Exercise training to improve motor performance in chronic stroke: effects of a community-based exercise program

The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility and efficacy of an exercise program offered by a community organization on motor performance in individuals with chronic stroke. Twenty hemiparetic individuals at least 6 months after a stroke and discharged from all rehabilitation services enrolled in the study. They took part in an 8-week group program (two times per week) aimed at improving balance, mobility, coordination, walking endurance and strength on the hemiparetic side through various functional exercises. Pre- and post-exercise assessments included the stroke impairment assessment set, the Berg balance scale, the step test, the timed-up-and-go and the 6 min walk. Results showed significant improvements (P < 0.008) in all of the above tests, excluding the 6 min walk, after completion of the exercise training. Correlation analyses revealed that the individuals' age and time since injury were poorly related to the improvement in performance. It is concluded that an exercise program offered by a community organization can lead to improvement in motor performance of individuals with chronic stroke. To prevent decline in motor performance, community-based exercise programs should thus be made available for stroke patients discharged from rehabilitation services.