1
|
The Science of Handcycling: A Narrative Review. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2022; 17:335-342. [DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2021-0458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this narrative review is to provide insight as to the history, biomechanics, and physiological characteristics of competitive handcycling. Furthermore, based upon the limited evidence available, this paper aims to provide practical training suggestions by which to develop competitive handcycling performance. Handbike configuration, individual physiological characteristics, and training history all play a significant role in determining competitive handcycling performance. Optimal handcycling technique is highly dependent upon handbike configuration. As such, seat positioning, crank height, crank fore-aft position, crank length, and handgrip position must all be individually configured. In regard to physiological determinants, power output at a fixed blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol·L−1, relative oxygen consumption, peak aerobic power output, relative upper body strength, and maximal anaerobic power output have all been demonstrated to impact upon handcycling performance capabilities. Therefore, it is suggested that that an emphasis be placed upon the development and frequent monitoring of these parameters. Finally, linked to handcycling training, it is suggested that handcyclists should consider adopting a concurrent strength and endurance training approach, based upon a block periodization model that employs a mixture of endurance, threshold, interval, and strength training sessions. Despite our findings, it is clear that several gaps in our scientific knowledge of handcycling remain and that further research is necessary in order to improve our understanding of factors that determine optimal performance of competitive handcyclists. Finally, further longitudinal research is required across all classifications to study the effects of different training programs upon handcycling performance.
Collapse
|
2
|
Abonie US, Albada T, Morrien F, van der Woude L, Hettinga F. Effects of 7-week Resistance Training on Handcycle Performance in Able-bodied Males. Int J Sports Med 2021; 43:46-54. [PMID: 34380150 DOI: 10.1055/a-1373-6033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The effect of an upper body resistance training program on maximal and submaximal handcycling performance in able-bodied males was explored. Eighteen able-bodied men were randomly assigned to a training group (TG: n=10) and a control group (CG: n=8). TG received 7 weeks of upper body resistance training (60% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM), 3×10 repetitions, 6 exercise stations, 2 times per week). CG received no training. Peak values for oxygen uptake (V˙O2peak), power output (POpeak), heart rate (HRpeak), minute ventilation (V˙OEpeak) and respiratory exchange ratio (RERpeak), submaximal values (HR, V˙O2, RER, PO, and gross mechanical efficiency (GE)), and time to exhaustion (TTE) were determined in an incremental test pre- and post-training. Maximal isokinetic arm strength and 1RM tests were conducted. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were assessed. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA and post-hoc comparisons were performed to examine the effect of time, group and its interaction (p<0.05). TG improved on POpeak (8.55%), TTE (10.73%), and 1RM (12.28-38.98%). RPE at the same stage during pre- and post-test was lower during the post-test (8.17%). Despite no improvements in V˙O2peak, training improved POpeak, muscular strength, and TTE. Upper body resistance training has the potential to improve handcycling performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulric Sena Abonie
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Tryntje Albada
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Floor Morrien
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Lucas van der Woude
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Florentina Hettinga
- Department of Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Heinrich I, Rosenthal F, Patra S, Schulz KH, Welsch GH, Vettorazzi E, Rosenkranz SC, Stellmann JP, Ramien C, Pöttgen J, Gold SM, Heesen C. Arm Ergometry to Improve Mobility in Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (AMBOS)-Results of a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. Front Neurol 2021; 12:644533. [PMID: 34349716 PMCID: PMC8326796 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.644533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Walking disability is one of the most frequent and burdening symptoms of progressive multiple sclerosis (MS). Most of the exercise intervention studies that showed an improvement in mobility performance were conducted in low to moderately disabled relapsing-remitting MS patients with interventions using the legs. However, MS patients with substantial walking disability hardly can perform these tasks. Earlier work has indicated that aerobic arm training might also improve walking performance and could therefore be a therapeutic option in already moderately disabled progressive MS patients. Methods: Patients with progressive MS and EDSS 4-6.5 were randomized using a computer-generated algorithm list to either a waitlist control group (CG) or an intervention group (IG). The IG performed a 12-week home-based, individualized arm ergometry exercise training program. Maximum walking distance as measured by the 6-min walking test (6MWT) was the primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints included aerobic fitness, other mobility tests, cognitive functioning, as well as fatigue and depression. Results: Of n = 86 screened patients, 53 with moderate disability (mean EDSS 5.5, SD 0.9) were included and data of 39 patients were analyzed. Patients