Anaerobic fitness testing of wheelchair users

Anaerobic exercise testing has been applied since the 1970s as a procedure for estimating the capacity of local energy mechanisms dominating short term exercise. Compared with lower-body anaerobic testing, upper-body anaerobic testing is relatively new and less fully investigated. The reported data in this area are limited, and there is a paucity of reference values. For this review, the literature was searched by computerised inquiries of international and local databases, as well as personal access to PhD theses and congress proceedings. This article reviews the existing literature, covering a period of 20 years from 1976 to 1995. Data are reported concerning the findings of variables relevant to the anaerobic capacity of wheelchair users. The research findings revealed in the literature published so far are analysed here with particular attention paid to the methods and instrumentation used (type of ergometer and protocol utilised in the tests). Limitations in existing instrumentation and research designs and goals for further study have been suggested. Specific sections analyse the relevance of anaerobic performance variables to the classification and activity level of the individuals involved and their relevance to daily life and sports-related physical performance. Inter-relationships observed between anaerobic and aerobic capacity indices are discussed with respect to the limiting nature of local muscular fatigue over central processes. This information may be helpful in better understanding the exercise limitations and potential of wheelchair users with lower-limb impairments. Thus, clinical application of anaerobic fitness testing in these individuals may be enhanced.