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Gavel EH, Macrae HZ, Goosey-Tolfrey VL, Logan-Sprenger HM. Reliability of anaerobic and aerobic mobility performance tests used in wheelchair rugby, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair tennis: A systematic review. J Sports Sci 2023; 41:1146-1170. [PMID: 37748031 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2023.2259726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the reliability and validity of field-based mobility and performance tests used within the wheelchair sports of basketball (WCB), rugby (WCR) and tennis (WCT) can assist in understanding an athletes' physiological state, training effects, and/or assist with optimising their wheelchair-user interface. PURPOSE To examine, evaluate and synthesize current aerobic and anaerobic field-based mobility and performance tests used in WCB, WCR and WCT. METHODS A systematic search was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Studies were included if they investigated performance tests in WCB, WCR and WCT and reported reliability. RESULTS Twenty-one studies covering 45 mobility/performance tests were included (anaerobic, n = 35; aerobic, n = 10), with agility and repeated sprints (n = 13) being the most common, followed by linear-sprints (n = 11). Repeated sprint ability (n = 2) and submaximal field-tests (n = 2) were the least frequent. Intra-class correlations among all tests ranged from 0.62 to 0.99, with agility and repeated sprints being 0.65-0.98, followed by values of 0.62-0.99 for linear-sprint, 0.96-0.99 for repeated sprints and 0.85-0.97 for submaximal field-tests. CONCLUSION The most frequently measured performance tests were anaerobic tests focusing on agility and repeated sprints. Given the low number of aerobic tests in WCB, WCR and WCT, future research should focus on reliable and valid ways to measure and track performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica H Gavel
- Faculty of Science, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
- Canadian Sport Institute Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Heather Z Macrae
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Vicky L Goosey-Tolfrey
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Heather M Logan-Sprenger
- Faculty of Science, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
- Canadian Sport Institute Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Health Science, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
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Janssen RJF, de Groot S, Van der Woude LHV, Houdijk H, Vegter RJK. Toward a Standardized and Individualized Laboratory-Based Protocol for Wheelchair-Specific Exercise Capacity Testing in Wheelchair Athletes: A Scoping Review. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2023; 102:261-269. [PMID: 34930864 PMCID: PMC9940834 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Previous studies on handrim wheelchair-specific (an)aerobic exercise capacity in wheelchair athletes have used a diversity of participants, equipment, and protocols. Therefore, test results are difficult to compare among studies. The first aim of this scoping review is to provide an overview of the populations studied, the equipment and protocols used, and the reported outcomes from all laboratory-based studies on wheelchair-specific exercise capacity in wheelchair athletes. The second aim is to synthesize these findings into a standardized, yet individualized protocol. A scoping literature search resulted in 10 anaerobic and 38 aerobic protocols. A large variety in equipment, protocol design, and reported outcomes was found. Studies that systematically investigated the influence of protocol features are lacking, which makes it difficult to interpret and compare test outcomes among the heterogeneous group of wheelchair athletes. Protocol design was often dependent on a priori participant knowledge. However, specific guidelines for individualization were missing. However, the common protocol features of the different studies were united into guidelines that could be followed when performing standardized and individualized wheelchair-specific exercise capacity tests in wheelchair athletes. Together with guidelines regarding reporting of participant characteristics, used equipment, and outcome measures, we hope to work toward more international agreement in future testing.