in the IG showed strong adherence to the program with a mean of 67 (SD 26.4) training sessions. Maximum work load (P max) increased in the training group while other fitness indicators did not. Walking distance in the 6MWT improved in both training and waitlist group but not significantly more in trained patients. Similarly, other mobility measures showed no differential group effect. Cognitive functioning remained unchanged. No serious events attributable to the intervention occurred. Conclusion: Although maximum work load improved, 3 months of high-frequency arm ergometry training of low to moderate intensity could not show improved walking ability or cognitive functioning in progressive MS compared to a waitlist CG. The study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03147105) and funded by the local MS self-help organization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inga Heinrich
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Friederike Rosenthal
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Patra
- Universitäres Kompetenzzentrum für Sport- und Bewegungsmedizin (Athleticum) und Institut und Poliklinik für Medizinische Psychologie, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karl-Heinz Schulz
- Universitäres Kompetenzzentrum für Sport- und Bewegungsmedizin (Athleticum) und Institut und Poliklinik für Medizinische Psychologie, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Götz H. Welsch
- Universitäres Kompetenzzentrum für Sport- und Bewegungsmedizin (Athleticum) und Institut und Poliklinik für Medizinische Psychologie, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Eik Vettorazzi
- Department of Biometry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sina C. Rosenkranz
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jan Patrick Stellmann
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- APHM, Hospital de la Timone, CEMEREM, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, CRMBM, UMR 7339, Marseille, France
| | - Caren Ramien
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jana Pöttgen
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan M. Gold
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
- Division of Psychosomatic Medicine, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Medical Department, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Heesen
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Abonie US, Monden P, van der Woude L, Hettinga FJ. Effect of a 7-week low intensity synchronous handcycling training programme on physical capacity in abled-bodied women. J Sports Sci 2021; 39:1472-1480. [DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2021.1880171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ulric S. Abonie
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Paul Monden
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Lucas van der Woude
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Rehabilitation, Groningen, The Netherlands
- School of Sport, Exercise & Health Sciences, Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Florentina J. Hettinga
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kraaijenbrink C, Vegter R, de Groot S, Arnet U, Valent L, Verellen J, van Breukelen K, Hettinga F, Perret C, Abel T, Goosey-Tolfrey V, van der Woude L. Biophysical aspects of handcycling performance in rehabilitation, daily life and recreational sports; a narrative review. Disabil Rehabil 2020; 43:3461-3475. [DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1815872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra Kraaijenbrink
- Center for Human Movement Sciences Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Movement Science, Institute for Sport Science, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Riemer Vegter
- Center for Human Movement Sciences Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- European Research Group in Disability Sport (ERGiDS)
| | - Sonja de Groot
- Center for Human Movement Sciences Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- European Research Group in Disability Sport (ERGiDS)
- Amsterdam Rehabilitation Research Center, Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Linda Valent
- Heliomare Rehabilitation Center, Wijk aan Zee, The Netherlands
| | | | - Kees van Breukelen
- Handcycling Ergonomic Advisor (Sport)Wheelchair and Handbike Shop RD Mobility, Rijswijk, The Netherlands
- International Classifier for Handcycling, Wheelchairrugby, Wheelchairbasketball, Wheelchairhandball and PowerChair Hockey
| | | | - Claudio Perret
- European Research Group in Disability Sport (ERGiDS)
- Swiss Paraplegic Centre, Institute of Sports Medicine, Nottwil, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Abel
- European Research Group in Disability Sport (ERGiDS)
- Sports Sciences Center, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Victoria Goosey-Tolfrey
- European Research Group in Disability Sport (ERGiDS)
- School of Sports, Exercise and Health Sciences, Peter Harrison Center for Disability Sports, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Lucas van der Woude
- Center for Human Movement Sciences Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- European Research Group in Disability Sport (ERGiDS)
- Center for Rehabilitation, Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chaikhot D, Reed K, Petroongrad W, Athanasiou F, van Kooten D, Hettinga FJ. Effects of an Upper-Body Training Program Involving Resistance Exercise and High-Intensity Arm Cranking on Peak Handcycling Performance and Wheelchair Propulsion Efficiency in Able-Bodied Men. J Strength Cond Res 2020; 34:2267-2275. [DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000002738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
|
7
|
