Field testing: Assessment of physical fitness of disabled adults

The objectives of this investigation were (i) to develop simple field-test procedures for examining the cardio-respiratory and muscular strength fitness of lower-limb disabled individuals and (ii) to compare fitness levels across disabilities and physical activity levels. Forty-nine disabled adults (42 males and 7 females) were classified according to (i) functional and/or muscular deficit and, (ii) level of habitual physical activity. A forearm ergometer test was used to determine peak oxygen intake ( \(\dot V\) O₂ peak). Sex-specific regression equations developed from the direct test were used in conjunction with a modified åstrand-Ryhming equation to predict \(\dot V\) O₂ peak from sub-maximal test results. Likewise, an equation was developed to predict isokinetic upper body strength (UBS) from cable tensiometry and hand grip force. The predictive power of the sub-maximal ergometer test was fair (r=0.67), while the isometric strength measurements were relatively effective in predicting isokinetic total UBS (r=0.82). Class 1 differed significantly from all other classes with respect to \(\dot V\) O₂ peak and UBS. The more active individuals also achieved significantly higher scores (p<0.05) for both variables. This study shows that an estimate of peak oxygen intake and UBS can be obtained from simple field tests and that active disabled individuals are more fit than their inactive counterparts.