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Antunes D, Borszcz FK, Nascimento EMF, Cavalheiro GP, Fischer G, Brickley G, de Lucas RD. Physiological and Perceptual Responses in Spinal Cord Injury Handcyclists During an Endurance Interval Training: The Role of Critical Speed. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2022; 101:977-982. [PMID: 36104844 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study sought to determine the physiological (oxygen uptake, heart rate, and blood lactate concentration) and perceptual (rating of perceived exertion) responses during an endurance interval training at the critical speed in elite handcyclists with spinal cord injury. DESIGN Eight handcyclists performed an incremental test, three tests to exhaustion at a constant speed to determine critical speed, and the endurance interval training. The endurance interval training consisted of 6 × 5 mins at the individualized critical speed, with passive recovery of 50 secs. All testing was performed using their own handcycles on an oversized motorized treadmill. Physiological and perceptual responses were assessed during the incremental and endurance interval training tests. RESULTS There was no significant difference in average oxygen uptake from the first to the sixth repetition. The mean ∆[La-]10_last between the 10th to the 30th minute of the exercise was -0.36 mmol·l-1, and no difference was detected from the first to the sixth repetition. The heart rate also remained stable during endurance interval training, whereas rating of perceived exertion increased significantly throughout the session. CONCLUSIONS Repetitions of 5 mins at the critical speed in elite handcyclists are associated with cardiorespiratory and lactate steady state, whereas the perceived exertion increased systematically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Antunes
- From the Sports Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Physical Effort Laboratory, Florianopolis, Brazil (DA, FKB, EMFN, GPC, GF, RDdL); and Center for Sport and Exercise Science and Medicine, University of Brighton, Eastbourne, United Kingdom (GB)
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A High-Intensity Warm-Up Increases Thermal Strain But Does Not Affect Repeated Sprint Performance in Athletes With a Cervical Spinal Cord Injury. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2022; 17:440-449. [PMID: 34991077 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2021-0073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the effects of typical competition versus high-intensity intermittent warm-up (WU) on thermoregulatory responses and repeated sprint performance during wheelchair rugby game play. METHODS An intermittent sprint protocol (ISP) simulating the demands of wheelchair rugby was performed by male wheelchair rugby players (7 with cervical spinal cord injury [SCI] and 8 without SCI) following 2 WU protocols. These included a typical competition WU (control) and a WU consisting of high-intensity efforts (INT). Core temperature (Tcore), thermal sensation, and thermal comfort were recorded. Wheelchair performance variables associated to power, speed, and fatigue were also calculated. RESULTS During the WU, Tcore was similar between conditions for both groups. During the ISP, a higher Tcore was found for SCI compared to NON-SCI (38.1 [0.3] vs 37.7 [0.3] °C: P = .036, d = 0.75), and the SCI group experienced a higher peak Tcore for INT compared with control (39.0 [0.4] vs 38.6 [0.6] °C; P = .004). Peak Tcore occurred later in the ISP for players with SCI (96 [5.8] vs 48 [2.7] min; P < .001). All players reported a higher thermal sensation and thermal comfort following INT (P < .001), with no differences between conditions throughout the ISP. No significant differences were found in wheelchair performance variables during the ISP between conditions (P ≥ .143). CONCLUSIONS The high-INT WU increased thermal strain in the SCI group during the ISP, potentially due to increased metabolic heat production and impaired thermoregulation, while not impacting on repeated sprint performance. It may be advisable to limit high-INT bouts during a WU in players with SCI to mitigate issues related to hyperthermia in subsequent performance.
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The ability of heart rate or perceived exertion to predict oxygen uptake varies across exercise modes in persons with tetraplegia. Spinal Cord 2021; 59:1247-1255. [PMID: 34462547 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-021-00670-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Descriptive study. OBJECTIVES To examine grouped and intra-individual relationships between 1) exercise intensity and heart rate (EI-HR); 2) EI and oxygen uptake (EI-VO2); 3) VO2 and HR (VO2-HR); and 4) perceived exertion and VO2 (PE-VO2) in persons with tetraplegia (C4/5-C8) during different modes of exercise. SETTING Community in Winnipeg, Canada. METHODS Participants exercised at 3 graded intensities during arm ergometry (ERG), wheeling indoors on cement (MWC), or hand-cycling outdoors (HC). EI (Watts, km/hr) and VO2, HR and PE were recorded. RESULTS 22 persons completed ERG, 14/22 also completed MWC and 5/22 completed ERG, MWC and HC. Regression analysis of grouped data showed a significant relationship between EI-VO2 but not for EI-HR or HR-VO2. Intra-individual analyses showed a strong correlation (r or ρ > 0.7) for VO2-HR for 16/22 during ERG. In the participants completing multiple exercise modes, a strong VO2-HR relationship was present in 12/14 in ERG, but in only 6/14 in MWC. The 5 persons exercising with all 3 modes had a strong HR-VO2 relationship in 5/5 for ERG, 2/5 in MWC and 1/5 in HC. A strong relationship for PE-VO2 was observed in a higher proportion of participants (versus HR-VO2) during MWC (9/14) and HC (2/4). CONCLUSION Within the same individual, the HR-VO2 relationship varies across modes, despite exercising over similar ranges of steady-state VO2. HR appears less able to predict VO2 compared to PE. Based on these new findings, systematic investigation of the HR-VO2 relationship across modes of exercise in tetraplegia is warranted.
