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Physiological responses to maximal effort wheelchair and arm crank ergometry
Summary
This study compared wheelchair ergometer (WERG) and arm crank ergometer (ACE) exercise for fitness testing. While peak oxygen uptake was similar, ACE exercise resulted in higher physical work capacity and maximal heart rate, suggesting it may be superior for propulsion.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Rehabilitation Science
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Assessing physical work capacity is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments.
- Wheelchair ergometry (WERG) and arm crank ergometry (ACE) are common methods for assessing fitness in non-ambulatory populations.
- Understanding the physiological responses to different ergometer types is essential for accurate fitness testing and training program design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare key physiological parameters including physical work capacity (PWC), peak oxygen uptake (peak VO2), maximal pulmonary ventilation (VEmax), maximal heart rate (HRmax), and maximal blood lactate concentration (LAmax) between WERG and ACE exercise.
- To evaluate the suitability of both WERG and ACE for fitness assessment and training in wheelchair-dependent individuals.
- To determine if ACE exercise offers advantages over WERG for wheelchair propulsion.
Main Methods:
- A progressive intensity, discontinuous exercise test was administered to both wheelchair-dependent (n=6) and able-bodied (n=10) subjects.
- Subjects completed tests on both a wheelchair ergometer (WERG) and an arm crank ergometer (ACE).
- Exercise was terminated due to exhaustion or inability to maintain a flywheel velocity of 180 m/min.
Main Results:
- High correlations were observed between WERG and ACE for PWC, peak VO2, VEmax, and HRmax.
- WERG exercise resulted in significantly lower PWC (36%), HRmax (7%), and LAmax (26%) compared to ACE exercise (P < 0.05).
- Peak VO2 and VEmax were similar between the two ergometer types.
Conclusions:
- Both WERG and ACE are viable options for fitness testing and training in individuals unable to use their legs.
- Arm crank ergometry elicits a higher physical work capacity and maximal heart rate, suggesting it may be a more effective method for wheelchair propulsion training.
- The findings support the use of ACE for assessing and enhancing the fitness of wheelchair users.