Biomechanics of handcycling propulsion in a 30-min continuous load test at lactate threshold: Kinetics, kinematics, and muscular activity in able-bodied participants

Quittmann, Oliver J.; Abel, Thomas; Albracht, Kirsten; Meskemper, Joshua; Foitschik, Tina; Strüder, Heiko K.

doi:10.1007/s00421-020-04373-x

Cited by 11 publications

(11 citation statements)

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“…The cyclical flexion and extension of the elbow and shoulder generate the propulsive torque applied to the handgrips. The torque profile in handcycling demonstrates 2 distinct maxima and minima, which allow for dividing propulsion into a push and pull phase (Figure 1), [7][8][9] The highest torques are generated during the middle of the push and pull phase in which the arm flexors and extensors are in a favorable position to generate force. 10,11 However, the turnover phases, furthest reach, and closest reach, have been demonstrated to be less favorable positions to generate force.…”

Section: Biomechanics Of Handcyclingmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…At the lowest crank position, the anterior part of the shoulder muscle (M. deltoideus, pars clavicularis) is activated to lift the handgrips upward. 8,10,15 The second half of the pull-up is then initiated by activation of the chest muscle (M. pectoralis major) which is supported by the elbow extensors (M. triceps brachii) which are activated shortly afterward. The period of cocontraction between elbow flexors and extensors and the anterior and posterior parts of the M. deltoideus lasts approximately 15°to 20°, respectively.…”

Section: Biomechanics Of Handcyclingmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…The period of cocontraction between elbow flexors and extensors and the anterior and posterior parts of the M. deltoideus lasts approximately 15°to 20°, respectively. 8,10,15 In summary, the M. deltoideus initiates and mediates the different phases of the crank cycle while the large upper body muscle groups are used to generate propulsive forces.…”

Section: Biomechanics Of Handcyclingmentioning

confidence: 99%

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The Science of Handcycling: A Narrative Review

Nevin¹,

Kouwijzer²,

Stone³

et al. 2022

International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance

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The aim of this narrative review is to provide insight as to the history, biomechanics, and physiological characteristics of competitive handcycling. Furthermore, based upon the limited evidence available, this paper aims to provide practical training suggestions by which to develop competitive handcycling performance. Handbike configuration, individual physiological characteristics, and training history all play a significant role in determining competitive handcycling performance. Optimal handcycling technique is highly dependent upon handbike configuration. As such, seat positioning, crank height, crank fore-aft position, crank length, and handgrip position must all be individually configured. In regard to physiological determinants, power output at a fixed blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol·L−1, relative oxygen consumption, peak aerobic power output, relative upper body strength, and maximal anaerobic power output have all been demonstrated to impact upon handcycling performance capabilities. Therefore, it is suggested that that an emphasis be placed upon the development and frequent monitoring of these parameters. Finally, linked to handcycling training, it is suggested that handcyclists should consider adopting a concurrent strength and endurance training approach, based upon a block periodization model that employs a mixture of endurance, threshold, interval, and strength training sessions. Despite our findings, it is clear that several gaps in our scientific knowledge of handcycling remain and that further research is necessary in order to improve our understanding of factors that determine optimal performance of competitive handcyclists. Finally, further longitudinal research is required across all classifications to study the effects of different training programs upon handcycling performance.

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Section: Biomechanics Of Handcyclingmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Biomechanics Of Handcyclingmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Biomechanics Of Handcyclingmentioning

confidence: 99%

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The Science of Handcycling: A Narrative Review