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Criterion Validity of a Field-Based Assessment of Aerobic Capacity in Wheelchair Rugby Athletes. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2021; 16:1341-1346. [PMID: 33652413 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2020-0517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To confirm whether peak aerobic capacity determined during laboratory testing could be replicated during an on-court field-based test in wheelchair rugby players. METHODS Sixteen wheelchair rugby players performed an incremental speed-based peak oxygen uptake (V˙O2peak) test on a motorized treadmill (TM) and completed a multistage fitness test (MFT) on a basketball court in a counterbalanced order, while spirometric data were recorded. A paired t test was performed to check for systematic error between tests. A Bland-Altman plot for V˙O2peak illustrated the agreement between the TM and MFT results and how this related to the boundaries of practical equivalence. RESULTS No significant differences between mean V˙O2peak were reported (TM: 1.85 [0.63] vs MFT: 1.81 [0.63] L·min-1; P = .33). Bland-Altman plot for V˙O2peak suggests that the mean values are in good agreement at the group level; that is, the exact 95% confidence limits for the ratio systematic error (0.95-1.02) are within the boundaries of practical equivalence (0.88-1.13) showing that the group average TM and MFT values are interchangeable. However, consideration of the data at the level of the individual athlete suggests that the TM and MFT results were not interchangeable because the 95% ratio limits of agreement either coincide with the boundaries of practical equivalence (upper limit) or fall outside (lower limit). CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that the MFT provides a suitable test at a group level with this cohort of wheelchair rugby players for the assessment of V˙O2peak (range 0.97-3.64 L·min-1), yet caution is noted for interchangeable use of values between tests for individual players.
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Oliver A, Driller M. The Use of Upper-Body Intermittent Sequential Pneumatic Compression Arm Sleeves on Recovery From Exercise in Wheelchair Athletes. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2021; 100:65-71. [PMID: 32618754 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the current study was to investigate the efficacy of an upper-body intermittent sequential pneumatic compression device on recovery after wheelchair team sport activity. DESIGN Eleven well-trained wheelchair basketball and rugby athletes (male, 8; female, 3; mean ± SD age = 33 ± 10 yrs) performed a series of performance measures pre-exercise, postexercise, and postrecovery (grip strength, pressure-to-pain threshold, medicine ball throw, wheelchair sprints, repeated sprints). Subjective muscle soreness and fatigue measurements were taken at the same time points as performance tests, with an additional 24-hr postrecovery measure. Participants completed two recovery trials, separated by 1 wk, of either passive recovery (control) or 20 mins of wearing recovery arm sleeves (intermittent sequential pneumatic compression) applied to both arms. RESULTS No statistically significant differences were found between trials for any of the performance or perceptual measures (P > 0.05). However, effect size analysis revealed a moderate decrease (d = -0.67) from postexercise to postrecovery for muscle fatigue in favor of intermittent sequential pneumatic compression. A large decrease (d = -0.96) in muscle soreness was also found after exercise to 24 hrs after recovery in favor of intermittent sequential pneumatic compression over control. CONCLUSIONS Intermittent sequential pneumatic compression may provide some benefit for perceptual recovery measures immediately after and 24 hrs after a high-intensity wheelchair activity with negligible effects on performance recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Oliver
- From the Te Huataki Waiora, School of Health, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand (AO, MD); and Sport and Exercise Science, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia (MD)
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Mason BS, van der Slikke RM, Hutchinson MJ, Goosey-Tolfrey VL. Division, result and score margin alter the physical and technical performance of elite wheelchair tennis players. J Sports Sci 2020; 38:937-944. [DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2020.1737361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Barry S. Mason
- Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise & Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, UK
| | - Rienk M.A. van der Slikke
- Faculty of Health, Nutrition & Sports, Hague University of Applied Sciences, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Michael J. Hutchinson
- Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise & Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, UK
| | - Vicky L. Goosey-Tolfrey
- Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise & Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, UK
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Hutchinson MJ, Kilgallon JW, Leicht CA, Goosey-Tolfrey VL. Perceived exertion responses to wheelchair propulsion differ between novice able-bodied and trained wheelchair sportspeople. J Sci Med Sport 2019; 23:403-407. [PMID: 31706827 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2019.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate peripheral (RPEP) and central (RPEC) Ratings of Perceived Exertion during wheelchair propulsion in untrained able-bodied (AB) participants, and trained wheelchair rugby athletes with and without cervical spinal cord injury (CSCI). DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS 38 participants (AB: n=20; wheelchair rugby athletes with CSCI: n=9; without CSCI: n=9) completed an incremental wheelchair propulsion test to exhaustion on a motorised treadmill. Gas exchange measures and heart rate (HR) were collected throughout. RPEP and RPEC on the Category Ratio-10 were verbally recorded each minute. Blood lactate concentration ([BLa]) was determined post-test. RESULTS Between 50-100% peak oxygen uptake (V̇O2peak), RPEP was greater than RPEC in AB (p<0.05), but not in athletes with (p=0.07) or without (p=0.16) CSCI. RPEP was greater in AB compared to players with CSCI (Effect sizes: 1.24-1.62), as were respiratory exchange ratio (1.02±0.10 vs 0.82±0.11, p<0.05) and [BLa]peak (7.98±2.53 vs 4.66±1.57mmol·L-1). RPEC was greater in athletes without CSCI compared to those with CSCI (Effect sizes: 0.70-1.38), as were HR (166±20 vs 104±15 beats·min-1, p<0.05) and ventilation (59.2±28.8 vs 35.1±16.6L·min-1, p=0.01). CONCLUSIONS RPEP was dominant over RPEC during wheelchair propulsion for untrained AB participants. For athletes with CSCI, lower RPEP and RPEC were reported at the same %V̇O2peak compared to those without CSCI. The mechanism for this remains to be fully elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Hutchinson
- The Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences Loughborough University, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan W Kilgallon
- The Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences Loughborough University, United Kingdom
| | - Christof A Leicht
- The Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences Loughborough University, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria L Goosey-Tolfrey
- The Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences Loughborough University, United Kingdom.
