INTRODUCTION: An increasing number of training programs with positive results has been proposed for rehabilitation of stroke survivors with motor impairments. However, few studies offer recommendations regarding indications for specific techniques and procedures. OBJECTIVE: To review data from the literature about training and exercise programs in patients with hemiparesis following stroke regarding walking training, lower limb strengthening and cardiorespiratory fitness, and to describe the efficacy, limitations and effect of such programs on cardiovascular, motor recovery and functional status. Method: It was made a search in relevant medical journals for articles of clinical trials, meta-analyses, and literature reviews pertaining to physical training, muscular strengthening, gait training and exercise programs for lower limbs after stroke. RESULTS: It was found 27 articles reporting on various training and exercise techniques (gait training, cardiovascular training, muscle strengthening, and others) and their results on the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and neurological systems, as well as functional status in stroke patients. CONCLUSION: Training and exercise programs have value in stroke rehabilitation, and published results are, in general, promising. The differences in the populations tested, methods, and criteria for analysis do not always allow the recommendation of specific procedures in clinical practice.
Stroke; Rehabilitation; Gait; Muscular strength; Physical fitness
