Perceived exertion responses and performance of two mode of propulsion in the multistage field test with wheelchair basketball players

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to comparing, performance and perceived exertion of the synchronous versus asynchronous mode of wheelchair propulsion within the framework of a progressive aerobic field test. Materials and method Eight highly trained wheelchair basketball players have performed an incremental multistage field test in two separate sessions (synchronous and asynchronous). The number of exercise levels performed, maximal aerobic velocity, rating of perceived exertion and arm frequency were measured. Results The number of exercise levels performed and maximal aerobic velocity are significantly increased in the synchronous mode (P < 0.05) and arm frequency is significantly higher in synchronous versus asynchronous at 100% maximal aerobic velocity. There is a significant correlation between both modes of propulsion for the number of exercise levels performed (r2 = 0.80). However, normalized rating of perceived exertion values at each maximal aerobic velocity percentage shows no significant difference whatever the mode of propulsion, even if the absolute value of rating of perceived exertion tends to be higher in asynchronous versus synchronous at each stages. Conclusion Synchronous mode provides better performance than asynchronous, in terms of number of exercise levels performed and maximal aerobic velocity. Arm frequency could restrict athletes’ performance in asynchronous propulsion during the final stage. It would be interesting for futures studies to assess both physiological and biomechanical parameters simultaneously.