The results revealed that despite significant strength gains , many studies failed to show a significant improvement in walking capacity .
Strength testing and strengthening exercises were prioritized for the knee extensors and flexors , despite their relatively minor role in human walking .
Strengthening exercises performed in the neurologic population are not specific to the main muscle groups responsible for the power generation required for walking .
There is a predisposition for strength testing and strengthening exercises to focus on the knee flexors and extensors despite their relatively minor role during walking .
The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the task specificity of strength training programs for walking in neurologic rehabilitation .
Progressive resistance training after stroke: effects on muscle strength, muscle tone, gait performance and perceived participation.
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of progressive resistance training on muscle strength , muscle tone , gait performance and perceived participation after stroke . DESIGN A r and omized controlled trial . SUBJECTS Twenty-four subjects ( mean age 61 years ( st and ard deviation 5 ) ) 6 - 48 months post-stroke . METHODS The training group ( n = 15 ) participated in supervised progressive resistance training of the knee muscles ( 80 % of maximum ) twice weekly for 10 weeks , and the control group ( n = 9 ) continued their usual daily activities . Both groups were assessed before and after the intervention and at follow-up after 5 months . Muscle strength was evaluated dynamically and isokinetically ( 60 degrees /sec ) and muscle tone by the Modified Ashworth Scale . Gait performance was evaluated by Timed " Up & Go " , Fast Gait Speed and 6-Minute Walk tests , and perceived participation by Stroke Impact Scale . RESULTS Muscle strength increased significantly after progressive resistance training with no increase in muscle tone and improvements were maintained at follow-up . Both groups improved in gait performance , but at follow-up only Timed " Up & Go " and perceived participation were significantly better for the training group . CONCLUSIONS Progressive resistance training is an effective intervention to improve muscle strength in chronic stroke . There appear to be long-term benefits , but further studies are needed to clarify the effects , specifically of progressive resistance training on gait performance and participation
The results revealed that despite significant strength gains , many studies failed to show a significant improvement in walking capacity .
Strength testing and strengthening exercises were prioritized for the knee extensors and flexors , despite their relatively minor role in human walking .
Strengthening exercises performed in the neurologic population are not specific to the main muscle groups responsible for the power generation required for walking .
There is a predisposition for strength testing and strengthening exercises to focus on the knee flexors and extensors despite their relatively minor role during walking .
The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the task specificity of strength training programs for walking in neurologic rehabilitation .