Improving mobility performance in wheelchair basketball

Journal article (2017)

Authors

Thom T.J. Veeger Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

A. M.H. De Witte Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Hague University of Applied Sciences

Monique A.M. Berger The Hague University of Applied Sciences

R.M.A. van der Slikke The Hague University of Applied Sciences, Biomechatronics & Human-Machine Control - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

H.E.J. Veeger Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Biomechanical Engineering , Biomechatronics & Human-Machine Control - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

DirkJan Veeger Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Biomechanical Engineering , Biomechatronics & Human-Machine Control - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

M. J.M. Hoozemans Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Department

Biomechanical Engineering

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1123/jsr.2017-0142

Wheelchair configuration Athletic performance Paralympic Wheelchair-athlete interface

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Published Date

2017

Language

English

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Department

Biomechanical Engineering

Abstract

Objectiev:
This study aimed to investigate which characteristics of athlete, wheelchair and athlete-wheelchair interface are the best predictors of wheelchair basketball mobility performance.

Design:
Sixty experienced wheelchair basketball players performed a wheelchair mobility performance test to assess their mobility performance. To determine which variables were the best predictors of mobility performance, forward stepwise linear regression analyses were performed on a set of 33 characteristics, including ten athlete, nineteen wheelchair and four athlete-wheelchair interface characteristics.

Results:
Eight of the characteristics turned out to be significant predictors of wheelchair basketball mobility performance. Classification, experience, maximal isometric force, wheel axis height and hand rim diameter - which both interchangeable with each other and wheel diameter - camber angle, and the vertical distance between shoulder and rear wheel axis – which was interchangeable with seat height - were positively associated with mobility performance. The vertical distance between the front seat and the footrest was negatively associated with mobility performance.

Conclusion:
With this insight, coaches and biomechanical specialists are provided with statistical findings to determine which characteristics they could focus on best to improve mobility performance. Six out of eight predictors are modifiable and can be optimized to improve mobility performance. These adjustments could be carried out both in training (maximal isometric force) and in wheelchair configurations (e.g. camber angle).

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