The effect of push frequency and stroke time on wheelchair maneuverability among wheelchair tennis athletes on hard tennis court.

Publisher: Nature Publishing Group Country of Publication: England NLM ID: 101563288 Publication Model: Electronic Cited Medium: Internet ISSN: 2045-2322 (Electronic) Linking ISSN: 20452322 NLM ISO Abbreviation: Sci Rep Subsets: MEDLINE

Original Publication: London : Nature Publishing Group, copyright 2011-

Wheelchairs* ; Tennis* ; Athletes* ; Athletic Performance*/physiology; Humans ; Male ; Adult ; Female ; Young Adult ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; Physical Exertion/physiology

Wheelchair propulsion is a fundamental skill in wheelchair sports, particularly in wheelchair tennis. To achieve optimal mobility during wheelchair athletic performance, it is essential to consider propulsion techniques. This study examines the effect of push frequency and stroke duration on wheelchair maneuverability, measured by velocity during propulsion, among wheelchair tennis athletes. The athletes (N = 9; 5 elite and 4 novice) performed three tests; namely the comfortable speed propulsion test, sprint test and round-trip test; with and without holding their racquet, over their hard court. Results revealed that push frequency had positive correlation with propulsion velocity (r = 0.840, p < 0.001) while stroke time was negatively correlated with velocity (r = -0.859, p < 0.001). Propulsion performance between elite and novice wheelchair athletes, and between propelling with and without racquet were also reflected through these parameters. The rate of perceived exertion (RPE) had significantly positive but low correlation with velocity and push frequency, and significant negative correlation with stroke time. This study could serve as a recommendation for wheelchair tennis athletes and coaches in planning their training protocols and techniques.
Competing Interests: Declarations. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing financial and non-financial interests.
(© 2024. The Author(s).)

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Keywords: Propulsion; Push frequency; Stroke time; Wheelchair athletes; Wheelchair tennis

Date Created: 20241229 Date Completed: 20241229 Latest Revision: 20241229

20241229

10.1038/s41598-024-83127-7

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