High-intensity exercise intervention after stroke in an inpatient rehabilitation setting: A study protocol for a randomized controlled trial (Preprint)

BACKGROUND High-intensity exercise (HIE) improves functional outcomes in chronic stroke populations, primarily in outpatient settings. However, limited evidence exists regarding its safety, feasibility, and effectiveness in acute and subacute inpatient rehabilitation settings. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and feasibility of HIE implemented during inpatient rehabilitation in individuals within 3 months post-stroke. METHODS This single-blinded, parallel-group randomized controlled trial will recruit up to 36 adults admitted for acute ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke requiring inpatient rehabilitation. Participants will be randomized 1:1 to receive either HIE (70–89% peak heart rate, 60–84% heart rate reserve, or Borg RPE 14–16) or lower-intensity exercise (