Resistance training raises peripheral BDNF in MS, but low-certainty evidence limits confidenceResistance training may increase BDNF levels in people with MS

PloS one Published October 28, 2026 Study authors: Pedon William Riciere, Costa Gustavo De Conti Teixeira, Cortizo Vidal Lorenzo de Ávila Rodrigues, In… PubMed ↗ DOI ↗ Editorial oversight: Dr. Ji-eun Park, MD · Brain, Mind & Pain

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Key Takeaway

Consider resistance training may raise BDNF in MS, but evidence is low certainty.

This meta-analysis examined the effect of isolated resistance training (RT) on peripheral brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). The analysis included four studies with a total of 126 participants. The primary outcome was peripheral BDNF levels, and secondary outcomes included functional gains.

The pooled analysis showed a positive effect of RT on peripheral BDNF levels, with a standardized mean difference (SMD) of 0.49 (95% CI 0.15 to 0.83; Z = 2.80; p < 0.005). A sensitivity analysis using the Hartung-Knapp adjustment also indicated a positive intervention effect (SMD 0.49; 95% CI 0.42 to 0.56; t = 3.716; p = 0.0339). Subgroup findings suggested that low-to-moderate intensity protocols significantly increased serum BDNF after 8 weeks, whereas higher loads (approximately 80% of 1RM) produced no significant changes.

The authors caution that the evidence is of low certainty. Limitations include risk of bias, inconsistency, imprecision, a small number of studies (four), and wide confidence intervals. Adverse events and tolerability were not reported. Funding and conflicts of interest were not reported.

In practice, isolated RT may increase peripheral BDNF levels in individuals with MS, but the limited and low-certainty evidence means that clinicians should interpret these findings with caution and not overstate the potential benefits.

How this fits prior evidence

This meta-analysis extends prior coverage of multiple sclerosis by focusing on a non-pharmacologic intervention, resistance training, and its association with peripheral BDNF. Unlike previous items on EBV seroprevalence, GrimAge, photobiomodulation, gamma knife radiosurgery, and ponesimod, this review addresses a rehabilitation strategy. The finding of a pooled SMD of 0.49 for BDNF increase is novel in this context, but the low certainty and small number of studies (four) mean it does not confirm or contrast with the prior pharmacologic or biomarker findings. It adds to the growing but limited evidence base on exercise-related biomarkers in MS.

Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) involves navigating many challenges for the body and brain. One specific protein, called BDNF, plays a key role in how the brain functions and stays healthy. Researchers looked at how isolated resistance training—exercises that focus on specific muscle groups—impacts these BDNF levels in people living with MS.

The analysis of 126 people showed that resistance training did lead to an increase in BDNF levels in the blood. However, the type of exercise mattered. Programs using low to moderate intensity for 8 weeks showed clear increases. In contrast, programs using much heavier weights did not show a significant change in these levels.

While these results are encouraging, the evidence is still in the early stages. The findings come from a small number of studies, which means the results should be viewed with caution. Because the data is not yet certain, it is important to talk with a doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

What this means for you:

Low to moderate resistance training may boost a brain-supporting protein in people with MS, but more research is needed.

Common questions

What is BDNF and why does it matter for MS?

BDNF is a protein that helps support the health and function of your brain. In this study, researchers looked at how resistance training affects BDNF levels in the blood for people with Multiple Sclerosis. Higher levels of this protein are often linked to better brain health.

Does any type of weight lifting help with MS?

The type of training matters. The data showed that low to moderate intensity programs led to significant increases in BDNF after 8 weeks. However, programs using higher loads, around 80% of a person's maximum lift, did not show significant changes in BDNF levels.

Is this finding a proven treatment for MS?

Not yet. The evidence is currently considered low certainty because the results came from only four studies. While the increase in BDNF is promising, the small number of studies means these results should be interpreted with caution. Always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

Study Details

Study typeMeta analysis

Sample sizen = 126

EvidenceLevel 1

Follow-up5.5 mo

PublishedJan 2026

PMID42945167

View Original Abstract ↓

BACKGROUND: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a key mediator of neuroplasticity and has been associated with disease progression in multiple sclerosis (MS). While aerobic exercise is consistently linked to BDNF modulation, the specific contribution of isolated resistance training (RT) remains unclear, as previous reviews have largely combined multimodal exercise interventions. OBJECTIVE: To systematically review and meta-analyze the effects of isolated RT on peripheral BDNF levels in individuals with MS (PROSPERO: CRD420251141069). METHODS: Searches were conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Scielo, Scopus, PEDro and Cochrane up to January 10, 2026, using PICOT criteria. Controlled experimental studies investigating isolated RT and BDNF outcomes were included. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2.0 and ROBINS-I, and certainty of evidence was evaluated using GRADE. Due to methodological heterogeneity, a random-effects model was applied to estimate pooled effects. RESULTS: Four studies (three RCTs and one controlled non-randomized trial), totaling 126 participants with MS, were included. Interventions lasted 8-24 weeks, with training frequencies of 2-3 sessions per week. Meta-analytic synthesis revealed positive pooled effects (SMD = 0.49; 95%CI: 0.15 to 0.83; Z = 2.80; p < 0.005; I2 = 0%; Q = 1.681) with wide confidence intervals without crossing zero. With the Hartung-Knapp adjustment, due to the reduced number of studies, the analysis continued to show a positive intervention effect: (SMD = 0.49; 95%CI: 0.42 to 0.56; t = 3.716; p = 0.0339). Two studies using low-to-moderate intensity protocols (Pilates-based RT and low-load RT with bands/weights) showed significant increases in serum BDNF after 8 weeks. In contrast, studies employing higher loads (≈80% of one-repetition maximum: 1RM) demonstrated no significant BDNF changes despite functional gains. Overall certainty of evidence was rated as low due to risk of bias, inconsistency, and imprecision. CONCLUSION: Isolated RT may increase peripheral BDNF levels in individuals with MS, but this effect is supported by limited and low-certainty evidence. Furthermore, given that only four studies were included in the meta-analysis, we suggest interpreting the results with some caution.

Resistance training raises peripheral BDNF in MS, but low-certainty evidence limits confidenceResistance training may increase BDNF levels in people with MS

How this fits prior evidence

Common questions

Study Details

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Resistance training raises peripheral BDNF in MS, but low-certainty evidence limits confidenceResistance training may increase BDNF levels in people with MS

How this fits prior evidence

Common questions

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