High-intensity interval versus moderate continuous exercise for stroke-related muscle loss
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
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
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 32 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Fenerbahce University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Istanbul, Ataşehir) |
| Trial ID | NCT07456956 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
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.
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.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Istanbul, Ataşehir
- 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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.