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Abstract
Purpose. To demonstrate the applicability of the power balance model to elite handcycling and to obtain values for gross efficiency (GE).
Methods. Four members of the Dutch Paralympic team performed trials on a 250-m indoor track. Velocity (v) and power output (PO) were measured in conjunction with physiological measures to obtain values for GE. The data were used to construct and validate a power balance model of handcycling.
Results. The empirically derived relationship between PO and velocity was: PO = 0.20v3 + 2.90v (R2 = 0.95). Mean GE during submaximal performance was 17.9% ± 1.6%.
Conclusion. Handcycling performance can successfully be modelled with a power balance model. The model provides insight into the magnitude of power production and dissipation during elite handcycling. Handcycling is a relatively efficient upper body mode of propulsion with associated high metabolic demand at race velocities.
Acknowledgements
We are grateful to the Dutch Olympic Committee/Dutch Sport Federation, which supported this study financially. Furthermore, we are grateful to TNO who provided the Schmicking race-handcycle on which the subjects were evaluated. We thank Amy Jonk, MSc. and Irene van den Berg, MSc. for their help with planning the study and collection of data.