Objective This paper provided an updated quantitative synthesis of physical activity levels in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) compared with controls and other clinical populations. Design A systematic search through PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO was conducted for articles published between August, 2016 and July, 2022. Articles that included a group comparison of at least one measurement of physical activity between adults with MS and controls or other clinical populations were included in the meta-analysis. Results Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria and yielded a total of 119 comparisons. There was a moderate difference in physical activity levels between persons with MS and controls (effect size [ES] = –0.56,p < 0.01), but no significant difference between persons with MS and other clinical populations (ES = 0.01,p = 0.90). The pooled ESs comparing MS with controls (Q104 = 457.9,p < 0.01) as well as with clinical populations (Q13 = 108.4,p < 0.01) were heterogeneous. Moderating variables included sex, disability status, measurement method, outcome, intensity, and application of an MS-specific cut-point. Conclusion Physical activity levels remain significantly lower in persons with MS compared with controls, but the magnitude of difference has become smaller over the past decade. There is a need for continued development of effective physical activity programs that can reach the greater community with MS.

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