Post-Stroke Optimization of Walking Using Explosive Resistance

Inclusion Criteria: * age 50-70 * stroke within the past 6 to 60 months * residual paresis in the lower extremity (Fugl-Meyer LE motor score \<34) * ability to walk without assistance and without an AFO during testing and training at speeds ranging from 0.2-0.8 m/s * no antidepressant medications or no change in doses of psychotropic medication for at least 4 weeks prior to the study (6 weeks if newly initiated medication) * HRSD question #9 regarding suicide \<2; and 7) provision of informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Unable to ambulate at least 150 feet prior to stroke, or experienced intermittent claudication while walking * history of congestive heart failure, unstable cardiac arrhythmias, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, severe aortic stenosis, angina or dyspnea at rest or during ADL's * History of COPD or oxygen dependence * Preexisting neurological disorders, dementia or previous stroke * History of major head trauma * Legal blindness or severe visual impairment * history of psychosis or other Axis I disorder that is primary * Life expectancy \<1 yr. * Severe arthritis or other problems that limit passive ROM * History of DVT or pulmonary embolism within 6 months * Uncontrolled diabetes with recent weight loss, diabetic coma, or frequent insulin reactions * Severe hypertension with systolic \>200 mmHg and diastolic \>110 mmHg at rest * attempt of suicide in the last 2 years or at suicidal risk assessed by SCID interview * History of seizures or currently prescribed …