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Determining and Controlling External Power Output During Regular Handrim Wheelchair Propulsion
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The Influence of Glove Type on Simulated Wheelchair Racing Propulsion: A Pilot Study
I Rice1, J Dysterheft2, A W Bleakney3
1Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, United States.
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|October 29, 2015
Summary
Solid gloves enhance wheelchair racer performance by increasing speed and force during steady-state and sprint conditions. This study investigated glove type effects on wheelchair propulsion kinetics and spatiotemporal parameters.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Biomechanics
- Paralympic Sports
Background:
- Wheelchair racing is a demanding Paralympic sport.
- Glove type is a potential factor influencing wheelchair propulsion efficiency.
- Understanding handrim interaction is crucial for optimizing athlete performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of different glove types (soft vs. solid) on wheelchair propulsion.
- To analyze kinetic and spatiotemporal parameters during steady-state and sprint conditions.
- To determine if specific glove types offer performance advantages for elite wheelchair racers.
Main Methods:
- Nine elite wheelchair racers participated.
- Propulsion occurred on a dynamometer with a force-sensing wheel.
- Racers performed steady-state (3 speeds) and maximal sprint efforts with soft and solid gloves.
Main Results:
- Solid gloves led to faster steady-state speeds, higher stroke frequency, and larger contact angles.
- During sprints, solid gloves resulted in greater peak forces and higher top-end velocities.
- Solid gloves were associated with less impulse during steady-state and reduced braking torque during sprints.
Conclusions:
- Solid gloves may offer performance benefits for elite wheelchair racers.
- The findings suggest that glove material can influence propulsion dynamics.
- Further research could explore optimal glove design for wheelchair athletes.
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