Sport science in the Paralympic movement

Investigation of sports participation motivation in people with disabilities: a cross-sectional study of individuals with physical and hearing impairments

While reading the literature, it is seen that there are not enough studies on the motivation of disabled individuals to participate in sports. This study aims to examine the sports participation motivations of hearing impaired and physically disabled athletes. This study was a cross-sectional study. The research group of the study consists of physically and hearing-impaired individuals between the ages of 18-47. The participants of this research group consisted of 253 volunteer disabled individuals, 150 of whom were men and 103 of whom were women. Sports participation motivation scale was used for disabled individuals. The scale consists of 3 dimensions and is a 5-point Likert type. The results of the study showed that hearing-impaired people have a higher high school rate and physically person with disability have a higher bachelor's degree rate, but the primary education rate did not change between hearing and physically person with disability. Physical activity participation differed between hearing and physically person with disability, and it was observed that hearing-impaired people participated in more physical activities. The level of well-being of the physically disabled was significantly better than the hearing impaired. As conclusion, it is observed that the people with the lowest motivation to participate in sports are primary school graduates and those with high welfare have a high motivation to participate in sports.

Correlations between the EMG Structure of Movement Patterns and Activity of Postural Muscles in Able-Bodied and Wheelchair Fencers

The study involved Paralympic wheelchair fencers (N = 7) in two disability categories, and able-bodied female epee fencers (N = 7), members of the polish paralympic fencing teams. The performance of postural muscles and sword arm muscles in both groups of fencers, and of the front and rear leg muscles in the able-bodied fencers, was examined using surface electromyography with an accelerometer and the OptiTrack motion analysis system, as well as ground force reaction platforms. The activation sequence of individual muscles was determined and the structure of movement patterns in able-bodied and wheelchair fencers was formulated. A statistically significant correlation was found between the complex motor reaction time and latissimus dorsi muscle activation (p = 0.039, Z = -2.062) in wheelchair fencers. High correlations between the vertical force and EMG signal values of the gastrocnemius caput laterale muscle (0.85 for p = 0.022) were found in able-bodied fencers. A heuristic analysis indicated the significance of postural muscles in the movement patterns of wheelchair and able-bodied fencers. These muscles play a crucial role in the anticipatory postural adjustment of the trunk during technical fencing actions, including attacks on the opponent's body.

Association Between Hormonal Status, Stress, Recovery, and Motivation of Paralympic Swimmers

Purpose: The present study aimed to investigate associations between hormonal profile (cortisol and testosterone) and the psychobiological aspects of Paralympic athletes during a competitive season. Method: Male Brazilian Paralympic swimmers (n = 11) were evaluated in three Training Camps (TC) during the cycle of training for the Paralympic Games RIO 2016. Questionnaires were used for data collection of stress and recovery, motivation in sport and hormonal status was assessed by salivary samples of cortisol ([Csal]) and testosterone ([Tsal]) concentrations. The Friedman test was used to identify overall significant differences at the three TC for each variable. When the overall p value indicated statistical significance (p < .05), a post hoc Wilcoxon signed-rank test for paired data was used to compare pairs of TC. The Spearman correlation was used to identify associations between the hormonal profile and the psychobiological aspects. Results: There was an association between the [Csal] and the "Conflicts/Pressure" sub-scale (r = 0.60; p = .04) in TC1 and the "Lack of Energy" subscale (r = 0.63; p = .03) in TC2. In the TC3, there were correlations between [Tsal] and "To Know" intrinsic motivation (r = 0.83, p < .01), "Objectives"(r = 0.66, p < .02), "Experiences" (r = 0.65, p < .02) and "Amotivation" (r = -0.70, p = .01). There were also associations between the [Tsal] and the "Social Recovery" (r = 0.77, p < .01), "General Wellness" (r = 0.73, p < .01), "Sleep Quality" (r = 0.63, p = .03) and "Self-efficacy" (r = 0.60, p = .05) subscales. In TC3, there was an association between [Tsal] and the "Success" (r = 0.61, p = .04), "Sleep Quality" (r = 0.62, p = .03), "Personal Accomplish" (r = 0.82, p < .01), "Self-efficacy" (r = 0.82, p < .05), "Self-regulation" (r = 0.85, p < .01) and "Physical Recovery" (r = 0.80, p < .01) subscales. The data demonstrate associations between biomarkers (salivary testosterone and cortisol) and psychobiological domains of Paralympic swimmers.

