Get moving:
exercising with MG
No matter where you are on your journey, these at-home exercise videos are designed to help you move safely and confidently with MG, at your own pace and comfort level.
Each routine is designed to help you build strength and support your well-being so you can stay active and confident on your MG journey, right from the comfort of home.
Always check with your doctor before beginning any new exercise program. Your healthcare provider can recommend safe and appropriate activities tailored to your condition and current health status.
MG exercises: wherever you are, on your time
Standing, seated, or from the comfort of the floor, you can get moving with these carefully adapted exercises designed for people living with myasthenia gravis. Each minute-long video is hosted by Vanetta Fenton, a Nutrition Specialist and Certified Personal Trainer who was diagnosed with MG in 2003.
Warm-Up
Start your routine with gentle warm-up movements to prepare your body for safe and effective exercise.
Marching
Follow along with a marching exercise, available in both seated and standing positions.
Arm Circles
Try gentle arm circles, with options for both seated and standing to suit your comfort.
Mobility
Enhance your joint flexibility and movement with simple mobility exercises designed for comfort and ease.
Spinal Twist
Explore a spinal twist to help increase mobility in the seated or standing version that feels right for you.
Ankle/Wrist Circles
Practice controlled circles for your wrists and ankles to keep joints moving smoothly.
Cat/Cow Stretch
Move through a gentle “Cat-Cow” sequence to support joint movement. Meowing and mooing are optional.
Strength
Build and maintain muscle strength with targeted exercises that can be adapted to your needs and abilities.
Banded Row
Use a resistance band for rows, with variations for both seated and standing positions.
Banded Leg Extentions
Try banded leg extensions, with options to add light weights if desired.
Chest Press
Engage and strengthen key muscle groups with a chest press—seated or standing options included.
Cool down
Finish your session with calming cool-down stretches to help your body relax and recover.
Side Stretch
Enjoy a side stretch to relax your torso. Choose seated or standing based on your comfort.
Forward Fold
Practice a gentle forward fold to help your body unwind and cool down.
Benefits of regular physical activity
Along with good nutrition, regular exercise is an important stop on the road to better health. Staying active supports both your body and mind and is especially helpful for people living with MG.
Immediate benefits
- Eases anxiety.
- Helps you sleep better.
Long-term benefits
- Strengthens your bones.
- Lowers the risk of many diseases.
Ways to move
Walking is a simple and convenient way to add more activity to your day, while stretching and resistance bands can help you stay flexible and strong. Gentle practices like meditation and yoga also support a healthy lifestyle. If you’re feeling up to it, light weights can help maintain muscle strength.
Tips for exercising with MG
Here are some strategies to help you exercise safely and effectively.
Before you start:
- Check with your healthcare provider.
- Listen to your body. Stop before your muscles tire.
- Exercise with a friend when possible.
- Break exercises into smaller sets.
- Focus on your trunk muscles.
- Take your time and pace yourself.
