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Dean NA, Bundon A, Howe PD, Abele N. "It Looks Good on Paper, But It Was Never Meant to Be Real": Mixed-Gender Events in the Paralympic Movement. Adapt Phys Activ Q 2024; 41:205-228. [PMID: 37890836 DOI: 10.1123/apaq.2022-0195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the Paralympic Games have been around for over 60 years, women remain underrepresented in almost all aspects of the Paralympic Movement. It has been suggested that a way to increase women's involvement is through the implementation of mixed-gender events. On paper, this approach makes sense. However, when it comes to the implementation of mixed-gender opportunities for women, it is less clear how effective these events are in increasing participation by women in Para sport. Through document analysis and interviews with athletes and organizers of mixed-gender Paralympic sport, we explore the various strategies that four mixed-gender sports have used to address the issue of gender parity. Using critical feminist theories, we illustrate how larger social, political, and cultural ideas about gender influence women's experiences within these events and discuss the potential of using mixed-gender initiatives to address gender parity within the Paralympic Movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaus A Dean
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andrea Bundon
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - P David Howe
- School of Kinesiology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Natalie Abele
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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2
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Dehghansai N, Mazhar A, Baker J. Coach and Athlete Perspectives on Talent Transfer in Paralympic Sport. Adapt Phys Activ Q 2023; 40:280-302. [PMID: 36657465 DOI: 10.1123/apaq.2022-0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Research pertaining to the experiences and motives of Paralympic athletes who transfer between sports is scant. This study aimed to address this gap through semistructured interviews with Canadian Paralympic coaches (n = 35) and athletes (n = 12). Three higher-order themes of "alternative to retirement," "career extension," and "compatibility" were identified. The subthemes of "psychobehavioral" and "physical and physiological" (from the higher-order theme of alternative to retirement) captured reasons leading to transfer, which are similar to reasons athletes may consider retirement. The subthemes of career extension-"better opportunities" and "beneficial outcomes"-shed light on factors that contributed to the withdrawal of negative experiences and reinforcement of positive outcomes associated with transferring sports. Last, compatibility had three subthemes of "resources," "sport-specific," and "communication," which encapsulated factors athletes should consider prior to their transfer. In conclusion, the participants highlighted the importance of transparent and effective communication between athletes and sports to align and establish realistic expectations for everyone involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Dehghansai
- Innovation and Performance, Paralympics Australia, Adelaide, SA,Australia
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON,Canada
| | - Alia Mazhar
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON,Canada
| | - Joseph Baker
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON,Canada
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3
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de Oliveira FCL, Williamson S, Ardern CL, Fagher K, Heron N, Janse van Rensburg DCC, Jansen MGT, Kolman N, O'Connor SR, Saueressig T, Schoonmade L, Thornton JS, Webborn N, Pluim BM. Association between the level of partial foot amputation and gait: a scoping review with implications for the minimum impairment criteria for wheelchair tennis. Br J Sports Med 2022; 57:bjsports-2022-105650. [PMID: 36588404 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2022-105650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This scoping review examines how different levels and types of partial foot amputation affect gait and explores how these findings may affect the minimal impairment criteria for wheelchair tennis. METHODS Four databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL and SPORTDiscus) were systematically searched in February 2021 for terms related to partial foot amputation and ambulation. The search was updated in February 2022. All study designs investigating gait-related outcomes in individuals with partial foot amputation were included and independently screened by two reviewers based on Arksey and O'Malley's methodological framework and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews. RESULTS Twenty-nine publications with data from 252 participants with partial foot amputation in 25 studies were analysed. Toe amputations were associated with minor gait abnormalities, and great toe amputations caused loss of push-off in a forward and lateral direction. Metatarsophalangeal amputations were associated with loss of stability and decreased gait speed. Ray amputations were associated with decreased gait speed and reduced lower extremity range of motion. Transmetatarsal amputations and more proximal amputations were associated with abnormal gait, substantial loss of power generation across the ankle and impaired mobility. CONCLUSIONS Partial foot amputation was associated with various gait changes, depending on the type of amputation. Different levels and types of foot amputation are likely to affect tennis performance. We recommend including first ray, transmetatarsal, Chopart and Lisfranc amputations in the minimum impairment criteria, excluding toe amputations (digits two to five), and we are unsure whether to include or exclude great toe, ray (two to five) and metatarsophalangeal amputations. TRIAL REGISTRATION The protocol of this scoping review was previously registered at the Open Science Framework Registry (https://osf.io/8gh9y) and published.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fábio Carlos Lucas de Oliveira
