Sporting Example: Physiological Responses during Handcycling

The aim of this chapter is to provide an insight into the history, classifications, and physiological characteristics of competitive handcycling. Furthermore, based on the evidence available, this chapter aims to provide practical training suggestions by which to develop handcycling performance. Handbike configuration, individual physiological characteristics, and training history all play a significant role in determining handcycling performance. The optimal handcycling technique is highly dependent upon handbike configuration. As such, seat positioning, crank height, crank fore-aft position, crank length, and handgrip position must all be individually configured. In regard to physiological determinants, power output at a fixed blood lactate concentration (B[La]) of 4 mmol·l^-1, peak aerobic power output, relative upper body strength, and maximal anaerobic power output have all been demonstrated to impact upon handcycling performance capabilities. Therefore, it is suggested that an emphasis be placed on the development and frequent monitoring of these parameters. Finally, linked to handcycling training, it is suggested that handcyclists should consider adopting a concurrent strength and endurance training approach, based upon a block periodisation model that employs a mixture of endurance, threshold, interval, and strength training sessions.