The purpose of this study is to examine if high intensity interval training after stroke is more effective than standard care to increase maximal oxygen uptake, reduce known risk factors for recurrent stroke and improve function.
Stroke is a leading cause of adult disability. Well designed studies have shown that the majority of the stroke population have low aerobic capacity and many are inactive. This is negative for their health and well-being. Physical inactivity may increase their risk of having recurrent stroke. The optimal training mode and intensity to improve aerobic capacity after stroke are not clear. High intensity interval training (ie. 90-95% of peak heart rate) has been proven to be more beneficial than moderate and low intensity exercise in order to improve maximal oxygen uptake in patients with cardiac disease. The response from this training on aerobic capacity and physical function in the stroke population are not known.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
70
Uphill treadmill walking
Standard care
Department of Neuroscience
Trondheim, Norway
Maximal Oxygen Uptake
A graded treadmill test of maximal oxygen uptake using a breath by breath ergospirometer
Time frame: 1 year after inclusion
Change in blood pressure (systolic and diastolic)
Blood pressure will be measured at rest
Time frame: 8 weeks and 12 months after inclusion
Walking speed
Walking speed (in minutes:seconds) will be measured with the 10 meter walk test and the Timed Up and Go test.
Time frame: 8 weeks and 12 months after inclusion
Leisure time activity and inactive time
Using the ActivePal monitor attached to the participants non-affected leg information on position, walking and inactive time will be measured during 3 whole consecutive days.
Time frame: 8 weeks and 12 months after inclusion
Balance tested with the Bergs Balance Test
Time frame: 8 weeks and 12 months after inclusion
Change in Blood tests
The following blood tests will be taken: Hemoglobin, HDL, LDL, Cholesterol, Total Cholesterol, C peptides, Triglycerides and HbA1c
Time frame: 8 weeks and 12 months after inclusion
Independence assessed by Functional Independence Measure (FIM)
Time frame: 8 weeks and 12 months after inclusion
Self reported physical activity level assessed by International Physical Activity Questionnaire
Time frame: 8 weeks and 12 months after inclusion
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Cognitive function assessed by Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Trail Making A and B
Time frame: 8 weeks and 12 months after inclusion
Walking distance
Walking distance (in meters) will be measured with the 6 minute walk test.
Time frame: 8 weeks and 12 months after inclusion