INTRODUCTION: An increasing number of training programs with positive results has been proposed for rehabilitationof stroke survivors with motor impairments. However, few studies offer recommendations regarding indicationsfor specific techniques and procedures. OBJECTIVE: To review data from the literature about training and exerciseprograms in patients with hemiparesis following stroke regarding walking training, lower limb strengthening andcardiorespiratory 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, gaittraining and exercise programs for lower limbs after stroke. RESULTS: It was found 27 articles reporting on varioustraining and exercise techniques (gait training, cardiovascular training, muscle strengthening, and others) andtheir results on the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and neurological systems, as well as functional status in strokepatients. 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 alwaysallow the recommendation of specific procedures in clinical practice.

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