Effects of a handrail on performance of the attack in wheelchair fencing--difference in height improves movement speed and movement distance

Abstract

We aimed to determine the effects of a handrail on reaching distance, moving speed, acceleration, and the time to reach maximum speed during an attack in wheelchair fencing. We enrolled five healthy students and observed their attacks under three conditions : no railing, low railing, and high railing. The performance was photographed and analyzed using a three-dimensional motion analysis device. There was no significant difference in the maximum distance traveled during an attack under the three conditions. Speed and acceleration were significantly faster with the railing. Similarly, the time to reach maximum speed was significantly shorter with the railing. The difference in heights of the handrail did not affect the performance in any item. The handrail increased the speed and shortened the time to reach maximum speed. The handrail is important in wheelchair fencing, which requires quick movements and turnovers with attacks and defenses.