Users' experiences of intensive robotic-assisted gait training post-stroke - "a push forward or feeling pushed around?"

The gait training intervention including RAGT was considered demanding but appreciated. Support and concrete, individual feedback was crucial for motivation, whilst the lack of variation was a barrier. Results encourage further development of exoskeletons that are comfortable to wear and stimulate active participation by enabling smoothly synchronised movements performed during task-specific activities in different environments. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONWhen provided in a suitable context, the mental and physical challenges of intensive robotic-assisted gait training can be both inspiring and motivating.Support and engagement along with informative feedback from therapists are suggested crucial for motivation.Intensive task-specific gait training may preferably be performed in an enriched environment and combined with other physiotherapy treatments to stimulate engagement.