Peak aerobic work capacity in wheelchair athletes

L.H.V. van der Woude, H.E.J. Veeger, C. Bouten, T. Gwinn

    Research output: Contribution to JournalArticleAcademicpeer-review

    Abstract

    Objective: To give a descriptive analysis of aerobic capacity among elite wheelchair athletes in association with various personal characteristics and sprint or anaerobic capacity. Design: Sixty-eight wheelchair athletes who participated in the World Games and Championships for the Disabled were included. Parameters for aerobic capacity were evaluated in a standardized wheelchair exercise test on a computer-controlled wheelchair ergometer at the games. The ergometer setting was individually tuned according to standardized procedures. Results: Mean maximum power output was 72.2 ± 36.7 W. Peak oxygen uptake showed similar strong variations among different subject groups. High values were seen in a group of six subjects with amputations. Results stressed that, apart from sex, functionality and training status had a strong influence on aerobic capacity. Anaerobic and aerobic capacity were strongly associated. Conclusions: Functionality, training status, and sex are important determinants of aerobic capacity. The functional classification used at international sports events is represented in the data, and further study into the possible contribution of standardized exercise tests within the issue of classification must be considered. The use of standardized exercise tests for the evaluation of training and for rehabilitation progress must be advocated, with power output being an important outcome measure at the level of ability, whereas oxygen uptake represents outcome at the level of organ systems.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)261-271
    JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
    Volume81
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2002

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'Peak aerobic work capacity in wheelchair athletes'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this