Stone B, Mason BS, Bundon A, Goosey-Tolfrey VL. Elite handcycling: a qualitative analysis of recumbent handbike configuration for optimal sports performance. ERGONOMICS 2019; 62:449-458. [PMID: 30281401 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2018.1531149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Our understanding of handbike configuration is limited, yet it can be a key determinant of performance in handcycling. This study explored how 14 handcycling experts (elite handcyclists, coaches, support staff, and manufacturers) perceived aspects of recumbent handbike configuration to impact upon endurance performance via semi-structured interviews. Optimising the handbike for comfort, stability, and power production was identified as key themes. Comfort and stability were identified to be the foundations of endurance performance and were primarily influenced by the seat, backrest, headrest, and their associated padding. Power production was determined by the relationship between the athletes' shoulder and abdomen and the trajectories of the handgrips, which were determined by the crank axis position, crank arm length, and handgrip width. Future studies should focus on quantifying the configuration of recumbent handbikes before determining the effects that crank arm length, handgrip width, and crank position have on endurance performance. Practitioner Summary: To gain a greater understanding of the impact of handbike configurations on endurance performance, the perceptions of expert handcyclists were explored qualitatively. Optimising the handbike for comfort and stability, primarily via backrest padding and power production, the position of the shoulders relative to handgrips and crank axis, were critical.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Stone
- a Peter Harrison Centre of Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences , Loughborough University , Loughborough , United Kingdom
| | - Barry S Mason
- a Peter Harrison Centre of Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences , Loughborough University , Loughborough , United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Bundon
- b School of Kinesiology , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , Canada
| | - Victoria L Goosey-Tolfrey
- a Peter Harrison Centre of Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences , Loughborough University , Loughborough , United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Nevin J, Smith P, Waldron M, Patterson S, Price M, Hunt A, Blagrove R. Efficacy of an 8-Week Concurrent Strength and Endurance Training program on Hand Cycling Performance. J Strength Cond Res 2018; 32:1861-1868. [DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000002569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
9
|
Schoenmakers P, Reed K, Van Der Woude L, Hettinga FJ. High Intensity Interval Training in Handcycling: The Effects of a 7 Week Training Intervention in Able-bodied Men. Front Physiol 2016; 7:638. [PMID: 28066268 PMCID: PMC5179555 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2016.00638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: In lower body endurance training, quantities of both moderate intensity continuous training (MICT) and high intensity interval training (HIIT) can lead to an improved physiological capacity and performance. Limited research is available regarding the endurance and muscular capacity of the upper body, and how training contributes to improvements in performance capacity is still unknown. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effects of HIIT and MICT on the physiological capacity and handcycling performance of able-bodied men in a well-controlled laboratory setting. Methods: Twenty four recreationally active men (22 ± 2 years; 1.84 ± 0.04 m; 79 ± 10 kg) were matched on incremental handcycling pre-test performance (peakPO) and then randomly assigned to HIIT, MICT, or a non-training control group (CON, 3 × n = 8). Participants in HIIT completed 14 interval training sessions, performing 4 × 4 min intervals at 85% heart rate reserve (%HRR), and seven continuous training sessions at 55 %HRR (every 2nd training session of the week). Participants in MICT performed 21 training sessions of 30 min at 55 %HRR. After the intervention, changes in peak oxygen uptake (peakVO2) and peak power output (peakPO) were compared within and between HIIT, MICT and CON. Results: The average external training load per training session did not differ between MICT and HIIT (p = 0.713). Improvements after HIIT in peakVO2 (22.2 ± 8.1%) and peakPO (47.1 ± 20.7%) were significantly larger compared with MICT and CON (p < 0.001). Improvements after MICT in peakVO2 (10.7 ± 12.9%) and peakPO (32.2 ± 8.1%) were higher compared to CON (p < 0.001). Higher improvement after HIIT occurred despite training 22% less time than MICT. No significant changes were found in CON. Discussion: As in lower body endurance sports, HIIT proved to be very effective in improving the physiological and performance capacity of upper body exercise. Whilst physiological capacity in both training groups improved significantly compared with CON, the present study shows that peakVO2 and peakPO improved more after HIIT than after MICT in able-bodied men. It is advised to include HIIT into training regimes of recreational and competitive handcyclists to improve the upper body endurance capacity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Schoenmakers
- Centre of Sport and Exercise Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Essex Colchester, UK
| | - Kate Reed
- Centre of Sport and Exercise Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Essex Colchester, UK
| | - Luc Van Der Woude
- Center for Human Movement Sciences and Centre for Rehabilitation, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Florentina J Hettinga
- Centre of Sport and Exercise Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Essex Colchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|