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Corrêa BDC, Pereira RDN, Lira AOD, Avila PES, Moreno MA, Normando VMF. Avaliação e classificação da capacidade física aeróbia de atletas de basquetebol em cadeira de rodas. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE CIÊNCIAS DO ESPORTE 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbce.2018.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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Baumgart JK, Brurok B, Sandbakk Ø. Peak oxygen uptake in Paralympic sitting sports: A systematic literature review, meta- and pooled-data analysis. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0192903. [PMID: 29474386 PMCID: PMC5825058 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0192903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) in Paralympic sitting sports athletes represents their maximal ability to deliver energy aerobically in an upper-body mode, with values being influenced by sex, disability-related physiological limitations, sport-specific demands, training status and how they are tested. Objectives To identify VO2peak values in Paralympic sitting sports, examine between-sports differences and within-sports variations in VO2peak and determine the influence of sex, age, body-mass, disability and test-mode on VO2peak. Design Systematic literature review and meta-analysis. Data sources PubMed, CINAHL, SPORTDiscusTM and EMBASE were systematically searched in October 2016 using relevant medical subject headings, keywords and a Boolean. Eligibility criteria Studies that assessed VO2peak values in sitting sports athletes with a disability in a laboratory setting were included. Data synthesis Data was extracted and pooled in the different sports disciplines, weighted by the Dersimonian and Laird random effects approach. Quality of the included studies was assessed with a modified version of the Downs and Black checklist by two independent reviewers. Meta-regression and pooled-data multiple regression analyses were performed to assess the influence of sex, age, body-mass, disability, test mode and study quality on VO2peak. Results Of 6542 retrieved articles, 57 studies reporting VO2peak values in 14 different sitting sports were included in this review. VO2peak values from 771 athletes were used in the data analysis, of which 30% participated in wheelchair basketball, 27% in wheelchair racing, 15% in wheelchair rugby and the remaining 28% in the 11 other disciplines. Fifty-six percent of the athletes had a spinal cord injury and 87% were men. Sports-discipline-averaged VO2peak values ranged from 2.9 L∙min-1 and 45.6 mL∙kg-1∙min-1 in Nordic sit skiing to 1.4 L∙min-1 and 17.3 mL∙kg-1∙min-1 in shooting and 1.3 L∙min-1 and 18.9 mL∙kg-1∙min-1 in wheelchair rugby. Large within-sports variation was found in sports with few included studies and corresponding low sample sizes. The meta-regression and pooled-data multiple regression analyses showed that being a man, having an amputation, not being tetraplegic, testing in a wheelchair ergometer and treadmill mode, were found to be favorable for high absolute and body-mass normalized VO2peak values. Furthermore, high body mass was favourable for high absolute VO2peak values and low body mass for high body-mass normalized VO2peak values. Conclusion The highest VO2peak values were found in Nordic sit skiing, an endurance sport with continuously high physical efforts, and the lowest values in shooting, a sport with low levels of displacement, and in wheelchair rugby where mainly athletes with tetraplegia compete. However, VO2peak values need to be interpreted carefully in sports-disciplines with few included studies and large within-sports variation. Future studies should include detailed information on training status, sex, age, test mode, as well as the type and extent of disability in order to more precisely evaluate the effect of these factors on VO2peak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Kathrin Baumgart
- Centre for Elite Sports Research, Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- * E-mail:
| | - Berit Brurok
- Centre for Elite Sports Research, Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, St. Olav’s University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Øyvind Sandbakk
- Centre for Elite Sports Research, Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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Molik B, Kosmol A, Morgulec-Adamowicz N, Lencse-Mucha J, Mróz A, Gryko K, Marszałek J. Comparison of Aerobic Performance Testing Protocols in Elite Male Wheelchair Basketball Players. J Hum Kinet 2017; 60:243-254. [PMID: 29340005 PMCID: PMC5765805 DOI: 10.1515/hukin-2017-0140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In wheelchair sports, aerobic performance is commonly assessed with the use of an arm crank ergometer (ACE), a wheelchair ergometer (WCE) or a wheelchair treadmill (WCT). There are different protocols to identify peak oxygen uptake in wheelchair sports; however, only a few protocols have been applied to evaluate these conditions in wheelchair basketball players. The purpose of this study was to compare physiological responses during maximal exercise testing with the use of ACE and WCT in wheelchair basketball players. Twelve elite male wheelchair basketball players participated in this study. The research was performed during a training camp of the Polish National Wheelchair Basketball Team. The study participants were divided into two functional categories: A (players with class 1.0 - 2.5) and B (players with class 3.0 - 4.5). Two main maximal exercise tests, i.e. wheelchair treadmill stress test (WCT test) and arm crank ergometer stress test (ACE test) were used to evaluate aerobic performance of the players. There were no statistically significant differences in aerobic tests between the players from both groups. The comparison of results achieved in two aerobic tests performed on WCT and ACE did not reveal any significant differences between the analyzed variables (peak heart rate (HRpeak), peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), minute ventilation (VE), anaerobic threshold (AT), lactate concentration (LApeak), and a drop in lactate concentration (%LA)). Strong correlations between results achieved in WCT and ACE tests were found for VO2peak, VE and LApeak. The main conclusion of the study is that both WCT and ACE tests may be useful when determining aerobic capacity of wheelchair basketball players. Moreover, both protocols can be used by athletes regardless of their functional capabilities and types of impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bartosz Molik
