High-intensity aerobic interval training for stroke recovery in Benin

Is High-intensity Aerobic Interval Training Appropriate for Recovering Impairments and Activity Limitations in the Acute Phase of Stroke? A Randomized Controlled Trial in Benin

NA · Hasselt University · NCT06179173

This study tests if combining high-intensity cycling exercises with regular physiotherapy can help people recover better after a stroke.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorHasselt University (other)
Locations1 site (Parakou)
Trial IDNCT06179173 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of high-intensity aerobic interval training on a semi-recumbent cycle ergometer combined with conventional physiotherapy for patients in the acute phase of stroke. The study aims to determine if this combined approach can improve impairments and activity limitations more effectively than conventional physiotherapy alone. Participants will be recruited within the first month after their stroke and will undergo a structured intervention to assess improvements in workload capacity and overall recovery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals who have experienced their first episode of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke within the last month and meet specific mobility and health criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with uncontrolled cardiac conditions or significant orthopedic issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance recovery outcomes for stroke patients in the acute phase.

How similar studies have performed: While there is emerging evidence supporting the benefits of high-intensity training in stroke rehabilitation, this specific approach in the acute phase is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

People with the diagnosis of stroke were screened and recruited within the first-month after the stroke onset according to the following criteria

1. first episode from an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke confirmed by CT scan;
2. muscle strength of the affected leg defined by Motricity Index between 14 and 19, i.e., between 2 and 4 on the Medical Research Council scale;
3. modified Ashworth score of 0 or 1, indicating no spasticity or slight spasticity over the affected lower limb, respectively
4. able to walk at least 5 meters independently with or without assistive devices and understand simple instructions;
5. resident in Parakou or its surroundings
6. wish to participate in the hospital program

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients whose medical records reported

1. uncontrolled cardiac arrhythmias (e.g. atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia), heart failure, or recent myocardial infarction, arteriopathy,
2. primary orthopedic conditions (e.g., fractures, active rheumatoid arthritis),
3. other neurological diseases (such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease), (4) patients unable to perform a graded exercise test, i.e., unable to reach the target cadence of 50 rpm or exercise-induced asthma

Where this trial is running

Parakou

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Stroke, Acute

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.