Whole-body kinematics during paddling on kayak ergometer in elite able-bodied athletes : a first step to develop a classification for para-kayak athletes

Abstract: Aim The purpose of the study was to define three dimensional range of motion for all major joints (wrist, elbow, shoulder, trunk, pelvis, hip, knee, and ankle) in a group of able-bodied elite canoeists during paddling on a kayak ergometer. An additional purpose was to analyze if the range of motion changed with increased intensity and if there were any differences between body sides during paddling on the ergometer. Method Ten elite athletes (four women and six men) volunteered for the study (22 ± 3.5 years, 78.3 ± 10.2 kg, 1.79 ± 0.06 m). Three-dimensional kinematic data was recorded using an optoelectronic system and twelve cameras were placed in a circle around the ergometer. Fifty-four reflective markers were attached on the subject and 14 body segments were defined in the model used in the analysis to evaluate range of motion for each joint. Kinematic and force data were collected during paddling on the kayak ergometer at incremental intensities starting at 50 W ("Low") and increased with 50 W until the athlete was not able to hold the predetermined level ("Submaximal"). The participants were asked to maintain each intensity level as stable as possible during at least 20 kayak cycles, i.e. approximately 60 sec during the lowest intensity level. Finally, a maximal test was performed ("Maximal"). Mean values of 10 stroke cycles were used in the statistics. Result The mean range of motion was for shoulder flexion; 3 – 101°, shoulder abduction; 9–53°, shoulder inward/outward rotation; 39–51°, elbow flexion; 13–118°, wrist palmar/dorsiflexion; 9–31°, wrist radial/ulnar deviation; 9–22°, trunk flex/extension; 8 –1°, trunk rotation left/right; 24–24, trunk lateral bending right/left; 7 – 8°, hip flexion 85-116°, knee flexion; 7–56° and foot flexion 64–91°. When intensity increased the range of motion significantly increased in peak joint angle for shoulder flexion, shoulder inward rotation, trunk- , hip-, knee- and foot flexion. In general, there were no significant differences observed between left and right side for maximal and minimal range of motion. Conclusion The results from this kinematic study can be used as adequate reference values in the development for an evidence-based classification system for para-canoeists.