Exercise instructor-led functional training programme for community dwelling stroke survivors: A qualitative study

Background: Action for Rehabilitation in Neurological Injury (ARNI) is a novel community-based training programme that promotes functional independence and physical fitness in stroke survivors after formal rehabilitation. Method: We investigated the experiences of 22 stroke survivors enrolled in the 12-week programme, through their additional participation in one of four focus groups. Guidance topics informed the discussions, which were audio-recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis was conducted by two independent researchers and consensus reached on the overarching themes. Results: The programme was described as overwhelmingly positive, with ascribed benefits in physical, functional and social activities, leading to a reported increase in active participation in life. Key contextual factors were discussed as being critical to develop these benefits including: the balance of group and 1:1 training, the nature of challenge in the activities and the de-medicalisation of both the environment and the intervention itself. Conclusions: Group-based ARNI was reported as having a positive impact on function and participation in life post-stroke. This study indicates a need for further examination of the objective impact of the ARNI programme.