Comparison of Aerobic Performance Testing Protocols in Elite Male Wheelchair Basketball Players

Abstract

In wheelchair sports, aerobic performance is commonly assessed with the use of an arm crank ergometer (ACE), a wheelchair ergometer (WCE) or a wheelchair treadmill (WCT). There are different protocols to identify peak oxygen uptake in wheelchair sports; however, only a few protocols have been applied to evaluate these conditions in wheelchair basketball players. The purpose of this study was to compare physiological responses during maximal exercise testing with the use of ACE and WCT in wheelchair basketball players. Twelve elite male wheelchair basketball players participated in this study. The research was performed during a training camp of the Polish National Wheelchair Basketball Team. The study participants were divided into two functional categories: A (players with class 1.0 - 2.5) and B (players with class 3.0 - 4.5). Two main maximal exercise tests, i.e. wheelchair treadmill stress test (WCT test) and arm crank ergometer stress test (ACE test) were used to evaluate aerobic performance of the players. There were no statistically significant differences in aerobic tests between the players from both groups. The comparison of results achieved in two aerobic tests performed on WCT and ACE did not reveal any significant differences between the analyzed variables (peak heart rate (HRpeak), peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), minute ventilation (VE), anaerobic threshold (AT), lactate concentration (LApeak), and a drop in lactate concentration (%LA)). Strong correlations between results achieved in WCT and ACE tests were found for VO2peak, VE and LApeak. The main conclusion of the study is that both WCT and ACE tests may be useful when determining aerobic capacity of wheelchair basketball players. Moreover, both protocols can be used by athletes regardless of their functional capabilities and types of impairment.

The physiological response of athletes with impairments in wheelchair basketball game

“…What is important to underline when discussing HR assessment before the match HR data analysis, in the current study, the valid aerobic test on an arm crank ergometer proposed by Molik et al [9] was used to evaluate HR peak . iturricastillo et al [12,13] assessed absolute HR in a field test -the 10-meter Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 1 (YYiR1).…”

“…[13] and Molik et al [9] used valid and reliable but different HR peak assessment methods. in consequence, we decided to use the latter approach in our study.…”

“…Match data analysis to establish HR peak for each player, aerobic performance laboratory testing was carried out on an arm crank ergometer (Lode AcE, Groningen, the Netherlands) 1-4 weeks before the match (May 2017 and May 2018). this protocol was proposed by Molik et al [9]. to maximize trunk stability, the athletes used their own basketball wheelchairs and their strapping system (like during the game).…”

Factors Influencing Speed of Collegiate Wheelchair Basketball Players

“…Using sport-specific manual propulsion wheelchairs, performance depends on endurance, strength, speed, coordination and mobility. 11 In an attempt to provide parity and opportunity for individuals of all levels of function to play, players are grouped into categories or classes ranging from 1.0 (least physical function) to 4.5 (most physical function), and only a certain number of points are allowed on the floor at any given time. Classification is based on the function of the trunk, the upper extremities, the lower extremities and the hands, relying mostly on the movement and stability of the player's trunk.…”

“…1,4,9,10,13,14 The purposes of these studies have focused on wheelchair propulsion biomechanics, push characteristics in wheelchair court sprinting, and wheelchair configuration for optimal mobility performance in wheelchair sports. 1,6,10,11 This study focuses on the biomechanics of the wheelchair basketball player's manual propulsion and factors directly related to the participant rather than external factors or wheelchair configuration.…”