“How come you sent me the Canadian one?”Application and uptake of the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults with Multiple Sclerosis in the United States

The uptake and benefits of the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults with Multiple Sclerosis (PAGs) have been validated, but there is limited understanding regarding the knowledge, needs, and preferences of people with MS for implementing the PAGs outside of clinical research. We conducted online, semi-structured interviews with 40 persons with MS from across the United States seeking information on awareness of the PAGs, and potential approaches for increasing the uptake of the PAGs. We identified first impressions and potential approaches for increasing the uptake of the PAGs through inductive, semantic thematic analysis. Participants perceived the PAGs as a good
introduction for structured exercise, but desired more information on how to meet the PAGs. Participants further believed that modifying the PAGs for inclusivity and applying a multifaceted approach for dissemination and implementation may increase uptake of exercise behavior. Physical activity research in MS should include both analyzing the effects of exercise and the unique challenges faced by persons with MS in putting the PAGs into practice.