Transforming Stroke Recovery: High-Intensity Interval Training Proves Most Effective, Says New Study
New research led by physiotherapist and PhD candidate Kevin Moncion and Ada Tang from the School of Rehabilitation Science at McMaster University has shed light on the most effective exercise intervention for promoting stroke recovery.
A new type of exercise that has attracted attention in stroke rehabilitation is high-intensity interval training (HIIT). This type of exercise involves exercising in short, high-effort bursts followed by short periods of rest.
Moncion and Tang published a comprehensive study of over 1,200 participants in the British Journal of Sports Medicine (BJSM). They found that HIIT may be the most effective aerobic exercise intervention for improving key indicators of stroke recovery, including fitness levels, heart health, and mobility, compared to current rehabilitation standards.
These emerging findings challenge the status quo and have important implications for stroke clinical practice. As a result, individuals working with stroke survivors are encouraged to consider including HIIT in clinical practice and community settings to enhance stroke recovery.