Introduction: This abstract describes the trajectory of physiological and subjective responses to exercise during novel group cardiovascular training implemented at the Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital (JRH). Objective: Describe longitudinal changes in heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure, and self-perceived exertion (Borg rating) in response to exercise. Methods: Ten stroke individuals participated in an 8 week program of 2 x 25-40 minute sessions/week (3 treadmills and 7 recumbent steppers). Responses were collected during training, adjusted for workload by dividing by resistance level or speed, and analyzed after week 1, week 4-5, and week 8. Results: At 8 weeks, only two stroke individuals trained at target heart rates (THR). The recumbent stepper group showed a decrease in HR/Resistance level of 32.4% at week 4 & 5, and 36.0% at week 8; a decrease in mmHg/Resistance level of 35.7% at week 4 & 5, and 40.8% at week 8; a decrease in Borg rating/Resistance level of 36.0% at week 4 & 5, and 58.3% at week 8. The treadmill group showed a decrease in HR/mph of 3.6% at week 4 & 5, and 13.1% at week 8; a decrease in mmHg/mph of 10.5% at week 4 & 5, and 25.1% at week 8. Decreased adjusted HR, systolic blood pressure, and Borg rating after 8 weeks suggests improved cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). Conclusion:  Decreasing trends in ratios show this group training increases CRF but participants do not reach intensities providing enough stimulus for optimal improvements. Effective techniques for training at THR are necessary during stroke rehabilitation.

A clinical perspective on outcomes of a cardiovascular group training in stroke rehabilitation