Potential Factors Influencing Heart Rates During Locomotor Training Poststroke and Their Associations With Locomotor Outcomes.
J Neurol Phys TherJun 30, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchPhysical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Thomas George Hornby, Christina J Voigtmann, Lindsay Heffron et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial examined factors influencing heart rates during locomotor training in 90 individuals over six months poststroke. The study found that achieving higher heart rates during graded exercise testing was associated with faster peak treadmill speeds (r = 0.60, P < 0.01), but training heart rates did not significantly impact locomotor outcomes, particularly in those using β-blockers.
Key findings
- Higher heart rates during graded exercise testing correlated with faster peak treadmill speeds (r = 0.60, P < 0.01).
- β-blocker use was associated with lower heart rate reserves during training (r = -0.23, P < 0.05).
- Only 40% of participants achieved >70% heart rate reserves during high-intensity training.
- Ratings of perceived exertion were correlated with walking speeds/distances regardless of β-blocker use.
Why it matters
Understanding the factors that influence heart rate responses during rehabilitation can help clinicians tailor locomotor training programs for poststroke patients, potentially improving their functional outcomes.