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Updated: Oct 7, 2025
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Published on: July 17, 2020
Athlete-Perceived Impact of Frame Running on Physical Fitness, Functional Mobility and Psychosocial Outcomes
Marietta L Van der Linden1, Petra E M Van Schie, Emma Hjalmarsson
1Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh, Musselburgh, EH21 6UU, UK. mvanderlinden@qmu.ac.uk.
Objective:
Frame Running (RaceRunning) allows people with moderate-to-severe mobility impairments to participate in physical activity using a 3-wheeled frame with a saddle and handlebars. The aim of this study was to investigate athlete-perceived impact of Frame Running on aspects of physical fitness, functional mobility and psychosocial outcomes.
Design:
Survey.
Participants:
Frame Running athletes aged 5 years and over.
Methods:
A survey was distributed to athletes through their club or sports organization.
Results:
The survey was completed by 115 athletes (53 females). Median age was 17 years (range 5-62 years) and 64 (57%) used a wheelchair or walker for distances over 50 m. Many felt that Frame Running stretched their muscles (n = 93, 87%) and increased their self-confidence (n = 63, 93%). Four (4%) reported extreme fatigue or sore muscles after training (n = 17, 15%). Of the 110 athletes who had been participating in Frame Running for over 3 months, 46 (47%) reported being less out of breath during mobility tasks and 66 (66%) felt they had improved their functional mobility. However, 7 (7%) reported increased muscle tightness and 4 (4%) reported a Frame Running-related injury lasting more than 4 weeks.
Conclusion:
Frame Running is a safe physical activity with athlete-perceived benefits on physical fitness, functional mobility and psychosocial outcomes.
