Discussion
stroke
ADVERSE EVENTS, STROKE
This study aimed to investigate whether moderate intensity aerobic exercise could enhance neuroplasticity in people with stroke. Our measure of neuroplasticity was the change in MEP amplitude after administering iTBS. We observed a stronger iTBS response for people allocated to the exercise group, compared to those in the control group. These preliminary findings might suggest that moderate intensity aerobic exercise could be used to enhance neuroplasticity in people with stroke. Given no adverse events were noted, it appears this is a safe method to modify brain activity. Therefore, moderate intensity exercise might be a clinically feasible method to prime the brain for enhanced stroke recovery in people who are months to years post stroke.