Multiple sclerosis: resistance training may increase BDNF, but evidence is limited

Four studies on resistance training alone

BDNF is a factor involved in neuroplasticity, the nervous system’s ability to change. Its biological relevance does not, however, make its peripheral concentration a direct measure of benefit to the brain.

This systematic review sought to isolate the effect of resistance training in people with multiple sclerosis. The authors note that previous reviews often combined several forms of exercise, making the specific contribution of resistance training difficult to distinguish.

Their literature search, conducted through January 10, 2026, identified three randomized trials and one non-randomized controlled trial. The interventions lasted 8 to 24 weeks, with two to three sessions per week. The abstract consulted does not specify the comparison conditions for each study.

A positive signal in a marker, not clinical proof

The pooled analysis reports an increase in peripheral BDNF, with a standardized mean difference of 0.49 and a 95% confidence interval ranging from 0.15 to 0.83. This measure allows results expressed on different scales to be pooled: it represents neither a 49% increase nor an absolute quantity of BDNF.

This result does not support the conclusion that resistance training slows the progression of multiple sclerosis. The pooled outcome is a peripheral biomarker, not evidence of clinical improvement.

Heavier loads do not necessarily mean more BDNF

Two studies using low- to moderate-intensity exercise observed an increase in serum BDNF after eight weeks. In contrast, studies using heavier loads found no significant change in BDNF, despite functional gains.

This difference is not enough to establish that lighter loads are superior: it comes from different protocols and a small number of studies, not from a comparison capable of identifying an optimal intensity. It also highlights that functional improvement can occur without a measurable increase in BDNF.

What we can take away

Resistance training may increase peripheral BDNF in multiple sclerosis. This review does not justify choosing training loads to maximize this marker or inferring an effect on disease progression.