Effectiveness of a multimodal low–moderate intensity exercise rehabilitation program for stroke survivors

© 2018 FC Barcelona Introduction: The amount of people who survive a stroke is increasing annually. Persons with stroke suffer neurological deficits and a physical deconditioning that compromise walking ability, basic activities of daily living and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The aim of the study was to determine the effects of a 12-week multimodal low–moderate intensity exercise rehabilitation program on walking speed, walking endurance and adherence to physical activity. Material and methods: An observational repeated-measures design was used. The intervention consisted of 24 sessions of 1 hour per session two alternative days a week. A total of 31 participants were recruited and were evaluated at baseline, post-intervention and at six months follow up. Results: Twenty-five participants completed the rehabilitation program. Significant improvements were found at the end of the intervention and those were maintained at six months on walking speed (10MWT *p ≤ 0.004), walking endurance (6MWT **p ≤ 0.000) and adherence (walking min/day **p ≤ 0.000). Participants reported an overall satisfaction with the rehabilitation program of 94%: fitness, walking capacity, balance, accomplished expectations, satisfaction with the rehabilitation program, satisfaction with self-efficacy, learned strategies to improve QoL, adequate timing and would recommend the low–moderate intensity exercise rehabilitation program. Conclusions: Promoting low–moderate intensity physical activity may be an interesting rehabilitation strategy for stroke survivors.