Reproducibility of the Adapted Leger and Boucher Test for wheelchair-dependent athletes.

STUDY DESIGN

This study analyzed the reproducibility of a field test. In a previous study, we showed that this test, the Adapted Leger and Boucher Test (ALBT), was progressive and maximal. The Leger and Boucher predictive equation for able-bodied subjects was not accurate for WD athletes, however, and a new predictive equation is needed.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the reproducibility of an adapted incremental field test for wheelchair-dependent (WD) athletes.

SETTING

France at Montpellier.

METHODS

The proposed protocol was conducted on a 400 m track. Eight male paraplegics (mean age: 30.8+/-5.1 years) performed the test three times in the same conditions, ie same time of day, same wheelchair, same material. Maximal heart rate (HRmax) and maximal speed (Smax) were measured.

RESULTS

We found no significant differences (P>0.05) between tests for either variable. The Bland and Altman graphic analyses showed a good reproducibility for both variables. Lastly, the reproducibility coefficients of HRmax and Smax were very low (2% and 1%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The ALBT is reproducible concerning measurements of HRmax and Smax. A valid predictive equation of maximal oxygen uptake from the Smax is now needed for WD athletes during this field test.