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
- Research Unit in Sport and Physical Activity (CIDAF), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Clare L Ardern
- Department of Family Practice, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kristina Fagher
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Neil Heron
- Center for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- School of Medicine, Keele University, Staffordshire, UK
| | | | - Marleen G T Jansen
- Toptennis Department, Royal Netherlands Lawn Tennis Association (KNLTB), Amstelveen, The Netherlands
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Nikki Kolman
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Knowledge Centre for Sport & Physical Activity, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Linda Schoonmade
- Medical Library, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jane S Thornton
- Department of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nick Webborn
- IPC Medical Committee, Bonn, Germany
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Babette M Pluim
- Section Sports Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Amsterdam Collaboration on Health & Safety in Sports (ACHSS), AMC/VUmc IOC Research Center of Excellence, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Medical Department, Royal Netherlands Lawn Tennis Association (KNLTB), Amstelveen, The Netherlands
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4
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Fleeton JRM, Sanders RH, Fornusek C. Impact of maximal strength training on countermovement jump phase characteristics in athletes with cerebral palsy. J Sports Sci 2022; 40:2118-2127. [PMID: 36273245 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2022.2137303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Analysis of the countermovement jump (CMJ) force-time curve phases provides insight into athlete neuromuscular function and methods by which jump height improves in response to training. A CMJ phase analysis and the dynamic strength index (DSI) have yet to be explored in athletes with cerebral palsy (CP). This study aimed to address this knowledge gap. Eleven state- to international-level athletes with CP completed a pre-post maximal strength training intervention with waitlist control. CMJ was assessed via force plate pre/post baseline and after the 12-week intervention. Following the intervention, CMJ height, takeoff velocity, and concentric phase peak and mean force, impulse and mean acceleration improved significantly (p = 0.006-0.001). No changes were observed in any eccentric braking phase variable (p = 0.79-0.13), while DSI lowered (p = 0.03). In athletes with CP, strength training increased CMJ concentric phase peak and mean force and impulse, increasing velocity and acceleration and therefore jump height. DSI lowered due to moderate and small increases in isometric mid-thigh pull and CMJ peak force, respectively. Unlike in non-disabled athletes, strength training did not alter any eccentric phase variable; therefore, other modalities may be required to further optimize jumping performance in athletes with CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R M Fleeton
- The University of Sydney School of Health Sciences, Discipline of Exercise and Sport Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Ross H Sanders
- The University of Sydney School of Health Sciences, Discipline of Exercise and Sport Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Ché Fornusek
- The University of Sydney School of Health Sciences, Discipline of Exercise and Sport Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
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5
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Dehghansai N, Pinder RA, Baker J. Pathways in Paralympic Sport: An In-Depth Analysis of Athletes' Developmental Trajectories and Training Histories. Adapt Phys Activ Q 2022; 39:37-85. [PMID: 34758457 DOI: 10.1123/apaq.2021-0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This three-part investigation conducted a comprehensive analysis of 213 Australian and Canadian athletes' developmental trajectories, training histories, and experiences in organized sports from 18 Paralympic sports (PS). While athletes with early-onset impairments (i.e., congenital, preadolescent) reached milestones and commenced various types of training at a significantly younger age than athletes with later-onset impairments (i.e., early adulthood, adulthood), the latter groups progressed through their careers and incorporated various trainings at a faster pace (i.e., fewer years). Preferences to certain training conditions varied between groups. Eighty-two percent of the athletes with acquired impairments had experience in able-bodied sports before the onset of their impairment, with 70% noting involvement in sports similar to their current PS. The participation rates (38%) and sport similarity (53%) were lower in PS. The amalgamation of findings from this series of studies highlights the complexity associated with PS athletes' development and demonstrates the importance of taking an individualized approach.
