Effect of a High-Rolling-Resistance Training Method on the Success Rate and Time Required to Learn the Wheelchair Wheelie Skill

• DOI: 10.1097/phm.0b013e318164aa27
• Publication Date: 2009-03-05T14:34:16Z
• Authors: R Lee Kirby; D Jason Gillis; Alison L. Boudreau; Cher Smith; Paula Rushton; Lauren Clark-Gallant; Kim E. Parker; Adam Webber
• Keywords: Manual wheelchair

Kirby RL, Gillis DJ, Boudreau AL, Smith C, Rushton P, Clark-Gallant L, Parker KE, Webber A: Effect of a high-rolling-resistance training method on the success rate and time required to learn wheelchair wheelie skill: randomized controlled trial. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2008;87:204–211. Objective: The primary objective this study was test hypotheses that begins in (RR) setting (1) improves (2) reduces time. Our secondary objectives were assess effects other factors (e.g., age, gender) acquire data perceptions participants would assist us refining our methods. Design: Randomized including 48 able-bodied with no significant experience. Each participant taught skill, using up five sessions. Participants conventional group did all their smooth, level, tile surface. RR began high-RR (rear wheels initially prevented from moving at all, progressing being 12-cm-thick foam permitted some movement) before Outcome measures (%), (mins) achieve competence (defined as ability perform two consecutive 30-sec wheelies within 1.5-m-diameter circle, assessed least 2 days after training), questionnaire. Results: rates for those groups 96% 100%, respectively (P = 1.000). mean (±SD) times 55.9 mins (±27.1) 51.8 (±18.7) 0.549). Training not significantly affected by trainer or but it sex, women requiring an average 21.4 more than men 0.002). Perceptions both about positive. Of group, 14 (74%) perceived technique “very effective,” (26%) “moderately effective.” Conclusions: Neither nor skill acquisition learners are improved high RR. Women require men. Learners perceive be effective. These results have implications practices.