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Kosmol
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Judit Lencse-Mucha
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Mróz
- Faculty of Physical Education, Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karol Gryko
- Faculty of Physical Education, Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jolanta Marszałek
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Kim JH, Trilk JL, Smith R, Asif I, Maddux PT, Ko YA, Emery MS. Cardiac Structure and Function in Elite Para-cyclists with Spinal Cord Injury. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2017; 48:1431-7. [PMID: 27433957 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000000921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We sought to explore the association between the spinal cord injury (SCI) level on the cardiac structure and the function observed in elite para-cyclists. METHODS Cross-sectional echocardiographic data from 44 elite SCI hand cyclists (39.8 ± 9 yr, 68% male/32% female) stratified by the level of SCI (cervical, N = 9; T1-T5, N = 10; below T5, N = 25) and 19 non-SCI blind/visually impaired (BVI) tandem cyclists (32.4 ± 7 yr, 58% male/42% female) were analyzed before the initiation of international competition. RESULTS Compared with non-SCI BVI cyclists, cervical SCI para-cyclists were observed with lower indexed left ventricular (LV) mass (99.6 ± 12 vs 125 ± 20 g·m, P = 0.01), posterior wall thickness (4.5 ± 0.3 vs 5.8 ± 0.7 mm·m, P < 0.001), interventricular septal wall thickness (4.8 ± 0.5 vs 5.7 ± 0.7 mm·m; P = 0.03), and left atrial volume (21 ± 3.5 vs 28 ± 7 mL·m; P = 0.02). In multivariable analyses, cervical SCI was independently associated with decreased LV wall thickness [interventricular septum (β = -0.67, P = 0.01), posterior wall (β = -0.98, P = 0.001)], decreased LV mass (β = -21, P < 0.001), and decreased left atrial volume index (β = -6.9, P = 0.001) compared with other levels of SCI and non-SCI BVI cyclists. There were no differences in ventricular function among any of the athlete groups. CONCLUSION Compared with para-cyclists with lower levels of SCI, the athletes with cervical SCI demonstrate attenuated cardiac size and concentric LV hypertrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan H Kim
- 1Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA; 2University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, SC; 3Department of Medicine, Greenville Health System, Greenville, SC; and 4Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
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van der Scheer JW, Hutchinson MJ, Paulson T, Martin Ginis KA, Goosey-Tolfrey VL. Reliability and Validity of Subjective Measures of Aerobic Intensity in Adults With Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review. PM R 2017; 10:194-207. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2017.08.440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Revised: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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AU JASONS, TOTOSY DE ZEPETNEK JULIAO, MACDONALD MAUREENJ. Modeling Perceived Exertion during Graded Arm Cycling Exercise in Spinal Cord Injury. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2017; 49:1190-1196. [DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000001203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Cruz S, Blauwet CA. Implications of altered autonomic control on sports performance in athletes with spinal cord injury. Auton Neurosci 2017; 209:100-104. [PMID: 28457670 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2017.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 03/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that athletes with spinal cord injury (SCI) may experience altered autonomic physiology that impacts their exercise capacity and sports performance. This is particularly relevant given the ever-increasing number of individuals with SCI who are actively engaged in sports at all levels, from community-based adaptive sports to elite Paralympic competitions. As such, the purpose of this article is to review the present literature regarding the implications of altered autonomic control on the safety and performance of athletes with SCI. A particular emphasis will be placed on the autonomic aspects of cardiovascular and thermoregulatory control in the athlete population, as well as the implications of autonomic dysreflexia in enhancing sports performance. Further research is needed to understand the autonomic factors that influence athletes with SCI in order to ensure optimal and safe sports competition. Additionally, this information is crucially relevant to the coaches, sports administrators, and team medical staff who work closely with athletes with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Cruz
- University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Cheri A Blauwet
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital/Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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17
