Background: Despite the demonstrated benefits of exercise in multiple sclerosis (MS), this population shows low rates of physical activity. Understanding barriers to exercise in persons with MS is important. The current study examined the relationship between lifetime history of depression, current depressive symptoms, and aerobic endurance in persons with relapsing-remitting MS to determine whether depression might be one such barrier.

Methods: Thirty-one participants with relapsing-remitting MS self-reported current depressive symptoms and history of depression. Aerobic endurance was assessed via 2-Minute Step Test. 

Results: Linear regression demonstrated that lifetime history of depression predicted lower aerobic fitness whereas current depressive symptoms did not.

Conclusions: Findings suggest a possible role of lifetime depression as a barrier to exercise in MS and highlight the importance of effective treatment of depression in this population to reduce its potential impact on exercise adherence.