Cardiorespiratory training with GM Active
The network was delighted to collaboratively host a cardiorespiratory training day with local community leisure and fitness organisation GM Active.
The event focused on improving cardiorespiratory fitness and promoting long‑term physical activity for people post‑stroke across Greater Manchester. It covered the National Clinical Guideline for Stroke (2023) recommendations, which emphasise that most people with stroke or TIA should take part in regular, individualised exercise unless there is a specific contraindication. Participants were also introduced to the risk‑stratification tool to support decision‑making about when and for whom cardiorespiratory fitness exercise is appropriate.
The session explored current service provision across Greater Manchester and highlighted existing gaps. It aimed to address challenges such as inconsistent understanding of safe cardiorespiratory fitness delivery, varied use of outcome measures, and barriers including cost, transport and limited access to specialist staff. The training reinforced the importance of collaboration between NHS services and GM Active.
Each inpatient stroke rehabilitation team and community stroke team was invited to nominate 1–2 staff members to attend. These individuals will now be responsible for cascading the training within their local teams and supporting the integration of cardiorespiratory fitness post‑stroke into routine service delivery.