High-Intensity Interval Training for Adults with Chronic Stroke: A Pilot Feasibility Study

Purpose:This study was conducted to assess the feasibility of twice weekly treadmill high-intensity interval training (HIIT) after stroke; to measure cardiorespiratory (CR) changes and assess predictors of CR change and the validity of existing age-predicted maximal heart rate (AP-HRmax) equations to dose HIIT; and to determine the effect of HIIT on functional measures.Methods:Seventeen adults ≥6 months poststroke participated in twice-weekly, supervised HIIT plus 30-minute home walking sessions for 10 weeks (n = 10) or served as control participants (CON, n = 7). Feasibility was measured by HIIT attendance (≥90%) and attaining targeted HIIT parameters with no adverse events. Cardiorespiratory response, peak HR, and function were measured before and after intervention. Validity of AP-HRmax equations was assessed.Results:Feasibility was supported (99% of training sessions completed, no adverse events, and targeted intensity achieved). Vo2peak increased significantly for HIIT, P =.019 and decreased for CON, P =.044. Functional outcomes did not improve for either group. Age-predicted maximal heart rate equations were valid, with poor absolute agreement at baseline and post-Test for HIIT (P =.024; P =.003) and CON (P =.012; P =.005).Conclusions:Ten weeks of twice-weekly HIIT is feasible post-stroke and increased aerobic capacity, but functional outcomes did not improve. Some existing AP-HRmax equations can be used to formulate HIIT exercise prescription.