High intensity exercise program for people with neurologic disabilities

Can a High Intensity Exercise Program for People With Neurologic Disabilities Run by Doctoral of Physical Therapy Students Improve Mobility in Everyday Life

Not applicable Interventional University of Hartford · NCT06945835

This study tests whether a high-intensity exercise program can help people with neurologic disabilities improve their mobility and physical activity.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment15 (estimated)
Ages8 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Hartford Academic / other
Locations1 site (West Hartford, Connecticut)
Trial IDNCT06945835 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

The Hawks in Motion (HIM) High Intensity Exercise program aims to improve mobility and physical activity among individuals with neurologic disabilities such as cerebral palsy, stroke, and spinal cord injury. Administered by Doctor of Physical Therapy students, the program follows established exercise guidelines to enhance physical function and endurance. Participants will engage in high intensity exercise sessions lasting at least 20 minutes, with mobility assessed before and after the program to determine its effectiveness in everyday life. The study builds on previous findings that indicated the program's feasibility, safety, and efficacy.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 8-99 with physical disabilities that limit mobility and activities of daily living due to neurologic conditions.

Not a fit: Patients without a physical disability impacting daily activities or those with unstable medical conditions may not benefit from this program.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly enhance mobility and quality of life for patients with neurologic disabilities.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown the HIM High Intensity Exercise Program to be feasible and effective, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* physical disability that limits mobility and activities of daily living, and a neurodevelopmental disability OR neurological disability,
* age 8-99 years of age,
* understands verbal instructions,
* able to obtain medical clearance,
* able to obtain transportation to campus,
* have a parent/guardian/caregiver on site if not own legal authorized representative,
* English speaking.

Exclusion Criteria:

* no presence of a physical disability that impacts activities of daily living, no neurodevelopmental or neurological disability as an underlying cause,
* no person-centered goals (locomotion, fitness, transfers, and mobility),
* unstable cardiac condition,
* uncontrolled seizures,
* unstable oxygen saturation levels,
* no clearance from primary care physician for exercise,
* unable to read and understand English,
* pursuing active litigation for their physical condition.

Where this trial is running

West Hartford, Connecticut

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.
Conditions Cerebral PalsyStrokeSpinal Cord InjuryTraumatic Brain InjuryCharcot Marie Tooth DiseaseSpina Bifidahigh intensity exercisephysical activity
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.