Neuromuscular, Perceptual, and Temporal Determinants of Movement Patterns in Wheelchair Fencing: Preliminary Study

The objective of the present study was to determine the structure of the movement pattern performed during a wheelchair fencing lunge that is executed in response to visual and sensory stimuli. In addition, a comparison was made between fencers in the categories A and B of disability. In addition, the analysis involved the correlation between the duration of the sensorimotor response and the value of the bioelectric signal recorded in selected muscles. Seven Paralympic team athletes specializing in wheelchair fencing (3 in category A and 4 in category B) participated in the research. The fencers perform at international level competitions and are multiple medalists of the Paralympic Games. In the study, a wireless system for sEMG and accelerometer signal measurement was employed to test the intervals between the initiation of the lunge attack and its termination defined by the touch of the weapon on the coach's torso. The electrodes were placed on 9 key muscles responsible for the effectiveness of the executed attack: DEL, TRI, BC, ECR FCR, LD, and EAO. The significant intergroup difference in the muscle activation was found to be 0.333 s for category A fencers and 0.522 s for category A fencers at p = 0.039 applies to the latissimus dorsi (LD LT) muscle, which demonstrates its significance as a postural muscle in the structure of the examined movement pattern. In terms of the values of EMG, a tendency for higher MVC (%) values in most muscles for category A competitors was recorded. The latissimus dorsi (DL RT) muscle with an intergroup difference of MVC-114.63 for cat. A and 67.50 for cat. B at p = 0.039 turned out to play a significant role. The results prove the role of postural muscles: external abdominal oblique and latissimus dorsi on the effectiveness of the attacks executed in wheelchair fencing.

Time-motion analysis of goalball players in attacks: differences of the player positions and the throwing techniques. Sports Biomech 2018;18:470-481. [PMID: 29578380 DOI: 10.1080/14763141.2018.1433871]

In this study, we aimed to analyse goalball players time-motion variables (distance covered, time spent, maximum and average velocities) in official goalball match attacks, taking into account the attack phases (preparation and throwing), player position (centres and wings) and throwing techniques (frontal, spin and between the legs). A total of 365 attacks were assessed using a video based method (2D) through manual tracking using the Dvideo system. Inferential non-parametric statistics were applied for comparison of preparation vs. throwing phase, wings vs. centres and, among the throwing techniques, frontal, spin and between the legs. Significant differences were found between the attack preparation versus the throwing phase for all player time-motion variables: distance covered, time spent, maximum player velocity and average player velocity. Wing players performed most of the throws (85%) and covered longer distances than centres (1.65 vs 0.31 m). The between the legs and the spin throwing techniques presented greater values for most of the time-motion variables (distance covered, time spent and maximum player velocity) than did the frontal technique in both attack phases. These findings provide important information regarding players' movement patterns during goalball matches that can be used to plan more effective training.

Biomechanics of simulated versus natural cross-country sit skiing

The purpose of this study was to investigate the biomechanics of cross-country sit-skiing in simulated and natural skiing. Thirteen international level athletes participated in a ski ergometer test (simulated conditions) and a test on snow in a ski-tunnel (natural conditions) using their personal sit-ski. Tests in both conditions were performed at individual maximal speed. When comparing the two conditions the main results were: (1) maximal speed in simulated conditions was lower (p<0.05) but correlated well with the natural condition (r=0.79, p<0.001); (2) no differences in pole force variables were found; peak force (r=0.77, p<0.01) and average force (r=0.78, p<0.01) correlated well; (3) recovery time and time to peak did not differ and time to impact correlated with each other (r=0.88, p<0.01); (4) no differences were found in peak electromyography (EMG) and average EMG for Triceps, Pectoralis, and Erector Spinae; Rectus Abdominis did not differ in peak. EMG peak and average EMG of all muscles were correlated between the two conditions (r=0.65-0.94; p<0.05-0.01). Although some differences were observed, this study demonstrated that technical skill proficiency in natural and simulated cross-country skiing is comparable from a force production and muscle activation perspective.

ATUAÇÃO DA FISIOTERAPIA NO ESPORTE PARALÍMPICO

Cada vez mais, atletas paralímpicos têm obtido resultados expressivos em importantes competições, bem como o aparecimento de lesões musculoesqueléticas tem aumentando nesses atletas e, com isso, a ação da fisioterapia passa a ser importante e vem ganhando espaço nessa área. O objetivo do presente estudo é demonstrar as principais lesões musculoesqueléticas e a atuação do fisioterapeuta no esporte paralímpico. Observou-se que existem vários artigos publicados sobre lesões musculoesqueléticas, relacionados com a deficiência e a modalidade praticada pelo atleta. No entanto, são pouco detalhados quanto à atuação do fisioterapeuta e quais seriam as possíveis contribuições desse profissional na avaliação, no monitoramento, na intervenção e na prevenção das lesões em atletas paralímpicos. Pode-se concluir que o fisioterapeuta é um profissional de extrema relevância para a reabilitação de lesões. Contudo, as informações sobre sua atuação no esporte paralímpico ainda são restritas no que se refere às áreas nas quais pode atuar e auxiliar o atleta paralímpico.

