Proceedings of SRR

Background: Children with cerebral palsy can have limited activity levels and decreased muscle strength. Adapted dynamic cycling, using adapted cycles, may increase their activity levels and strength. This pilot study investigated the effects of six adapted dynamic cycling sessions on lower limb muscle strength. Method: The School of Healthcare Studies Research Ethics Committee, Cardiff University, provided ethical approval. Parents and children volunteered for participation following written informed consent. In a same-subject experimental design, four bilateral quadriceps and hamstring strength measures were recorded at 90 degrees knee flexion, while seated. Children participated in six adapted dynamic cycling sessions over 8 weeks using an outdoor circuit, increasing time and distance cycled as able. Results/Findings: Eleven children (5 boys, 6 girls) aged 2.6–17.8 years (SD 5.56) participated. Mean strength differences (right quads=11.51N; SD 3.99; left quads=17.43N; SD 14.96; right hamstrings=8.4N; SD 1.80; left hamstrings=7.4N; SD 1.6) were analysed with non-parametric Wilcoxon’s rank sign test; significance level P