Recumbent Cross-Training Is a Feasible and Safe Mode of Physical Activity for Significantly Motor-Impaired Adults With Cerebral Palsy

ObjectiveTo examine the feasibility and potential benefits of using recumbent cross-training for nonambulatory adults with cerebral palsy (CP).DesignObservational.SettingClinical center for CP treatment and rehabilitation.ParticipantsSignificantly motor-impaired adults with CP (N=11) with a mean age ± SD of 36.3±13.2 years and Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels III and IV.InterventionsParticipants completed a 40-minute session of aerobic exercise using the NuStep Recumbent Cross Trainer, in which resistance was progressively increased at 5-minute intervals.Main Outcome MeasuresEvery 5 minutes during the exercise session, heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen consumption (V˙O2), energy expenditure, and respiratory exchange ratios (RERs) were recorded along with rating of perceived exertion. Immediately after, and 24 hours postexercise, participants received a standard survey to assess levels of pain and discomfort.ResultsAll participants were able to complete the 40-minute exercise protocol. Five of the 11 participants achieved a heart rate of at least 60% maximum throughout the duration, 10 participants had a significant elevation in V˙O2 from baseline, and all participants had elevated RER values. Six participants reported pain during exercise, but only 2 reported pain after exercise was over.ConclusionsThe NuStep Recumbent Cross Trainer is a feasible exercise modality for significantly motor-impaired adults with CP, GMFCS III and IV. Moreover, this mode was sufficient to stimulate a significant cardiorespiratory response in all participants, and thus it and similar devices may serve as a viable option for aerobic exercise interventions in this population, to prevent obesity and related cardiometabolic consequences.