Nevin¹,

Kouwijzer²,

Stone³

et al. 2022

International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance

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“…The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effects of a 7-week ACSM-based [25] resistance training program in a standard gym setting that stressed the primary muscles involved in handcycling using concentric and eccentric contractions of key muscles of the arms and shoulder complex [26,27] on measures of handcycling performance (as indicated by maximal power output, muscular strength, time to exhaustion, and maximal oxygen uptake) in able-bodied males. Able-bodied participants are inexperienced in wheelchair propulsion and in that respect comparable to some extent to those people with lower-limb impairment early in the initial clinical rehabilitation phase.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Effects of 7-week Resistance Training on Handcycle Performance in Able-bodied Males

et al. 2021

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The effect of an upper body resistance training program on maximal and submaximal handcycling performance in able-bodied males was explored. Eighteen able-bodied men were randomly assigned to a training group (TG: n=10) and a control group (CG: n=8). TG received 7 weeks of upper body resistance training (60% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM), 3×10 repetitions, 6 exercise stations, 2 times per week). CG received no training. Peak values for oxygen uptake (V˙O2peak), power output (POpeak), heart rate (HRpeak), minute ventilation (V˙OEpeak) and respiratory exchange ratio (RERpeak), submaximal values (HR, V˙O2, RER, PO, and gross mechanical efficiency (GE)), and time to exhaustion (TTE) were determined in an incremental test pre- and post-training. Maximal isokinetic arm strength and 1RM tests were conducted. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were assessed. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA and post-hoc comparisons were performed to examine the effect of time, group and its interaction (p<0.05). TG improved on POpeak (8.55%), TTE (10.73%), and 1RM (12.28–38.98%). RPE at the same stage during pre- and post-test was lower during the post-test (8.17%). Despite no improvements in V˙O2peak, training improved POpeak, muscular strength, and TTE. Upper body resistance training has the potential to improve handcycling performance.

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“…Furthermore, recent studies have frequently instrumented recumbent handbikes with Schoberer Rad Messtechnik (SRM) powermeters to quantify cycle kinetics during handcycling. 15,16 While this research has largely explored able-bodied participants, the technology offers valuable information to further understand the effects of crank length manipulations. Although previous research has included a combination of kinematic and kinetic measures to examine the effects of different handbike configurations, [17][18][19][20] no study has combined all these measures to investigate trained handcyclists, cycling at sport-specific intensities in a recumbent handbike.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Crank length alters kinematics and kinetics, yet not the economy of recumbent handcyclists at constant handgrip speeds

Mason

Stone

Warner

et al. 2020

Scandinavian Med Sci Sports

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Handcycling performance is dependent on the physiological economy of the athlete; however, handbike configuration and the biomechanical interaction between the two are also vital. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of crank length manipulations on physiological and biomechanical aspects of recumbent handcycling performance in highly trained recumbent handcyclists at a constant linear handgrip speed and sport-specific intensity. Nine competitive handcyclists completed a 3-minute trial in an adjustable recumbent handbike in four crank length settings (150, 160, 170 & 180 mm) at 70% peak power output. Handgrip speed was controlled (1.6 m•s −1) across trials with cadences ranging from 102 to 85 rpm. Physiological economy, heart rate, and ratings of perceived exertion were monitored in all trials. Handcycling kinetics were quantified using an SRM (Schoberer Rad Messtechnik) powermeter, and upper limb kinematics were determined using a 10-camera VICON motion capture system. Physiological responses were not significantly affected by crank length. However, greater torque was generated (P < .0005) and peak torque occurred earlier during the push and pull phase (P ≤ .001) in longer cranks. Statistical parametric mapping revealed that the timing and orientation of shoulder flexion, shoulder abduction, and elbow extension were significantly altered in different crank lengths. Despite the biomechanical adaptations, these findings suggest that at constant handgrip speeds (and varying cadence) highly trained handcyclists may select crank lengths between 150 and 180 mm without affecting their physiological performance. Until further research, factors such as anthropometrics, comfort, and selfselected cadence should be used to facilitate crank length selection in recumbent handcyclists.

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Biomechanics of handcycling propulsion in a 30-min continuous load test at lactate threshold: Kinetics, kinematics, and muscular activity in able-bodied participants

Cited by 11 publications

References 62 publications

The Science of Handcycling: A Narrative Review

The Science of Handcycling: A Narrative Review

Effects of 7-week Resistance Training on Handcycle Performance in Able-bodied Males

Crank length alters kinematics and kinetics, yet not the economy of recumbent handcyclists at constant handgrip speeds

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