Evidence Summary
Following stroke, studies which have used elements of cardiorespiratory training or a mixture of different forms of training such as circuit training type activities have demonstrated improvements in physical fitness in the form of VO2Max. This is important as low VO2 max may be associated, particularly in older adults, with limitation in function. Physical activity programmes involving resistance type activities have been shown to result in improvements in upper and lower body strength in people following stroke.
Quality of Evidence
Grade A-This recommendation comes from a synthesis of studies in the form of a Cochrane review and thus can be considered of high quality.
Strength of Recommendation
Grade 1- This recommendation comes from a synthesis of studies in the form of a Cochrane review and thus can be considered strong
Conclusion
Physical activity after stroke can result in improvements in physical fitness and in strength. Low physical fitness can be an important barrier to physical function and independence and so improvements in physical fitness could be important in empowering people after stroke.
References
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