MS Synchronous vs Asynchronous Exercise Study

Summary

This randomized controlled study aims to compare the effects of synchronous and asynchronous exercise programs on individuals diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Participants meeting the inclusion criteria (EDSS score between 2 and 5.5, aged 18-55) were randomly assigned to either the Synchronous Exercise Group (SEG) or the Asynchronous Exercise Group (ASEG).

The synchronous program was delivered via live online sessions using Google Meet and WhatsApp video calls, while the asynchronous program consisted of pre-recorded exercise videos accessible to participants. Both programs included structured exercises focusing on functional capacity, muscle strength, fatigue, independence, and quality of life.

The sample size was determined using G\*Power software based on previous studies in individuals with multiple sclerosis, targeting a total of 16. Statistical analyses will be conducted using SPSS 26.0. Parametric and non-parametric tests will be used depending on data distribution, with significance set at p \< 0.05.

The study seeks to improve accessibility to exercise programs for MS patients and provide evidence for the efficacy of remotely delivered synchronous versus asynchronous rehabilitation models.

Conditions

• Multiple Sclerosis
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Relapsing-remitting

Interventions

OTHER

Combined Exercise Program (Synchronous Delivery)

Participants receive a 12-week structured combined exercise program delivered twice weekly via live online video sessions (Google Meet or WhatsApp). Each session lasts approximately 40 minutes and included 10 minutes of warm-up, 25 minutes of strengthening and core stabilization exercises, and 5 minutes of cool-down stretching. Exercise intensity is maintained between 12 and 15 on the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion scale. Rest periods are adjusted individually. Exercises are supervised in real time by a physiotherapist, who monitored participants' form, safety, and perceived fatigue throughout each session

OTHER

Combined Exercise Program (Asynchronous Delivery)

Participants follow the same 12-week structured exercise program twice weekly using pre-recorded instructional videos. The program consists of warm-up, strengthening/core, and cool-down components identical to the synchronous arm. Participants receive detailed guidance to ensure correct posture and performance, logged each session in exercise diaries, and submitted weekly feedback to researchers. Investigators review exercise logs and provided individualized feedback via e-mail or phone. In case of difficulties, participants can contact the research team for assistance

Sponsors & Collaborators

• The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey

  collaborator OTHER

• Yeditepe University

  lead OTHER

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

SUPPORTIVE_CARE

Masking

SINGLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

55 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-04-01

Primary Completion

2025-10-01

Completion

2025-10-29

Countries

• Turkey (Türkiye)

Study Locations