posted on 2020-08-24, 11:14authored byC Kraaijenbrink, R Vegter, S de Groot, U Arnet, L Valent, J Verellen, Kees van Breukelen, F Hettinga, C Perret, T Abel, Vicky Goosey-TolfreyVicky Goosey-Tolfrey, L van der Woude
In this narrative review the potential and importance of handcycling are evaluated. Four conceptual models form the framework for this review; (1) the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health; (2) the Stress Strain-Capacity model; (3) the Human-Activity-Assistive Technology model; and (4) the power balance model for cyclic exercise. Based on international handcycle experience in (scientific) research and practice, evidence-based benefits of handcycling and optimization of handcycle settings are presented and discussed for rehabilitation, daily life and recreational sports. As the load can be distributed over the full 360o
cycle in handcycling, peak stresses in the shoulder joint and upper body muscles reduce. Moreover, by handcycling regularly, the physical capacity can be improved. The potential of handcycling as an exercise mode for a healthy lifestyle should be recognized and advocated much more widely in rehabilitation and adapted sports practice. The interface between handcycle and its user should be optimized by choosing a suitable person-specific handcycle, but mainly by optimizing the handcycle dimensions to one’s needs and desires. These dimensions can influence efficient handcycle use and potentially improve both endurance and speed of handcycling. To optimize performance in rehabilitation, daily life and recreational sports, continued and more systematic research is required.
This is an Open Access Article. It is published by Taylor and Francis under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) licence. Full details of this licence are available at: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/