High-Intensity Interval Training to Improve Walking After Stroke

High-Intensity Interval Training to Recover Walking Post-Stroke: HIT-Stroke Trial 2

NIH-funded research University of Cincinnati · NIH-10873214

This study is looking at whether a new type of exercise that mixes fast walking with rest can help stroke survivors walk faster and longer than regular moderate exercise, making their recovery a bit easier and more effective.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Cincinnati NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project IDNIH-10873214 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIT) on improving walking speed and endurance in stroke survivors. It aims to determine if a novel training protocol, which alternates bursts of maximum speed walking with recovery periods, can lead to greater improvements in walking capacity compared to traditional moderate-intensity aerobic training. The study focuses on individuals who have experienced a stroke and may struggle with walking due to neurologic impairments. By utilizing this innovative approach, the research seeks to enhance rehabilitation outcomes for those in the chronic phase of stroke recovery.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are stroke survivors who have severe gait impairments and are more than six months post-stroke.

Not a fit: Patients who are in the acute phase of stroke recovery or those with conditions that severely limit their ability to participate in physical activity may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the walking ability and overall quality of life for stroke survivors.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary results from similar approaches suggest that high-intensity interval training may lead to significant improvements in walking capacity for stroke survivors.

Where this research is happening

Cincinnati, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.