Effect of circuit training program on functional performance in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy

Abstract

Background: There is a plethora of literature with some conflicting findings on the effects of implementing strength and/or aerobic training or circuit training exercises to improve motor function of children with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy (CP). Circuit training is a form of body conditioning that involves endurance training, resistance training, high-intensity aerobics, and exercises performed in a circuit. Purpose: To investigate the effect of circuit training program on gross motor functions and functional capacity in children with hemiplegic CP. Methods: Thirty-two children with hemiplegic CP from both genders (8-12 years) with motor functional level of I and II based on Gross Motor Functional Classification System were assigned into two equal groups (control and study). The control group received a selected conventional physical therapy program for 60 minutes, including 35 minutes directed to lower limb. The study group received circuit training program for 35 minutes. The program for both groups was conducted twice per week for 12 successive weeks. Gross motor functions and functional capacity of both groups were evaluated by the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) version 66 (Domains D and E) and the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) respectively before as well as after the treatment period.