BACKGROUND: Aerobic exercise can improve cognitive performance in healthy elderly people. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of a 3-week high-intensity aerobic exercise programme (high-intensity training group (HIT)) on cognitive performance in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) compared with a standard exercise programme (control training (CT)). METHODS: A total of 60 persons with MS (Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 1.0 to 6.5) were randomized to a HIT group (3x/week for 20 minutes, including five 3-minute exercise intervals at 80% of peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak)) or a CT group (continuously 5x/week for 30 minutes/session at 65% of VO2peak). Cognitive performance was assessed using the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for MS at entry (t0) and discharge (t1). Furthermore, VO2peak, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, serotonin and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2 and -9 were measured. RESULTS: Compared to CT, HIT significantly improved verbal memory. Significant improvements over time in executive functions were found in both groups. Secondary outcomes indicated significant improvements in VO2peak and a significant reduction in MMP-2 in the HIT group only. CONCLUSION: HIT represents a promising strategy to improve verbal memory and physical fitness in persons with MS. Further research is needed to determine the impact of exercise on biomarkers in MS.

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