High-intensity interval versus moderate continuous exercise for stroke-related muscle loss
Official title: The Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training Versus Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training on Sarcopenia and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Ischemic Stroke: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by Fenerbahce University · NCT07456956 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This will test whether high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or moderate-intensity continuous training (MCIT) better helps people 1–6 months after an ischemic stroke who have muscle loss regain muscle mass, strength, walking ability, and quality of life.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 32 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Fenerbahce University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Istanbul, Ataşehir) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 2, 2026 |
| Main results expected | April 6, 2027 |
| Study ends | June 6, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | March 25, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07456956 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18 or older with a first-ever ischemic stroke 1–6 months prior, preserved cognition (MMSE ≥24), lower-extremity motor capacity (Brunnstrom III–V), able to ambulate at least with an assistive device, and mRS <3 are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
People with recurrent stroke, hemispatial neglect, major psychiatric disorders, severe orthopedic or cardiopulmonary problems, or those unable to attend in-person sessions are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional study enrolls adults with a first-ever ischemic stroke in the subacute period (1–6 months) who meet cognitive and motor-function criteria and can participate in lower-extremity exercise. Enrolled participants will be assigned to either a HIIT program or an MCIT program delivered as supervised exercise sessions. Outcomes include changes in muscle mass, muscle strength, functional capacity (including walking), quality of life, and clinical outcomes related to recovery. The study focuses on stroke-related sarcopenia and compares the two exercise approaches to see which produces greater improvements.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could help stroke survivors regain muscle mass and strength faster and improve functional independence and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Exercise programs including HIIT have shown benefits for fitness and some functional outcomes in cardiovascular and post-stroke rehab, but using HIIT specifically to treat stroke-related sarcopenia is less well established.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * First-ever stroke. * Age 18 years or older. * Diagnosis of ischemic stroke. * Stroke duration between 1-6 months (subacute phase). * Modified Rankin Scale score \< 3. * Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score ≥ 24. * Brunnstrom lower extremity motor stage between Stage III-V. * Lower extremity functional capacity sufficient to allow exercise participation (able to ambulate at least with an assistive device). * Lower extremity spasticity ≤ 2 according to the Modified Ashworth Scale. * Independent sitting balance (able to sit unsupported for at least 30 seconds). * Presence of sufficient voluntary active movement in the lower extremity to permit exercise application. * Ability to communicate. * Willingness to participate in the study and provision of written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of hemispatial neglect. * History of recurrent stroke. * Presence of a psychiatric disorder. * Presence of orthopedic, neurological, or cardiopulmonary conditions that would contraindicate the planned exercise protocols.
Where it's running
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Fenerbahçe University
Istanbul, Ataşehir, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sümeyye Akçay, Asst. Prof. — Fenerbahçe University
- Study coordinator: Sümeyye Akçay, Asst. Prof.
- Email: smyye.akcy@gmail.com
- Phone: +905424002553
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.