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Exercise Intensity During Power Wheelchair Soccer. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2016; 97:1938-1944. [PMID: 27288710 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2016.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2016] [Revised: 04/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine exercise intensity during power wheelchair soccer among a sample of persons with mobility impairments. DESIGN Cross-sectional descriptive. SETTING On-site training facilities of multiple power wheelchair soccer teams. PARTICIPANTS Participants with severe mobility impairments (N=30) (mean ± SD, age: 29.40±15.51y, body mass index: 24.11±6.47kg/m2, power soccer experience: 7.91±3.93y, disability sport experience: 12.44±9.73y) were recruited from multiple power wheelchair soccer teams. INTERVENTIONS Portable metabolic carts were used to collect oxygen consumption (V˙o2) data during resting and game play conditions. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Average V˙o2 (expressed in metabolic equivalent tasks [METs]) during resting and game play conditions and rating of perceived exertion for game play. RESULTS V˙o2 increased from 1.35±0.47 METs at rest to 1.81±0.65 METs during game play. This 34% increase in exercise intensity was significant (P<.01) and supported by a mean perceived exertion score of approximately 13 (somewhat hard). CONCLUSIONS Although not able to sustain an intensity associated with reduced secondary disease risk (ie, 3 METs), the documented light-intensity exercise in the current study surpassed an intensity threshold associated with improved functional capacity and performance of daily living activities (ie, 1.5 METs).
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Pereira RN, Abreu MFR, Gonçalves CB, Corrêa WFS, Mizuhira DR, Moreno MA. Respiratory muscle strength and aerobic performance of wheelchair basketball players. MOTRIZ: REVISTA DE EDUCACAO FISICA 2016. [DOI: 10.1590/s1980-6574201600030002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Grams L, Garrido G, Villacieros J, Ferro A. Marginal Micronutrient Intake in High-Performance Male Wheelchair Basketball Players: A Dietary Evaluation and the Effects of Nutritional Advice. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0157931. [PMID: 27383836 PMCID: PMC4934691 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0157931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Wheelchair basketball has evolved into a high-performance sport over several years, and small variations in player performance can determine the difference between winning and losing. Therefore, adequate micronutrient intake may influence this difference if performance-promoting macronutrient intake and physical fitness are equal between teams. Seventeen elite male wheelchair basketball players belonging to the Spanish National Team participated in this study. Macro- and micronutrient intake were determined using a food-weighing diary over three consecutive days during three training camps in two consecutive years. Current Dietary Reference Intake levels were used to determine the adequacy of intake of seventeen micronutrients of particular interest for athletes. After categorizing the consumed foods into fourteen food groups according to the National Nutrient Database for Standard References (USDA) these groups were used to identify the best predictors of the adequacy of intake for each micronutrient. Total energy intake correlated positively with the adequacy of all micronutrient intake levels, except for vitamins A and E. Five B vitamins and phosphorus, selenium, and iron showed 100% adequacy. All other micronutrient intake levels were found to be inadequate, e.g., vitamin E (51% adequacy) and calcium (73%). The fruit, fish and cereal food groups were found to be predictors of adequate intake of most micronutrients. Together with energy intake (p = .009, η2 = 0.49), the intake of the fruit (p = .032, η2 = 0.39) and egg (p = .036, Kendall's W = 0.42) food groups increased significantly over time, along with improved iodine (p = .008, W = 0.61) and magnesium (p = .030, W = 0.44) adequacy levels. Because the adequacy of micronutrient intake correlates positively with energy intake (R = 0.64, p < .001), a varied diet that includes cereals, fish and fruits is especially important for players with low levels of energy intake. Supplements may be a possible solution if adequate micronutrient intake cannot be achieved through regular dietary intake alone. However, dietary analyses should be conducted on a regular basis throughout the year to improve the nutritional knowledge of the athletes and assure adequate micronutrient intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Grams
- Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, Technical University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Guadalupe Garrido
- Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, Technical University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Villacieros
- Department of Sports, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, Technical University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Amelia Ferro
