Defining Optimal Aerobic Exercise Parameters to Affect Complex Motor and Cognitive Outcomes after Stroke: A Systematic Review and Synthesis

Figure 5

Proposed model of how aerobic exercise affects stroke outcomes. Aerobic exercise, by enhancing the neuroplastic milieu (increased neurotrophins, synaptogenesis, and dendritic branching and reducing oxidative stress), may improve cognition. AE, when combined with skilled task training, may potentiate relearning and recovery in two ways, (1) indirectly by improving attention and working memory to enhance relearning or (2) directly by enhancing activity-induced plasticity.