The Science of Handcycling: A Narrative Review

Abstract

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.

Elite performance in para-cycling: a scoping review

“…Although the number of performance related studies in para-cycling is increasing, the research topics, study designs, performance measures, and number of participants have been diverse, and research on para-cycling has only been scratching the surface of what is possible and needed to increase performance and to develop the sport (Dyer, 2016;Kraaijenbrink et al, 2021;Nevin et al, 2022;Stephenson et al, 2021). Defining research gaps here might help coaches and researchers, but also governing bodies, to structure their own research program.…”

“…Earlier work on Paralympic sports performance indicated the need for more specific research on elite athletes with a disability (Bachar & Douer, 2022;Keogh, 2011;Morrien et al, 2017;Perret, 2017). However, most para-cycling specific studies focused on rehabilitation, increasing mobility, or recreational sports (see Dyer (2016) for a recent review on cycling with a prosthesis and (Kraaijenbrink et al, 2021;Nevin et al, 2022;Stephenson et al, 2021) for recent reviews on handcycling), and not on performance enhancement of the elite para-cyclist. Furthermore, the validity of some of those studies has been questioned (Kraaijenbrink et al, 2021).…”

Case Report: Training Monitoring and Performance Development of a Triathlete With Spinal Cord Injury and Chronic Myeloid Leukemia During a Paralympic Cycle

“…In handcycling, an incremental test on an ergometer (Cyclus 2, RMB electronic automation GmbH, Leipzig, Germany) was performed to determine the power corresponding to a BLC of 4 mmol•l −1 (P OBLA ) (25) and the peak oxygen uptake (VO 2peak ) which was measured by a spirograph (ZAN 600, nSpire Health, Inc., Longmont, CO, United States), as these parameters are significantly associated with handcycling performance (34)(35)(36). The incremental test started with an initial load of 20 W and increased intensity by 20 W every 5 min until the athlete attained subjective exhaustion (26).…”

Differentiated ratings of perceived exertion in upper body exercise

“…Handcycling as an alternative method of upper body exercise testing and training has received recent attention in the literature and has the potential to increase functional status and participation [16][17][18]. More knowledge on RPE specific to upper body training modes is required to use as input to assess and prescribe adequate exercise intensity in the upper body.…”