Translating scientific recommendations into reality: a feasibility study using group-based high-intensity functional exercise training in adolescents with cerebral palsy

Alice Minghetti; Michèle Widmer; Elke Viehweger; Ralf Roth; Ramon Gysin; Martin Keller

doi:10.1080/09638288.2023.2290204

Translating scientific recommendations into reality: a feasibility study using group-based high-intensity functional exercise training in adolescents with cerebral palsy

Disabil Rehabil. 2023 Dec 2:1-10. doi: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2290204. Online ahead of print.

Authors

Alice Minghetti¹, Michèle Widmer², Elke Viehweger^{2

3}, Ralf Roth¹, Ramon Gysin⁴, Martin Keller¹

Affiliations

¹ Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
² Neuroorthopaedics and Motion Analysis Unit, Department of Orthopaedics, University Children's Hospital beider Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
³ Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Allschwil, Switzerland.
⁴ CrossFit Basel GmbH, Basel, Switzerland.

PMID: 38042988
DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2290204

Abstract

Purpose: To examine the feasibility and effects of a functional high-intensity exercise intervention performed in a group-setting on functionality, cardiovascular health and physical performance in adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods: Ten adolescents with a diagnosis of CP (2 females; 16.6 ± 3.4 years; GMFCS: I-II) participated in a 12-week training intervention, containing progressive resistance training using free weights and high-intensity workouts twice a week. The six-minute walking test, arterial stiffness and physical performance (strength and power tests) were measured before and after the intervention.

Results: No adverse events were reported. We measured small increases in the six-minute walking test (Δ = 28.8 m, 95% CI [-1.78;52.7]; g = 0.34 [-0.04;0.72]) and a small reduction in arterial stiffness (Δ = -4.65% [-10.90;1.25]; g = -0.46 [-1.36;0.21]). All measures of physical performance increased (0.24 ≤ g ≤ 0.88).

Conclusion: Functional training with free weights in high-functioning adolescents with CP is safe and effective in increasing parameters of physical performance and cardiovascular health. Positively influenced indicators of everyday independence (i.e. strength parameters) showed a transfer into movements of daily life. Concerns about adverse events through high-intensity training in adolescents with CP appear unjustified when training is performed progressively, following basic training principles.

Keywords: Resistance training; disability; endurance; functionality; strength.

Plain language summary

High-intensity functional exercise in a group-setting is safe in high functioning adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) when following basic training principles.Compound, multi-joint movements performed at high intensities show a transfer-effect into daily functionality.High-intensity resistance training combined with anaerobic and aerobic exercise should be included in standard therapy for high-functioning adolescents with CP.The group-setting shows potential as innovative strategy for long-term training effectiveness.