Effect of Circuit Class Training for Eight Weeks on Changes in Ratios of F-Trp/BCAAs and Depression in People with Poststroke Depression

[Purpose] The purpose of the present study was to investigate the potential effects of circuit class training (CCT) on poststroke depression through changes in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) (isoleucine, leucine, and valine) and free-tryptophan (f-Trp). [Subjects] The study subjects were 40 stroke patients with major depressive disorder. The subjects were group-matched into an experimental and a control group according to sex, age, height, and weight. [Methods] The experimental CCT group performed gradual task-oriented CCT (80 min per session). The control group performed stretching exercises and weight bearing exercises (80 min per session). Both groups performed the exercises three times per week for eight weeks (24 sessions). Blood samples were collected immediately before the exercise (9:10 a.m.) and after the exercise (10:30 a.m.), every two weeks for eight weeks. [Results] The f-Trp/BCAAs ratio in the CCT group showed a significant increase compared to the control group over time. [Conclusion] The results show that the CCT may help to improve depression in people with poststroke depression (PSD).