RecruitingInterventional

Online arm-crank exercise programme for people with spinal cord injury (SCI)

Staying active after a spinal cord injury can be challenging, but regular exercise is vital for long-term health. Researchers at the University of Birmingham are testing a new 12-week home exercise programme designed specifically for people with long-term spinal cord injuries who use a wheelchair. The study uses an arm-crank machine, which works like a bicycle pedalled with your arms rather than your legs. Participants will join live group exercise classes via Zoom three times a week, or use recorded videos if they prefer. You will wear a heart rate monitor and check in regularly about how your body feels. This study aims to find out if this online programme is easy and enjoyable to follow at home. If successful, it could help shape future fitness services offered across the NHS to help people stay strong, independent, and healthy.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Birmingham

Enrolment target

Start

12 Aug 2026

Estimated completion

31 Jul 2027

Spinal cord injury

What is this study about?

Living with a spinal cord injury can make everyday movement harder, and finding safe, accessible ways to exercise is often a challenge. Keeping physically active is very important for heart health, muscle strength, and general mood. Researchers want to see whether an online, home-based exercise routine can offer a practical and fun solution.

The programme focuses on arm-crank exercise. This involves turning pedals with your hands and arms while seated, giving your heart and upper body a workout similar to riding a bicycle. Instead of having to travel to a gym or hospital clinic, participants can join friendly group sessions over Zoom right from their own living room.

This is a feasibility study, which means the main goal is to test whether the programme runs smoothly and whether people enjoy taking part. Researchers will gather feedback on what works and what could be better. The findings will help design larger future trials and could eventually lead to new, accessible exercise services across the NHS.

Key takeaways

A 12-week home workout study for people aged 16 and over with a spinal cord injury.
Uses arm bikes during online Zoom classes three times a week.
Designed to see if home exercise classes are practical, safe, and enjoyable.
Run by the University of Birmingham and funded by the NIHR.
Completely home-based with no need to travel to a clinic.

Who may be eligible?

This study is open to adults and young people aged 16 and over who have a stable spinal cord injury affecting the neck, upper back, or lower back. To be eligible, you must use a wheelchair for at least 75% of your waking hours and have enough arm strength to turn the handles of an arm-crank machine. You will also need a computer, tablet, or smartphone with an internet connection that can run Zoom, and be able to follow instructions in English.

You will not be able to take part if you have an acute or unstable medical condition that makes exercise unsafe, or if a doctor or physiotherapist has advised you not to exercise without direct supervision. In addition, you cannot join if you are currently taking part in another clinical research study focused on rehabilitation or health management.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

I am aged 16 or over.
I have a medically stable spinal cord injury.
I use a wheelchair for at least 75% of my waking hours.
I have enough arm strength to pedal an arm bike.
I have a device and internet connection capable of running Zoom.
My doctor has not advised me against exercising on my own.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

Taking part lasts for 12 weeks and is done entirely from home. You will be invited to join three workout sessions each week. These are held live in small online groups via Zoom, but you can also use recorded sessions if you need flexibility. You will wear a heart rate monitor during workouts to track your effort, and every two weeks you will complete a quick check-in about your tiredness levels and shoulder comfort. There are no drugs or hospital visits involved. At the end of the 12 weeks, you will complete a short survey and join a group discussion to share your thoughts on the experience.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part may help improve your upper body strength, seated balance, heart fitness, and mental wellbeing. However, as with any exercise routine, there is a possibility of muscle soreness, fatigue, or shoulder strain. The study team will track your comfort and safety every two weeks to minimise these risks. Taking part is entirely voluntary, and you are free to stop or withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason and without affecting your normal healthcare.

Locations (3)

University of Birmingham
Approximate
Birmingham, England
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
City only
Sheffield, England
Stoke Mandeville Hospital
Approximate
Aylesbury, England

Common questions

Do I have to buy any special equipment?

No. The study team provides the arm-crank exercise equipment and heart rate monitor for you to use at home.

What happens if I miss a live online class?

You can catch up by watching recorded sessions at a time that works best for your schedule.

Does taking part cost anything?

No, taking part in this study is completely free, and you will not have to travel anywhere.

What is an arm-crank machine?

It is an exercise machine similar to a stationary bike, but you pedal it using your hands and arms while seated.

Will this study affect my usual NHS treatment?

No. Your regular medical care, rehabilitation, and doctor appointments will continue as normal throughout the study.

How to find out more

Chloe Chiou

arm-crank-study@contacts.bham.ac.uk +44(0)121 414 5315 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.