Wen CP, et al. - This study was performed to examine whether pre-stroke physical activity was correlated with fewer post-stroke complications, lower mortality, and a better long-term outcome. The authors found an association between dedicated leisure time physical activity for at least 30 min/d, at least 3 times per week for more than 6 months with decreased stroke severity, fewer post-stroke complications, lower mortality, and better outcomes.

• The authors analyzed 39,835 cases of stroke registered in the nationwide stroke registry system of Taiwan between 2006 and 2009 according to 5 levels of severity as determined by NIHSS (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) score upon hospital admission.
• They defined pre-stroke physical activity in the Taiwan Stroke Registry as dedicated leisure time physical activity for at least 30 min/d for 3 d/week for more than 6 months.
• They used a Cox model to compare complications and outcomes between active and inactive groups.

• In age distribution and stroke type distribution, the active and inactive groups were comparable, but the active group had better NIHSS scores upon admission.
• As per the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), active patients had lower hospital mortality and better functional outcomes upon discharge.
• In the active group, improved functional status was significant at 1, 3, and 6 months post stroke.