Three-Dimensional Kinematics of Wheelchair Propulsion Across Racing Speeds

Three-dimensional (3-D) kinematic features of wheelchair propulsion across four selected speeds were investigated based on 10 skilled male wheelchair athletes. Kinematic data were collected through 3-D cinematography with a mirror. The results demonstrated that as the speed increased, the drive phase was performed faster while the range of the push-angle remained constant. More trunk forward lean motion resulted in a large initial contact angle in front of the top dead center of the pushrim. Recovery involved a large range of vertical motion in terms of shoulder abduction and hyperextension in order to increase the distance over which a greater velocity could be developed. To maximize wheelchair racing speed, it was critical to obtain the maximal shoulder and elbow velocities at initial contact of the drive phase and the maximal hand velocity at the end of the recovery phase.