- Department of Sports, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, Technical University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Saltan A, Bakar Y, Ankarali H. Wheeled mobility skills of wheelchair basketball players: a randomized controlled study. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2016; 12:390-395. [PMID: 27291563 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2016.1177857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to assess the influence of wheelchair basketball sport on the functional abilities of wheelchair users. METHOD This is a randomized controlled study. Wheelchair basketball players (n = 111) and non-player (n = 85) were included in this study. We administered the questionnaire version of the wheelchair skills test questionnaire (WST_Q), recording the participants' capacity and performance scores on each of 32 skills. RESULTS Player group have the baseline values of WST_Q higher than control group. The mean total percentage score of player group was significantly greater than control group (p < 0.05). The get over 15 cm level (respectively, rations of capacity and performance of groups: player/control: 50.5-20% and 54.1-24.7%) and the ascends 10° incline (player/control 96.4-48.2% and 98.2-54.1%). CONCLUSIONS Participation in regular wheelchair basketball sport may preserve and augment functional abilities in with wheelchair user Implications for rehabilitation The skills-sports relationship is reciprocal. With increased wheelchair skills, people may be more inclined to engage in sports; subsequently, with greater sports, wheelchair skills could improve. Wheelchair mobility skills during clinical rehabilitation should reflect the daily activities and needs of each wheelchair user. WST-Q provides advantages in terms of requiring less time and material in using of clinical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asuman Saltan
- a Termal Vocational School, University of Yalova , Yalova , Turkey
| | - Yeşim Bakar
- b University of Abant Izzet Baysal, University of Bolu , Bolu , Turkey
| | - Handan Ankarali
- c Department of Medical Informatics , School of Medicine and Biostatistics, Duzce University , Duzce , Turkey
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Currie KD, West CR, Hubli M, Gee CM, Krassioukov AV. Peak heart rates and sympathetic function in tetraplegic nonathletes and athletes. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2016; 47:1259-64. [PMID: 25211366 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000000514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine differences in peak heart rate (HR) and measures of sympathetic function between nonathletes and athletes with chronic, motor-complete, cervical spinal cord injury (SCI). METHODS Eight nonathletic men with SCI (C4-C7; age 47 ± 9 yr, with injury duration of 16 ± 9 yr) and 13 athletic men with SCI (C5-C8; age 37 ± 8 yr, with injury duration of 16 ± 6 yr) participated in the study. Measures of sympathetic function included palmar sympathetic skin responses (SSR) to median nerve stimulation, and systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure responses to a passive sit-up test. Peak HR responses were assessed during a maximal exercise test. RESULTS Compared to the athletic group, the nonathletic group exhibited lower peak HR (102 ± 34 vs 161 ± 20 bpm, P < 0.001) and average SSR scores (0.13 ± 0.35 vs 2.41 ± 1.97, P = 0.008), along with greater reductions in SBP and DBP in response to passive sit-up (SBP: -22 ± 10 vs -9 ± 12 mm Hg, P = 0.019; DBP: -18 ± 8 mm Hg vs -4 ± 9 mm Hg, P = 0.003). On the basis of the criteria for orthostatic hypotension (OH) (drop in SBP ≥ 20 mm Hg or DBP ≥ 10 mm Hg), 88% and 23% of nonathletes and athletes had OH. CONCLUSIONS Attenuated peak HR in nonathletic individuals with tetraplegia may be secondary to impairments in sympathetic function including absent SSR and OH. Furthermore, the degree of preserved sympathetic function documented in tetraplegic athletes may suggest a predisposition to engage in high-performance sports. Collectively, our findings provide novel insight into the importance of the sympathetic nervous system for exercise performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine D Currie
- 1International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, CANADA; 2Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, CANADA; 3G. F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, CANADA
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Paulson TAW, Mason B, Rhodes J, Goosey-Tolfrey VL. Individualized Internal and External Training Load Relationships in Elite Wheelchair Rugby Players. Front Physiol 2015; 6:388. [PMID: 26733881 PMCID: PMC4685065 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2015.00388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: The quantification and longitudinal monitoring of athlete training load (TL) provides a scientific explanation for changes in performance and helps manage injury/illness risk. Therefore, accurate and reliable monitoring tools are essential for the optimization of athletic performance. The aim of the present study was to establish the relationship between measures of internal [heart rate (HR) and session RPE (sRPE)] and external TL specific to wheelchair rugby (WR). Methods: Fourteen international WR athletes (age = 29 ± 7 years; body mass = 58.9 ± 10.9 kg) were monitored during 18 training sessions over a 3 month period during the competitive phase of the season. Activity profiles were collected during each training session using a radio-frequency based indoor tracking system (ITS). External TL was quantified by total distance (m) covered as well as time spent and distance covered in a range of classification-specific arbitrary speed zones. Banister's TRIMP, Edwards's summated HR zone (SHRZ), and Lucia's TRIMP methods were used to quantify physiological internal TL. sRPE was calculated as the product of session duration multiplied by perceived exertion using the Borg CR10 scale. Relationships between external and internal TL were examined using correlation coefficients and the 90% confidence intervals (90% CI). Results: sRPE (r = 0.59) and all HR-based (r > 0.80) methods showed large and very large relationships with the total distance covered during training sessions, respectively. Large and very large correlations (r = 0.56 − 0.82) were also observed between all measures of internal TL and times spent and distances covered in low and moderate intensity speed zones. HR-based methods showed very large relationships with time (r = 0.71−0.75) and distance (r = 0.70−0.73) in the very high speed zone and a large relationship with the number of high intensity activities (HIA) performed (r = 0.56−0.62). Weaker relationships (r = 0.32−0.35) were observed between sRPE and all measures of high intensity activity. A large variation of individual correlation co-efficient was observed between sRPE and all external TL measures. Conclusion: The current findings suggest that sRPE and HR-based internal TL measures provide a valid tool for quantifying volume of external TL during WR training but may underestimate HIA. It is recommended that both internal and external TL measures are employed for the monitoring of overall TL during court-based training in elite WR athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A W Paulson
