Best Exercises for Stroke Recovery: What to Do (and When) for Faster Progress

If you’ve ever wondered “What are the best exercises for stroke recovery?”—you’re not alone. The truth is, not all exercises work for every stroke survivor. The best movements for you depend on your stage of recovery, your goals, and how your brain and body are healing. In this guide, we’ll break down what to do—and when—so you can build a recovery plan that actually works.

Whether you're just starting out or months (or years) post-stroke, this guide will show you how to move safely, activate your affected side, and recover faster with the right exercises at the right time.

🧭 How to Know What Exercises to Do First

Before jumping into any routine, it's critical to figure out what stage of recovery you're in. The Brunnstrom Stages of Stroke Recovery are one of the most helpful frameworks. They show how the body regains movement after a stroke—from flaccid paralysis (Stage 1) to advanced coordination (Stage 6).

🎯 Not sure what stage you’re in? Download our free 5-Minute Stroke Recovery Roadmap to find your stage and get stage-appropriate exercise recommendations.

🧱 Stage 1–2: Flaccid or Early Spasticity

🛏️ Best Exercises for Stroke Recovery at the Flaccid Stage

At this stage, you likely have no active movement or are just beginning to notice reflexive, spastic responses. Recovery starts with keeping the body safe and preparing the brain for movement.

Best Exercises:

• Passive range of motion (PROM)

• Supported joint positioning in bed or wheelchair

• Retrograde massage and skin brushing

• Mirror therapy for visualization

• Mental practice of movement (imagery)

✅ Watch: How to Move and Stretch a Stiff Limb After Stroke

🧱 Stage 3–4: Spasticity Peak & Early Voluntary Movement

🎯 Best Stroke Recovery Exercises for Early Movement Control

Spasticity may be strong here, but you're likely beginning to see some intentional movement. The goal is to shape that movement into function and prevent bad habits.

Best Exercises:

• Task-specific reaching (e.g. reaching for a cup)

• Functional electrical stimulation (like SABO)

• Grip strengthening with feedback

• Reaching in different planes (horizontal, vertical)

• Supported sit-to-stand transitions

• Seated weight shifting

✅ Try This: Stage 3 Home Exercise Routine

🧱 Stage 5–6: Advanced Movement & Coordination

🏃 Best Functional Exercises to Maximize Stroke Recovery

Now you're rebuilding coordination, balance, and strength. This is the time to push functional gains and train the brain for independence in real-life tasks.

Best Exercises:

• Obstacle course walking or stepping drills

• Dual-tasking (walking + cognitive task)

• Fine motor tasks (buttoning, zipping, tying shoes)

• Functional resistance training (e.g. carrying groceries)

• Standing balance on uneven surfaces

• Kitchen or bathroom task simulation

✅ Real Example: How Mary went from unable to cook or tie her shoes to fully independent in 12 weeks →

⚠️ Common Mistakes That Slow Recovery

Many stroke survivors unknowingly waste time or worsen symptoms by:

• ❌ Doing generic exercises not tailored to their stage

• ❌ Skipping days or not following a consistent plan

• ❌ Avoiding the affected side (learned non-use)

• ❌ Not knowing how to adjust exercises as they improve

📘 Learn how to safely stretch and move a spastic limb

✅ How to Build a Personalized Home Exercise Program

The best program:

• Matches your recovery stage

• Adjusts every 1–2 weeks based on progress

• Balances repetition, rest, and real-life tasks

• Tracks progress daily

🧠 Need help building this?

👉 Join our online stroke recovery coaching program for a fully personalized plan, progress tracking, and expert support.

🎓 Bonus Resources

• 📥 Free Stroke Recovery Roadmap: Know your stage and get tailored exercise ideas

• 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: Guided exercise videos by stage

• 💬 Book Stroke Strategy Week: Try a full week of support for just $147

Stroke rehab in Indianapolis or online is within reach—and it starts with the right exercises at the right time. You’ve got this, and we’ve got your back.