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Table of Contents
Abstract................................................................................................................................3
Case Study: Weight Management in Paraplegic Athletes....................................................4
Assessment Methods........................................................................................................... 4
Cardiovascular Training Methods....................................................................................4
High-Intensity Interval Training..................................................................................5
Steady-State Cardiovascular Training.........................................................................5
Strategies for Reducing Body Fat Percentage.................................................................5
Conclusion........................................................................................................................... 6
References............................................................................................................................7
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Abstract
Wheelchair rugby is a tough sport that demands remarkable muscular and cardiovascular stamina
as well as body composition maintenance. This case study examines ways to increase
cardiovascular fitness while lowering body fat percentage and evaluates fitness assessment
techniques for wheelchair rugby players. Muscular endurance measures like the medicine ball
chest pass and cardiovascular assessment instruments like the arm crank ergometer test and the
six-minute push test will be covered. We'll examine efficient cardiovascular training techniques
like steady-state exercise and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). To maximize body
composition, resistance exercise and dietary changes will also be suggested. These strategies will
guarantee that athletes continue to perform at their best and stay in the sport for a long time.
Keywords: Wheelchair rugby, cardiovascular endurance, muscular endurance, body
composition, high-intensity interval training, resistance training
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Case Study: Weight Management in Paraplegic Athletes
The highly competitive sport of wheelchair rugby requires that players maintain high
levels of muscle and cardiovascular endurance. It is crucial to use appropriate evaluation
techniques and training procedures, as I have been asked by a coach to evaluate the athletes'
body composition, muscular endurance, and cardiovascular endurance. In addition to monitoring
player development, the evaluation procedure will guide individualized training regimens to
maximize performance. For this population, the ultimate objective of rehabilitation is focused on
improving independence and quality of life (Hicks et. al., 2003).
Assessment Methods
To accurately assess cardiovascular endurance, I would utilize the arm crank ergometer
test and the six-minute push test. The arm crank ergometer test measures peak oxygen uptake
(VO2max) and provides insight into cardiovascular efficiency specific to upper-body exertion
(Hicks et. al., 2003). The six-minute push test evaluates distance covered in a set time, reflecting
real-game endurance. The medicine ball chest pass test, which gauges upper-body strength and
endurance, will be used to evaluate muscular endurance (Hicks et al., 2003). Additionally, under
controlled circumstances, a wheelchair-adapted push-up test will evaluate repetitive upper-body
muscle contractions (Gibson et. al., 2025). Skinfold measurements at the triceps and subscapular
sites or bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) will be used to assess body composition (Gibson
et al., 2025). For athletes with mobility problems, these techniques provide accurate estimates of
body fat percentage.
Cardiovascular Training Methods
I would suggest two main training approaches to improve cardiovascular endurance: steady-state
cardiovascular training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
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High-Intensity Interval Training. Short bursts of high-intensity effort are combined
with rest or low-intensity recovery in this form of training. A HIIT session for wheelchair rugby
players might consist of 20–30 minutes of moderate-speed rolling mixed with 30 seconds of fast
wheelchair sprints (Gibson, Wagner, & Heyward, 2025). For brief bursts of exertion during
gameplay, HIIT enhances anaerobic capacity and cardiovascular efficiency (Gibson et. al., 2025).
Steady-State Cardiovascular Training. This requires prolonged periods of moderate-
intensity exercise, such as 30 to 45 minutes of steady wheelchair rolling. This technique
promotes fat oxidation and increases aerobic endurance (Gibson et. al., 2025).
Strategies for Reducing Body Fat Percentage
Targeted resistance exercise combined with dietary changes is necessary to reach an ideal
body composition. Especially for those in high intensity sports, dietary demands can call for
different nutritional regimens compared to the general population.
Dietary Adjustments. To maintain lean muscle mass, athletes should concentrate on
eating a diet rich in nutrients and a well-balanced protein consumption. Limiting processed carbs
and consuming more fiber can help you feel full and avoid consuming too many calories (Kebles
& Hemric, 2021). Effectively reducing body fat percentage can be achieved by keeping an eye
on macronutrient consumption while ensuring there is a caloric deficit when necessary.
Resistance Training. Resistance exercises that increase muscular growth and metabolic
rate include medicine ball tosses, weighted wheelchair pushes, and resistance band pushes.
Sustained fat loss and enhanced performance depend on maintaining lean muscle mass (Gibson
et. al., 2025).
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Conclusion
Assessing the cardiovascular endurance, muscular endurance, and body composition of
wheelchair rugby players offer important information about their general level of fitness. Their
performance and body composition will be improved by placing practice focused evaluation
techniques and calculated interventions, such as weight training, HIIT, steady-state training, and
dietary changes. Athletes can ensure long-term success in wheelchair rugby by implementing
these evidence-based tactics, which will increase their endurance, decrease body fat, and enhance
their skills.
Kailyn Barrett
L34435903
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References
Gibson, A. L., Wagner, D. R., & Heyward, V. H. (2025). Advanced Fitness Assessment and
Exercise Prescription. Human Kinetics.
Hicks, A. L., Martin, K. A., Ditor, D. S., Latimer, A. E., Craven, C., Bugaresti, J., & McCartney,
N. (2003). Long-term exercise training in persons with spinal cord injury: Effects on
strength, arm ergometry performance and psychological well-being.DSpinal Cord, 41(1),
34–43.Dhttps://doi.org/10.1038/sj.sc.3101389
Kebles, C. A., & Hemric, M. (2021). Omega-Z diet for weight loss. Omega-Z Diet Books.
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