- The Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University Loughborough, UK
| | - Barry Mason
- The Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University Loughborough, UK
| | - James Rhodes
- The Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University Loughborough, UK
| | - Victoria L Goosey-Tolfrey
- The Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University Loughborough, UK
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Zeller S, Abel T, Rojas-Vega S, Foitschik T, Strueder HK. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor concentrations in tetraplegic athletes. Spinal Cord 2015; 53:791-4. [DOI: 10.1038/sc.2015.94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2014] [Revised: 04/24/2015] [Accepted: 05/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Blood lactate and ventilatory thresholds in wheelchair athletes with tetraplegia and paraplegia. Eur J Appl Physiol 2014; 114:1635-43. [DOI: 10.1007/s00421-014-2886-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2013] [Accepted: 04/02/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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25
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Prediction of peak oxygen uptake from differentiated ratings of perceived exertion during wheelchair propulsion in trained wheelchair sportspersons. Eur J Appl Physiol 2014; 114:1251-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s00421-014-2850-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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PAULSON THOMASA, GOOSEY-TOLFREY VICTORIAL, LENTON JOHNP, LEICHT CHRISTOFA, BISHOP NICOLETTEC. Spinal Cord Injury Level and the Circulating Cytokine Response to Strenuous Exercise. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2013; 45:1649-55. [DOI: 10.1249/mss.0b013e31828f9bbb] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Abstract
The volume of literature on field-based physiological testing of wheelchair sports, such as basketball, rugby and tennis, is considerably smaller when compared with that available for individuals and team athletes in able-bodied (AB) sports. In analogy to the AB literature, it is recognized that performance in wheelchair sports not only relies on fitness, but also sport-specific skills, experience and technical proficiency. However, in contrast to AB sports, two major components contribute towards 'wheeled sports' performance, which are the athlete and the wheelchair. It is the interaction of these two that enable wheelchair propulsion and the sporting movements required within a given sport. Like any other athlete, participants of wheelchair sports are looking for efficient ways to train and/or analyse their technique and fitness to improve their performance. Consequently, laboratory and/or field-based physiological monitoring tools used at regular intervals at key time points throughout the year must be considered to help with training evaluation. The present review examines methods available in the literature to assess wheelchair sports fitness in a field-based environment, with special attention on outcome variables, validity and reliability issues, and non-physiological influences on performance. It also lays out the context of field-based testing by providing details about the Paralympic court sports and the impacts of a disability on sporting performance. Due to the limited availability of specialized equipment for testing wheelchair-dependent participants in the laboratory, the adoption of field-based testing has become the preferred option by team coaches of wheelchair athletes. An obvious advantage of field-based testing is that large groups of athletes can be tested in less time. Furthermore, athletes are tested in their natural environment (using their normal sports wheelchair set-up and floor surface), potentially making the results of such testing more relevant than laboratory testing. However, given that many tests, such as the multistage fitness test and the Yo-Yo intermittent test, have originally been developed for AB games players, the assumption that these can also be used for wheelchair athletes may be erroneous. With the array of AB aerobic and anaerobic field tests available, it is difficult to ascertain which ones may be best suited for wheelchair athletes. Therefore, new, wheelchair sport-specific tests have been proposed and validated. Careful selection of tests to enable coaches to distinguish between disability classifications, wheelchair proficiency and actual performance improvements is paramount as this will not only enhance the value of field-based testing, but also help with the development of meaningful normative data.
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Leicht CA, Tolfrey K, Lenton JP, Bishop NC, Goosey-Tolfrey VL. The verification phase and reliability of physiological parameters in peak testing of elite wheelchair athletes. Eur J Appl Physiol 2012; 113:337-45. [DOI: 10.1007/s00421-012-2441-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2012] [Accepted: 06/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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