THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN 3-DIMENSIONAL WHEELCHAIR PROPULSION TECHNIQUES AND PUSHING ECONOMY

Three-dimensional kinematic and physiological data were obtained from 18 wheelchair racers, to allow the relationship between pushing econom y and kinematic variables at 4.70 m.s(-1) (n = 18) and 6.58 m.s(-1) (n = 12) to be examined. Large interindividual differences in wheelchair propulsion styles were present, which made it difficult to identify v ariables that were associated with pushing economy and indeed to disti nguish key variables that were characteristic of an economical wheelch air racer. Furthermore, those variables associated with economy proved inconsistent across the two speeds. However, at both speeds a higher mechanical efficiency and lower push rate were associated with better economy (p < .05). It was also found that the timing parameters were i mportant. In this respect most athletes tended to push through a simil ar push angle; however, push rate differed between individuals, sugges ting that the magnitude and direction of the hand-rim forces may be im portant for determining economy of propulsion.