High intensity functional training for people with neurologic conditions and their caregivers

High Intensity Functional Training for Individuals With Neurologic Diagnoses and Their Care Partners: A 2-Year Longitudinal Study

NA · Arkansas Colleges of Health Education · NCT05951985

This study is testing if a special group exercise program can help people with neurological conditions and their caregivers feel stronger and healthier over two years.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorArkansas Colleges of Health Education (other)
Locations1 site (Fort Smith, Arkansas)
Trial IDNCT05951985 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study examines the long-term physical and psychosocial effects of structured, group-based high intensity functional training (HIFT) for individuals with neurologic diagnoses and their care partners. Over two years, participants will engage in twice-weekly HIFT sessions led by licensed physical therapists, focusing on aerobic, resistance, and balance training. Prior to participation, all individuals will undergo a physical assessment to ensure eligibility and safety. The study aims to monitor participants' physical activity levels and evaluate improvements in mobility, strength, endurance, and overall health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with a neurologic diagnosis or those who are care partners of individuals with such diagnoses.

Not a fit: Patients who do not meet the inclusion criteria, such as those unable to locomote independently or lacking physician clearance, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the physical and mental well-being of individuals with neurologic disorders and their caregivers.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with similar high intensity functional training approaches for individuals with neurologic conditions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Participants must be at least 18 years of age
* Participants must be able to communicate and read in English
* Participants must have physician and/or advanced practice provider clearance to exercise
* Participants must have a neurologic diagnosis (e.g., spinal cord injury, Parkinson's, brain injury, stroke, poliomyelitis, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, etc.) OR participants must be care partner of a person with neurologic diagnosis.
* Participants must possess at least 4/5 elbow flexion strength bilaterally
* Participants must be able to locomote independently (i.e., ambulate or propel a manual or power wheelchair independently).
* Participants must provide their own transportation to/from the research study

Exclusion Criteria:

* Participants will be excluded if they fail to meet any of the inclusion requirements

Where this trial is running

Fort Smith, Arkansas

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: Neurologic Disorder, Parkinson Disease, Spinal Cord Injuries, Spina Bifida, Stroke, Poliomyelitis, Multiple Sclerosis, Brain Injuries

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.