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6
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Dehghansai N, Allan V, Pinder RA, Baker J. Examining the Influence of Impairment Type on the Development of Paralympic Sport Athletes. Adapt Phys Activ Q 2022; 39:129-38. [PMID: 34728588 DOI: 10.1123/apaq.2021-0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Research has recently examined the role of impairment onset on athlete development in Paralympic sport; however, less is known on how impairment type can impact athlete sporting pathways. In this study, 187 Australian and Canadian Paralympic sport athletes completed a survey. Participants were divided into the following four groups: impaired muscle power (n = 79); ataxia, athetosis, and hypertonia (n = 44); limb deficiencies (n = 42); and other physical impairments (n = 22). Mechanisms of initiation into Paralympic sport varied between groups with some drawn to sport through friends and/or family (i.e., limb deficiencies and other physical impairments groups) while others through talent search programs (i.e., ataxia, athetosis, and hypertonia group) or health care professionals/rehabilitation centers (i.e., impaired muscle power group). Results revealed no significant differences between groups in the chronological age or absolute years for achieving milestones. However, considering the high variability within the sample, more research is necessary to better understand how athletes with different physical impairments navigate through their sporting careers.
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7
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Fagher K, Badenhorst M, Van de Vliet P. Sports physiotherapy - Actions to optimize the health of Para athletes. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2021; 16:1376-1378. [PMID: 34909244 PMCID: PMC8637264 DOI: 10.26603/001c.29910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- K Fagher
- Department of Health Sciences, Rehabilitation Medicine Research Group, Lund University; The Medical Committee, The Swedish Paralympic Committee
| | - M Badenhorst
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ), Auckland University of Technology; Institute of Sport and Exercise Medicine (ISEM), Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University; International Olympic Committee (IOC) Research Centres
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8
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Hogarth L, Oh YT, Osborough C, Osborough C, Formosa D, Hunter A, Alcock A, Burkett B, Payton C. Passive drag in Para swimmers with physical impairments: Implications for evidence-based classification in Para swimming. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2021; 31:1932-1940. [PMID: 34189782 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The inherent hydrodynamic resistance force, or passive drag, of a swimmer directly influences how they move through the water. For swimmers with physical impairments, the strength of association between passive drag and swimming performance is unknown. Knowledge on this factor could improve the World Para Swimming classification process. This study established the relationship between passive drag and 100 m freestyle race performance in Para swimmers with physical impairments. Using a cross-sectional study design, an electrical-mechanical towing device was used to measure passive drag force in 132 international-level Para swimmers. There was a strong, negative correlation between normalized passive drag force and 100 m freestyle race speed in the combined participant cohort (ρ = -0.77, p < 0.001). Type of physical impairment was found to affect the relationship between passive drag and 100 m freestyle race speed when included in linear regression (R2 = 0.65, χ2 = 11.5, p = 0.025). These findings contribute to the body of evidence that passive drag can provide an objective assessment of activity limitation in Para swimmers with physical impairments. The effect of physical impairment type on the relationship between passive drag and swimming performance should be accounted for in Para swimming classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Hogarth
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Qld, Australia
| | - Yim-Taek Oh
- Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Casey Osborough
- Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Conor Osborough
- Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Danielle Formosa
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Qld, Australia
| | - Adam Hunter
- Australian Institute of Sport, Bruce, ACT, Australia
| | | | - Brendan Burkett
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Qld, Australia.,High Performance Sport, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Qld, Australia
| | - Carl Payton
- Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
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McLean S, Read GJ, Ramsay K, Hogarth L, Kean B. Designing success: Applying Cognitive Work Analysis to optimise a para sport system. Appl Ergon 2021; 93:103369. [PMID: 33493871 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Within the last decade, Para sport has experienced increased growth, global popularity, and scientific research. Likewise, there is increasing application of systems ergonomics methods to optimise sports performance. Despite this, few studies have attempted to analyse Para sport as a complex system. The aim of this study was to apply a systems ergonomics framework to redesign a current Para sport system via a multi staged approach. The Cognitive Work Analysis framework was used to model and redesign the Para sport system, via the insertion of design interventions. The findings offer insights into the complexity of the Para sport system via the multiple interacting factors that influence the performance of the system. In addition, the design interventions had substantial influence on the Para sport system by creating multiple new processes, functions, measures, and purposes, and enhanced multiple components of the existing system. This study provides a unique contribution to ergonomic science and extends system ergonomics theory and methods in sport. This study has practical implications for policy development by providing a template that can be used by others wanting to optimise able-bodied sport, Para sport, and non-sport systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott McLean
- Centre for Human Factors and Sociotechnical Systems, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia.
