PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of progressive resistance and balance (PRB) exercises on physical and psychological functions of post-stroke individuals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a randomized controlled trial with follow-up at 3, 6 and 15 months, 67 community-living individuals (76% male; 65 to 85 years) with a stroke 1 to 3 years previously were allocated to an intervention group (IG, n = 34; PRB exercises combined with motivational group discussions twice weekly for 3 months) or a control group (CG, n = 33). The primary outcomes were balance (Berg Balance Scale, 0 to 56 points) and mobility (Short Physical Performance Battery, 0 to 12 points) at 3 months. The secondary outcomes were 10 m comfortable walking speed, physical activity levels, health-related quality of life, depression and fall-related self-efficacy. RESULTS: At 3 months, the IG exhibited significant improvements in balance (MD 2.5 versus 0 points; effect size (ES), 0.72; p < 0.01) and comfortable walking speed (MD 0.04 versus -0.05 m/s; ES, 0.68; p = 0.01) relative to the CG. A faster walking speed persisted at 6 months. No differences were found for the other outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: In chronic stroke patients, 3 months of PRB exercises and motivational discussions induced improvements in balance at 3 months and in walking speed at 3 and 6 months.

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