Pilates+4MS: Pilates Intervention for Multiple Sclerosis

The goal of this clinical trial is to test the physical health benefits of seated Pilates in the multiple sclerosis (MS) population. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1) is it feasible to deliver a seated Pilates class for 12 weeks, twice weekly over Zoom in a group format among participants with mild, moderate, and severe multiple sclerosis? 2) what are the mobility, balance, and symptom benefits of a 12-week seated Pilates class? 3) Does incorporating hip and shoulder stabilization augment the benefits compared to a standard seated Pilates protocol? 4) Are there benefits to physical activity participation? Participants will be screened over the phone for eligibility criteria and then scheduled for in-person data collection. In person data collection will involve: 1) completing the Timed 25-Foot Walk a total of 4 times, 2) the Timed Up and Go a total of 4 times, 3) the Berg Balance Scale a total of 2 times, and 4) a set of 8 questionnaires about multiple sclerosis symptoms and impact, and physical activity behavior. Participants will receive a FitBit and then will be randomized into the Pilates only group or the Pilates+4-Quadrant stability group for the intervention. The intervention is 12 weeks long, both groups meet twice weekly on Zoom for 60 minutes with 1 of 2 instructors and other class participants (12 per group). They wear the FitBit for all 12 weeks and then return for testing to repeat testing items 1-4 above. Researchers will compare the functional outcomes between the Pilates only group and the Pilates+4-Quadrant Stability group to see if there are differences in mobility, balance and physical activity outcomes.