| | - Gemma Jm Read
- Centre for Human Factors and Sociotechnical Systems, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia.
| | - Karis Ramsay
- School of Health and Sport Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia.
| | - Luke Hogarth
- School of Health and Sport Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia.
| | - Bridie Kean
- School of Health and Sport Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia.
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10
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Hogarth L, Nicholson V, Payton C, Burkett B. Modelling the age-related trajectory of performance in Para swimmers with physical, vision and intellectual impairment. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2020; 31:925-935. [PMID: 33345411 DOI: 10.1111/sms.13910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study is the first to provide information on the age-related trajectories of performance in Para swimmers with physical, vision and intellectual impairment. Race times from long-course swim meets between 2009 and 2019 were obtained for Para swimmers with an eligible impairment. A subset of 10 661 times from 411 Para swimmers were included in linear mixed effects modelling to establish the relationship between age and performance expressed relative to personal best time and world record time. The main findings were: (a) age has the most noticeable influence on performance between the ages of 12-20 years before performances stabilize and peak in the early to late twenties, (b) women have faster times relative to personal best and world record time than men during early adolescence and their performances stabilize, peak and decline at younger ages, and (c) Para swimmers from different sport classes show varying age-related trajectories in performance after maturation and when training-related factors are more likely to explain competitive swim performance. The results of this study can guide talent identification and development of Para swimmers at various stages of their career and help to inform decision-making on the allocation of sport class and sport class status in Para swimming classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Hogarth
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
| | - Vaughan Nicholson
- School of Allied Health, Australian Catholic University, Virginia, QLD, Australia
| | - Carl Payton
- Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Brendan Burkett
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia.,High Performance Sport, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
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Dehghansai N, Lemez S, Wattie N, Pinder RA, Baker J. Understanding the Development of Elite Parasport Athletes Using a Constraint-Led Approach: Considerations for Coaches and Practitioners. Front Psychol 2020; 11:502981. [PMID: 33101110 PMCID: PMC7554586 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.502981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
For the past half-century, the Paralympic Games has continued to grow, evident through increased participation, media recognition, and rising research focus in Para sport. While the competitive pool of athletes has increased, athlete development models have stayed relatively the same. Currently, coaches rely mainly on experiential knowledge, informal communication with colleagues, and theory transferred from able-bodied contexts as main resources to support development for themselves and their athletes. The purpose of this paper was to introduce Newell’s constraint-led model and its multidimensional spectrum and practical scope to address the complexities of athlete development. The model consists of three overarching constraint categories (i.e., individual, task, and environment) along with proposed additional sub-categories to capture nuances associated in Para sport in order to provide additional context to coaches regarding athlete development. Utilizing this theoretical framework, we present a holistic approach for coaches and practitioners to consider while addressing athletes’ short- and long-term developmental plans. This approach highlights the interactions among factors from a wide range of categories that indirectly and directly impact one another and ultimately influence athletes’ developmental processes. It is important to consider the dynamic interaction of constraints over various timescales during development and identify underlying issues to improve athlete experience and maximize developmental opportunities. Coaches and practitioners can use the proposed framework as a guide to key factors to consider for their cohort of athletes. This approach provides a context-specific approach that considers unique factors associated with athletes and their environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Dehghansai
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Srdjan Lemez
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, Pomona, CA, United States
| | - Nick Wattie
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ross A Pinder
- Paralympic Innovation, Paralympics Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Joe Baker
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Dehghansai N, Spedale D, Wilson MJ, Baker J. Comparing Developmental Trajectories of Elite Able-Bodied and Wheelchair Basketball Players. Adapt Phys Activ Q 2020; 37:338-48. [PMID: 32559739 DOI: 10.1123/apaq.2019-0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the factors influencing Paralympic athletes' journey to expertise and whether these athletes have trajectories similar to those of their able-bodied (AB) peers. The purpose of this project was to compare the developmental trajectories of wheelchair and AB basketball players. A total of 150 participants completed the Developmental History of Athletes Questionnaire. Results revealed that while AB athletes reached early career milestones at a significantly younger age, athletes with congenital impairments reached midcareer milestones at similar ages to AB athletes. In addition, athletes with acquired impairments were able to reach key late-career performance milestones (i.e., national and international debuts) at a similar age to the other two groups. The findings from this study suggest complex developmental pathways that may not be reflected in current developmental models. Therefore, the authors suggest that scientists and practitioners be cognizant of context-specific needs when providing training recommendations.
