Community cycling exercise for stroke survivors is feasible and acceptable

Introduction
Physical activity is recommended after stroke but levels for stroke survivors are typically low. The use of indoor recumbent cycling, delivered through local government leisure facilities, may increase access to exercise among stroke survivors. This study evaluated the acceptability and feasibility of an indoor cycling programme delivered through existing local government services.
Methods
Participants were recruited through stroke liaison nurses and public advertising. After a home visit to assess eligibility and conduct psychological and general health assessments, participants attended their local leisure centre for an initial fitness test and short battery of physical tests. Then an eight week training programme was designed with weekly goals. Following the programme the assessments were retaken along with an evaluation questionnaire. In-depth, semi-structured, interviews were conducted with 15 participants and 5 fitness coaches.
Results
115 individuals volunteered to participate during a 10 month recruitment period, 77 met the inclusion criteria and consented, 66/77 (86%) completed the programme including all nine non-ambulatory participants. The programme and procedures (recruitment and outcome measures) were feasible and acceptable to participants (81% reported following the programme). Participants were generally very positive about the experience. Significant improvements in sit-to-stand capacity (Mpre=25.2s, Mpost=19.0s, p=.002), activities of daily living (NEADL, Mpre=12.2, Mpost=13.2, p=.002), psychosocial functioning (SAQOL, Mpre=3.82, Mpost=4.15, p=.001), energy (SAQOL, Mpre=3.75, Mpost=4.02, p=.018) and depression (GHQ, Mpre=.97, Mpost=.55, p=.009) were observed.
Conclusion
A cycling based exercise programme delivered through local leisure centre staff and facilities was shown to be feasible and acceptable for people living with stroke.