appropriate
  • light-to-moderate resistance work where appropriate
  • balance and fall safety
  • energy conservation
  • caregiver-assisted range of motion where appropriate

Sources: How a physical therapist can help keep your world large · Exercise programs for people with ALS found safe and tolerable

Avoid overwork and excessive fatigue

Do not use universal repetitions, weights, heart-rate targets, duration targets, or intensity prescriptions from a general webpage. Do not push through weakness, pain, excessive fatigue, or shortness of breath. Stop and contact the care team when an activity produces concerning symptoms.

Sources: How a physical therapist can help keep your world large · Exercise programs for people with ALS found safe and tolerable

Sources & Further Reading

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This information is for education and does not replace individualized medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or emergency care.

Last reviewed: 09-30-2026

Medical information should be reviewed periodically as guidance, benefits, and equipment options change.