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Fiorese BA, Beckman EM, Connick MJ, Hunter AB, Tweedy SM. Biomechanics of starting, sprinting and submaximal running in athletes with brain impairment: A systematic review. J Sci Med Sport 2020; 23:1118-27. [PMID: 32507448 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2020.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Para athletes with brain impairment are affected by hypertonia, ataxia and athetosis, which adversely affect starting, sprinting and submaximal running. The aim was to identify and synthesise evidence from studies that have compared the biomechanics of runners with brain impairments (RBI) and non-disabled runners (NDR). DESIGN Systematic review. METHODS Five journal databases were systematically searched from inception to March 2020. Included studies compared the biomechanics of RBI (aged>14 years) and NDR performing either block-starts, sprinting, or submaximal running. RESULTS Eight studies were included, analysing a total of 100 RBI (78M:22F; 18-38 years) diagnosed with either cerebral palsy (n=44) or traumatic brain injury (n=56). Studies analysed block-starts (n=3), overground sprinting (n=3) and submaximal running (n=2), and submaximal treadmill running (n=1). Horizontal velocity during starts, sprinting and self-selected submaximal speeds were lower in RBI. During sprinting and submaximal running, compared with NDR, RBI had shorter stride length, step length, and flight time, increased ground-contact time, increased cadence, and reduced ankle and hip range of motion. In submaximal running, RBI had decreased ankle-power generation at toe-off. CONCLUSIONS There is limited research and small sample sizes in this area. However, preliminary evidence suggests that RBI had lower sprint speeds and biomechanical characteristics typical of submaximal running speeds in NDR, including increased ground-contact times and reduced stride length, step length, and flight times. Meaningful interpretation of biomechanical findings in RBI is impeded by impairment variability (type, severity and distribution), and methods which permit valid, reliable impairment stratification in larger samples are required.
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14
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Reina R, Barbado D, Soto-Valero C, Sarabia JM, Roldán A. Evaluation of the bilateral function in para-athletes with spastic hemiplegia: A model-based clustering approach. J Sci Med Sport 2020; 23:710-714. [PMID: 31956044 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2020.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Spastic hemiplegia is one of the most common forms of cerebral palsy, in which one side of the body is affected to a greater extent than the other one. Hemiplegia severity (i.e. moderate vs mild forms) is currently used in some Para sports for classification purposes. This study evaluates the sensitivity of several tests of stability (e.g. one-legged stance test), dynamic balance (side-step test), coordination (rapid heel-toe placements), range of movement (backward stepping lunge), and lower limb power (the triple hop distance and the isometric peak force of the knee extensors) to discriminate between the impaired and unimpaired lower extremities' function in para-athletes with spastic hemiplegia. METHODS A sample of 87 international para-athletes with cerebral palsy took part in the study, and their bilateral performance was measured for the abovementioned tests. The tests' sensitivity to discriminate between impaired vs unimpaired legs was assessed using Boruta's method. RESULTS The triple hop distance, the magnitude of the mean velocity in the one-legged stance test and the time to perform the rapid heel-toe placement test are the most sensitive variables when performing random forest classifiers. In addition, the study confirms two optimal clusters by Gaussian finite mixture models to represent the athletes' performance. CONCLUSIONS Reference scores for the clusters are provided, demonstrating that coordination, balance, and power of the lower limbs are relevant variables for classifying para-athletes with spastic hemiplegia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl Reina
- Department of Sport Sciences, Miguel Hernández University of Elche, Spain
| | - David Barbado
- Department of Sport Sciences, Miguel Hernández University of Elche, Spain
| | | | - José M Sarabia
- Department of Sport Sciences, Miguel Hernández University of Elche, Spain.
