THE EFFECT OF HIGH-INTENSITY INTERVAL TRAINING ON GAIT PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Background: The provision of rehabilitation services as soon as possible use of the most effective methods, which have scientific evidence, are extremely relevant today. Objective: To study the effect of high-intensity interval training on gait performance in patients after stroke. Research sample and method: The study involved 12 males who had suffered a stroke and met the selection criteria. All the males went through a special program that included high-intensity intervals of gait training combined with strength training of lower limbs and functional training. Results: The results of the final examination showed significant changes in all the studied indicators in all 12 patients. Statistically significant changes were determined in total score of the Berg Balance Scale, which comprised ± 40.5 on average, making a clinically significant change in balance indicators by ± 16 points. According to the Six Minute Walk Test, the number of meters covered in six minutes increased to ± 189.5 meters, which is ± 106.5 meters more and it therefore indicates positive changes in endurance. A Timed Up and Go Test also showed clinically significant changes, since patients performed the task within 14 seconds on average, which is ± 15.5 seconds faster than at the beginning. A 10-Meter Walk Test showed improved results of patients' gait speed, which comprised 10.5 seconds, being ± 11.5 seconds faster in comparison with the initial results. Conclusion: The program of high-intensity interval training aimed to improve gait performance proved its effectiveness and enables to conduct its further comparisons with other types and methods of physiotherapy after stroke.