The effect of upper limb characteristics on palm strength, anaerobic power, and technical skills of wheelchair basketball players of varying classification

Wheelchair basketball is one of the most popular team sports for athletes with physical disabilities. The athletes’ performance appears to be affected by their anthropometric characteristics, especially those of the upper limbs, as well as by their palm strength in moving the wheelchair. Comparable studies conducted with basketball players without disabilities have demonstrated that palm lengths and peripheries affect palm strength. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of upper limb characteristics on palm strength, anaerobic capacity, and technical skills of wheelchair basketball players of varying classification. A total of 14 wheelchair basketball players participated in this study. Their anthropometric characteristics were measured, and a palm imprint was obtained to calculate palm lengths and peripheries. In addition, the athletes performed 8 tests of wheelchair propulsion and technical skills (5-m and 20-m sprint, lay-up, free throws, shots from four points, long pass, pass with accuracy, and dribbling). Lastly, their anaerobic power was assessed with a 30-s arm cranking test. Palm lengths and peripheries did not have any effect on the subjects’ handgrip strength and anaerobic capacity. However, right forearm length and right palm strength considerably affected the long pass. Moreover, the degree of disability was determined to affect certain skills such as the 5-m sprint, lay-up, and shots from four points. © 2020, Editura Universitatii din Pitesti. All rights reserved.