Para-cycling race performance in different sport classes

Abstract

Purpose

The para-cycling classification system, consisting of five classes (C1–C5) for bicycling (C5 athletes having least impairments), is mostly based on expert-opinion rather than scientific evidence. The aim of this study was to determine the differences in race performance between para-cycling classes.

Methods

From official results of the men’s 1 km time trials for classes C1–C5 of seven Union Cycliste Internationale World Championships and Paralympics, median race speed of the five fastest athletes in each class was calculated (n = 175). Para-cycling results were expressed as a percentage of able-bodied performance using race results from the same years (n = 35). To assess differences between consecutive classes, Kruskal-Wallis tests with Mann-Whitney U post hoc tests were performed, correcting for multiple testing (p < 0.013).

Results

Para-cyclists in C1 reached 75% (median ± interquartile range = 44.8 ± 4.2 km/h) and in C5 90% (53.5 ± 2.9 km/h) of able-bodied race speed (59.4 ± 0.9 km/h). Median race speed between consecutive classes was significantly different (χ² = 142.6, p < 0.01), except for C4 (52.1 ± 2.8 km/h) and C5 (U = 447.0, p = 0.05).

Conclusion

Current para-cycling classification does not clearly differentiate between classes with least impairments.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

• The current classification system is not evidence-based and does not clearly differentiate between relevant groups of para-cyclists.

• An evidence-based para-cycling classification system is essential for a fair and equitable competition.

• Fair competition will make it more interesting and increase participation.

• Para-cycling can inspire everyone with and even those without disabilities to be physically active.

Keywords:

• Para-cycling
• paralympic sports
• classification
• performance
• cycling

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

The datasets used and/or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

Additional information

Funding

This project has been carried out with the support of the Union Cycliste Internationale. The funding body was not involved in decisions concerning the design of this manuscript, data analysis, interpretation of data or in reporting and publishing this project.