Can I continue to play sports even though I have ALS?

The ability to engage in physical activity depends largely on ALS-related motor deficits.

In general, physical activity is considered beneficial and should be maintained (depending on and taking into account any motor limitations). There are no known negative effects of physical exertion. On the contrary: Continuing physical and motor activity is of great importance in preventing the consequences of immobilization (inactivity atrophy, contractures, thrombosis, and lymphedema).

Maintaining physical activity depends on one’s physical capabilities and respecting the motor limitations imposed by ALS. If the upper extremities (or bulbar region) are affected, walking (including “jogging”) is certainly possible. However, it should be noted that arm weakness can also lead to an altered gait pattern (with a risk of falling).

Impairment of the trunk muscles can also lead to reduced respiratory capacity, which must be taken into account (even when the lower extremities are functioning at full strength). When continuing athletic activity, it is therefore important to monitor and respect one’s individual performance limits.

If motor deficits continue to progress, it is advisable to adapt physical activity to the individual’s capacity. The treating physical therapist should be consulted to develop a personalized exercise and therapy program.

Therapeutic exercise equipment plays a valuable role, especially as motor limitations become more severe, in enabling deficit-oriented “equipment-based training”—and thus an individualized exercise program—to be carried out in a safe position (without the risk of falling).