Standards of Conditions During Preparations for the Summer Paralympic Games Between 2004 and 2012 Assessed by Polish Athletes

The quality of training conditions affects sporting success, injuries and health. The aim of the work was to present the conditions during the preparations of Polish athletes for the Summer Paralympic Games 2004–2012. The study encompassed 271 paralympians: Athens (91), Beijing (89) and London (91), competing in 13 disciplines. The research was based on a two-part questionnaire by Kłodecka-Różalska adjusted for disabled sports, and was conducted one month before each PG. Part 1 contained 20 closed-ended questions regarding conditions during preparations, while Part 2 concerned socio-demographic and sports-related data. Three levels of conditions: good, satisfactory and poor, were identified. The analysis showed that while the relationships between the athletes were good in all the preparatory periods, the co-operation with the paralympic coaches worsened. The standards of accommodation, food and sports facilities lowered. Personal orthopaedic supply was satisfactory in London; personal sporting equipment was good at all PG. The quality of medical care was the highest in London. The co-operation with physicians, physiotherapists and massage therapists was satisfactory. Consultations with the dietician were sporadic and assessed as poor. Psychological consultations were rare but satisfactory in Beijing and London. Contacts with the mass media were poor at all PG. Although combining private life, work, and education with sport was satisfactory, it was increasingly difficult to manage, particularly before London. The conditions during preparations for the PG 2004–2012 varied. Improvement was noticed only in the quality of medical care and personal orthopaedic supply.

Performance of elite seated discus throwers in F30s classes: part I: does whole body positioning matter?

BACKGROUND

Studies on the relationship between performance and design of the throwing frame have been limited and therefore require further investigation.

OBJECTIVES

The specific objectives were to provide benchmark information about performance and whole body positioning of male athletes in F30s classes.

STUDY DESIGN

Descriptive analysis.

METHODS

A total of 48 attempts performed by 12 stationary discus throwers in F33 and F34 classes during seated discus throwing event of 2002 International Paralympic Committee Athletics World Championships were analysed in this study. The whole body positioning included overall throwing posture (i.e. number of points of contact between the thrower and the frame, body position, throwing orientation and throwing side) and lower limb placements (i.e. seating arrangements, points of contact on the both feet, type of attachment of both legs and feet).

RESULTS

Three (25%), five (42%), one (8%) and three (25%) athletes used from three to six points of contact, respectively. Seven (58%) and five (42%) athletes threw from a standing or a seated position, respectively. A straddle, a stool or a chair was used by six (50%), four (33%) or two (17%) throwers, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides key information for a better understanding of the interaction between throwing technique of elite seated throwers and their throwing frame. Clinical relevance This study aimed at improving the understanding of the relationship between athletic performance and the design of the throwing frame for seated discus throwers, with a particular emphasis on the description of whole body positioning. This knowledge is particularly important in the current debate around general principles underlying the design of throwing frames and classification of athletes with a disability, including those with lower limb amputation.

Biomechanical analyses of the performance of Paralympians: from foundation to elite level. Interview by Sarah A. Curran

A biomechanical analysis of sports performance provides an objective method of determining performance of a particular sporting technique. In particular, it aims to add to the understanding of the mechanisms influencing performance, characterization of athletes and provide insights into injury predisposition. While the performance in sport of able-bodied athletes is well recognized in the literature, less information and understanding are known on the complexity, constraints and demands placed on the body of an individual with a disability. This article provides a dialogue that outlines scientific issues of the performance analysis of multi-level athletes with a disability, including Paralympians. Four integrated themes are explored, the first of which focuses on how biomechanics can contribute to the understanding of sports performance in athletes with a disability and how it may be used as an evidence-based tool. This latter point questions the potential for a possible cultural shift led by the emergence of user-friendly instruments. The second theme briefly discusses the role of reliability of sports performance and addresses the debate of two-dimensional and three-dimensional analyses. The third theme addresses key biomechanical parameters and provides guidance to clinicians and coaches on the approaches adopted using the biomechanical/sports performance analysis for an athlete with a disability starting out, to the emerging and elite Paralympian. For completeness of this discourse, the final theme is based on the controversial issues on the role of assisted devices, and the inclusion of Paralympians into able-bodied sport. All combined, this dialogue highlights the intricate relationship between biomechanics and training of individuals with a disability. Furthermore, it illustrates the complexity of modern training of athletes, which can only lead to a better appreciation of the performances to be delivered in the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

Performance dispersion for evidence-based classification of stationary throwers

BACKGROUND

There is a need for better understanding of the dispersion of classification-related variable to develop an evidence-based classification of athletes with a disability participating in stationary throwing events.

OBJECTIVES

The purposes of this study were as follows: (1) to describe tools designed to comprehend and represent the dispersion of the performance between successive classes and (2) to present this dispersion for the elite male and female stationary shot-putters who participated in Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective study.

METHODS

This study analysed a total of 479 attempts performed by 114 male and female stationary shot-putters in three F30s (F32-F34) and seven F50s (F52-F58) classes during the course of eight events during Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games.

RESULTS

The average differences of best performance were 1.46 ± 0.46 m for males between F54 and F58 classes as well as 1.06 ± 1.18 m for females between F55 and F58 classes. The results demonstrated a linear relationship between best performance and classification while revealing two male gold medallists in F33 and F52 classes as outliers.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the benefits of the comparative matrices, performance continuum and dispersion plots to comprehend classification-related variables. The study presented here represents a stepping stone into biomechanical analyses of stationary throwers, particularly on the eve of the London 2012 Paralympic Games where new evidences could be gathered.