Article

The aim of this study was to directly compare the effects of aerobic
training (AT) with progressive resistance training (RT) after stroke to determine
whether AT-induced fitness gains or RT-induced strength gains translate into
improved ambulation across a 12-wk intervention and whether gains are retained 1
yr after cessation of formal training. This study is a randomized
controlled 12-wk intervention trial with a 1-yr follow-up. Forty-three
community-dwelling independent walkers with a chronic ischemic hemiparetic stroke
were allocated to AT using a cycle ergometer (n = 13), RT using training machines
(n = 14), or low-intensity sham training of the arms (n = 16).
The main outcome
measures were 6-min walk distance and fast 10-m walking speed. RESULTS:
Comparisons between AT, RT, and sham training revealed no clinically relevant
effects on walking velocity or walking distance. Muscle strength improved after
RT (P < 0.0001) and was preserved at 1-yr follow-up (P < 0.001). Aerobic capacity
increased after AT (P < 0.001) but was lost during the follow-up observation
period. CONCLUSIONS: Improvement of muscle strength or aerobic capacity using
non-task-specific training methods does not result in improved ambulation in
patients with chronic stroke. Muscle strength gains were maintained at follow-up,
whereas all improvements of aerobic capacity were lost, indicating a long-lasting
effect of intensive RT even without maintenance training.

Langue : ANGLAIS