LAUSR

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of combined exercise training on functional performance in participants with cerebral palsy. Methods: Fifteen participants with spastic cerebral palsy were randomly allocated into either exercise or control groups. Participants in the exercise group participated in a combined strength and endurance training program for 70 minutes per day, 3 days per week, for 8 weeks, whereas those in the control group did not participate in an exercise program. Study participants in both groups continued with their regular physical therapy during the study. Results: After the 8-week training, a 6-minute walk, 30-second sit-to-stand, 10-m walk, and Functional Reach Tests, participants in the exercise group had significant improvement over their baseline values and were significantly higher than those in the control group. Conclusions: Combined exercise training improved walking ability, functional lower limb strength, and balance in participants with cerebral palsy.