Multi-modal Training Program to Promote Physical Activity After Stroke

The goal of this study is to learn if a behavioral change intervention can improve physical activity in stroke survivors living in the community.

The main question it aims to answer is, if a behaviour change intervention and personalised physical activity prescription, are effective in improving the time spent in moderate to vigorous physical activity amongst chronic stroke survivors.

Researchers will compare the intervention group to a control group, to see if physical activity counselling and a personalized physical activity prescription is more effective in improving moderate to vigorous physical activity, than usual care alone. The study period for each participant is 6 months. Assessments are conducted at month 1 (baseline), 3 and 6.

The control group will receive only usual care, which consists of an information sheet on physical activity with the following content: (1) Why be active and (2) How to be active (with URL links to resources and videos). The usual care is delivered at 3-time points during month 1, 3 and 6.

The intervention group will receive usual care and a behavioral change intervention. The behavioral change intervention consists of up to 6 individual physical activity counselling sessions and a personalized physical activity prescription. The 6 sessions will take place only during months 1 to 3 and there will be no intervention during months 4 to 6. Of the 6 sessions, 3 are conducted face-to-face and another 3 sessions will take place using telehealth methods such as phone, text messaging and videoconference. Participants can meet the study physiotherapist at their preferred exercise space during the 3 face-to-face sessions. The physical activity counselling sessions consist of goal setting and action planning, and problem-solving barriers around participation in physical activity. The overall aim is to increase time spent in moderate-vigorous physical activity.