Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
Department of Health and Sport Medicine, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
2
Sport injuries and corrective Exercises, Department of health and sport Medicine, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
3
Associate Professor, sport injuries and corrective Exercises, Department of health and sport Medicine, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
4
sport injuries and corrective Exercises, Department of health and sport Medicine, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
10.22084/rsr.2025.30420.1760
Abstract
Background and Aim: Successful performance in wheelchair basketball requires the strength of the shoulder muscles, anaerobic power, and proper body composition. However, no study has compared these characteristics in different positions of players in wheelchair basketball (WB). This study aimed to compare the body composition, isokinetic strength, and anaerobic power components among the forwards and guards.
Methods: The study participants comprised 14 adult Iranian national wheelchair basketball team players, who were split into two groups of seven players each: guards and forwards. This research included evaluations involving the measurement of body composition, anaerobic power, and isokinetic power of the upper limbs, specifically the shoulder and elbow joints. The differences between groups were investigated using an independent t-test, conducted at a significance threshold of P<0.05. Statistical analysis was carried out with the use of SPSS 26 software.
Results: The findings showed that there were no significant differences in the variables of fat-free mas and fat mass between the forwards and guards. However, the forwards had a higher mean fat-free mass and a lower fat mass. Also, no significant difference was observed in the peak power and power drop (anaerobic component) of the players. In terms of peak torque, no substantial differences were found between forwards and guards in rotator muscles of the shoulder and elbow flexor and extensor muscles; nevertheless, guards exhibited greater means in all strength-related components compared to forwards.
Conclusion: The study found that the physical attributes and physiological demands of wheelchair basketball players are primarily determined by the playing environment and the type of impairment the player has, rather than by the specific skills required for each position. Therefore, future research should focus on comparing classes with players with mild to severe disabilities.
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