Table 5 Behavioral change session content

Week 1 Introduction to program

Tele/video-chat 1: clarification of materials received and initial questions; explanation of program; planning exercise schedule; using the logbook and qualtrics; Newsletter 1: exercise expectations; exercise outcomes

Week 2 Outcome expectations

Tele/video-chat 2: compliance with program; using the manual, logbook, and Qualtrics; Identifying personal outcomes

Week 3 Choosing a program

Tele/video-chat 3: compliance with program; comparison of orange, blue, and green programs; choosing a program; Newsletter 2: self-monitoring defined; benefits of self-monitoring

Week 4 Self-monitoring

Tele/video-chat 4: compliance with program; using your pedometer; understanding exercise intensity

Week 5 Goal-setting

Tele/video-chat 5: compliance with program; setting specific, measurable, adjustable, action-oriented, realistic, and time-limited (SMAART) goals; Performing resistance training exercises correctly; Tracking progress; Newsletter 3: exercise related SMAART goals defined

Week 7 Self-efficacy

Tele/video-chat 6: finding your self-confidence; what to do when you feel like quitting; involving family; Newsletter 4: self-efficacy defined; experiencing success, choosing role models, accepting encouragement and managing physical and emotional responses; reminder that program is specific for persons with MS

Week 11 Overcoming Barriers

Tele/video-chat 7: identifying your barriers; making plans to overcome obstacles; dealing with MS symptoms; Newsletter 5: exercise barriers defined; common barriers (facilities, social, and symptoms); strategies to overcome barriers

Week 15 Identifying facilitators

Tele/video-chat 8: how to keep going on your own; making adjustments as needed; setting future goals; Newsletter 6: exercise facilitators defined; common facilitators (having a goal, enjoyment, social support, knowledge); using facilitators long term