Adaptations in physiology and propulsion techniques during the initial phase of learning manual wheelchair propulsion.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to analyze adaptations in gross mechanical efficiency and wheelchair propulsion technique in novice able-bodied subjects during the initial phase of learning hand-rim wheelchair propulsion.


METHODS
Nine able-bodied subjects performed three 4-min practice blocks on a wheelchair ergometer. The external power output and velocity of all blocks was, respectively, 0.25 W/kg and 1.11 m/sec. Gross mechanical efficiency, force application, timing, and intercycle variability were measured.


RESULTS
No change in gross mechanical efficiency was found. However, a decrease in push frequency occurred, which was accompanied by an increase in work per cycle and a decrease in percentage push time. The increase in work per cycle was associated with a higher peak torque. No changes in intercycle variability were visible over time.


CONCLUSIONS
The timing variables had already changed during the initial phase of learning manual wheelchair propulsion. However, for other variables, such as force production, gross mechanical efficiency, and intercycle variability, a longer practice period might be necessary to induce a change. The effective force direction seemed to be optimized from the start of the learning process onward.
de Groot
S
S
Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Veeger
H E J
HE
Hollander
A P
AP
van der Woude
L H V
LH
D000222:Adaptation, Physiological; D000328:Adult; D001132:Arm / Q000502:physiology*; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D003198:Computer Simulation; D016552:Ergometry; D006801:Humans; D008124:Locomotion / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D008433:Mathematics; D019415:Torque; D014910:Wheelchairs