| | - Alba Roldán
- Department of Sport Sciences, Miguel Hernández University of Elche, Spain
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15
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Abstract
Prostheses form an essential part of participation in sport and physical activity for athletes with lower or upper limb amputation. These prostheses come in the form of everyday nonsport-specific prostheses, as well as sport-specific prostheses designed to enable participation in specific sports. Sport-specific prostheses are designed to the requirements of the sport to facilitate the achievement of peak performance without causing significant risk of injury. This article addresses the various factors associated with participation in sport and physical activity for individuals with amputation, including the various prostheses for upper and lower limbs and prostheses for different sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Grobler
- Institute of Sport and Exercise Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, Cape Town 7505, South Africa; Department of Sport Science, Faculty of Education, Stellenbosch University, Suidwal Street, Coetzenburg, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa.
| | - Wayne Derman
- Institute of Sport and Exercise Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
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16
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Hammer C, Podlog L, Wadey R, Galli N, Forber-Pratt AJ, Newton M, Hall M, Greviskes L. Understanding posttraumatic growth of paratriathletes with acquired disability. Disabil Rehabil 2017; 41:674-682. [PMID: 29141464 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2017.1402961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the relevance of key components of Organismic Valuing Theory of Growth through Adversity in understanding posttraumatic growth amongst paratriathletes with acquired disability. METHODS Semi-structured interviews informed by organismic valuing theory of growth through adversity were conducted with 14 elite paratriathletes (eight male, six female). To increase the likelihood that participants had experienced posttraumatic growth, a short form of the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory was completed prior to interview participation. Interview data were analyzed using directed content analysis. RESULTS Although the initial response to disability was largely negative, paratriathlon experiences were reported to be a mechanism through which growth was facilitated. In particular, participants suggested that social, competence, empowerment, and identity development processes were instrumental in facilitating posttraumatic growth. CONCLUSIONS Analysis identified themes largely consistent with the main tenets of organismic valuing theory of growth through adversity, supporting its utility in understanding response to a traumatic event and subsequent growth. These findings also suggest that para sport may be an efficacious means for promoting posttraumatic growth, especially for individuals with severe initial reactions to their disability. Lastly, findings suggest that fostering perceptions of competence, autonomy, and social connection may promote posttraumatic growth. Implications for Rehabilitation Acquiring a physical disability may have a detrimental impact on the satisfaction of an individual's fundamental psychological needs. In order to foster posttraumatic growth, the para sport environment should allow for participants to feel competent, autonomous, and to have meaningful interactions with fellow athletes and coaches. Para sport may be particularly beneficial for individuals with previous sporting backgrounds and for those with severe initial reactions to their disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Hammer
- a Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Recreation , The University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
| | - Leslie Podlog
- a Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Recreation , The University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
| | - Ross Wadey
- b School of Sport, Health and Applied Science , St. Mary's University , Twickenham, London , UK
| | - Nick Galli
- a Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Recreation , The University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
| | - Anjali J Forber-Pratt
- c Department of Human and Organizational Development , Vanderbilt University , Nashville , TN , USA
| | - Maria Newton
- a Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Recreation , The University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
| | - Morgan Hall
- a Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Recreation , The University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
| | - Lindsey Greviskes
- a Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Recreation , The University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
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