High-intensity interval training for improving fitness and gait in chronic stroke patients

Effects of High Intensity Interval Training on Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Gait Quality in People With Chronic Stroke

Not applicable Interventional National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University · NCT06474832

This study is testing if high-intensity interval training on a stationary bike can help people who had a stroke improve their fitness and walking ability.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment32 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 69 Years
SexAll
SponsorNational Yang Ming Chiao Tung University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Taipei)
Trial IDNCT06474832 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) using a stationary bicycle ergometer on cardiorespiratory fitness and gait quality in individuals who have experienced a chronic stroke. It aims to address the gap in understanding how HIIT can improve oxygen uptake efficiency and reduce gait variability, which are critical for enhancing community ambulation and reducing fall risk. Participants will engage in HIIT and moderate intensity continuous training to evaluate improvements in their physical capabilities. The study focuses on individuals aged 18-69 who are at least six months post-stroke and have a certain level of ambulation ability.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 18-69 who are at least six months post-stroke and can walk with or without assistive devices.

Not a fit: Patients with unstable cardiopulmonary conditions, severe lower limb spasticity, or other chronic neurological disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly enhance the physical fitness and mobility of chronic stroke patients, leading to improved quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown significant improvements in walking endurance and speed with HIIT, but this specific approach using a stationary bicycle ergometer is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 18-69 years
* At least 6 months post-stroke
* Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) ≥ 3
* Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) ≥ 24
* Able to walk 10 meters overground with or without assistive devices

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unstable cardiopulmonary conditions within the last 3 months
* Other chronic neurological disorders
* Contraindications to exercise as recommended by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
* Severe lower limb spasticity (Modified Ashworth Scale \> 2 points)
* Implanted pacemaker or cardioverter defibrillator

Where this trial is running

Taipei

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 Chronic StrokeHigh-intensity interval trainingCardiorespiratory fitnessGait quality
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.