Effectiveness of Exercise Interventions for Improving Dual-Task Gait Speed in People with Stroke Sequelae: A Systematic Review

Background: The ability to perform simultaneous tasks, such as walking while engaging in cognitive or secondary motor activities, is crucial for autonomy post-stroke but is often impaired. Exercise-based interventions may improve dual-task gait performance. Methods: A systematic review following PRISMA 2020 guidelines (PROSPERO CRD420251082293) searched six databases for RCTs published between January 2017 and June 2025, including adults post-stroke receiving exercise-based interventions, with dual-task gait speed as the primary outcome. Data extraction and methodological quality assessment (PEDro scale) were conducted independently. A narrative synthesis was used due to heterogeneity in interventions and outcomes. Results: Seven RCTs (248 participants, 4–15 weeks) were included. Six studies reported statistically significant within-group improvements in dual-task gait speed (0.05–0.31 m/s), whereas one study showed no change. Between-group comparisons were largely inconsistent, with only one study indicating superiority of dual-task over single-task training. Methodological quality ranged from fair to good (PEDro 5–8/10). No serious adverse events were reported. Conclusions: Exercise-based interventions appear safe and can improve dual-task gait speed post-stroke. Evidence supporting the superiority of dual-task over single-task training remains inconclusive. Clinical application should consider individual goals, baseline performance, and cognitive-motor capacity. Future research should focus on larger, high-quality RCTs, standardized protocols, and clinically meaningful thresholds for dual-task gait speed.