Manon A. T. Bloemen , Janke F. de Groot , Frank J. G. Backx, Rosalyne A. Westerveld , Tim Takken
HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, Bolognalaan 101, NL-3584 CJ Utrecht, The Netherlands. E-mail: manon.bloemen@hu.nl
DOI: 10.2340/16501977-1944

Objective: To determine the best test performance and feasibility using a Graded Arm Cranking Test vs a Graded Wheelchair Propulsion Test in young people with spina bifida who use a wheelchair, and to determine the reliability of the best test.
Design: Validity and reliability study.
Subjects: Young people with spina bifida who use a wheelchair.
Methods: Physiological responses were measured during a Graded Arm Cranking Test and a Graded Wheelchair Propulsion Test using a heart rate monitor and calibrated mobile gas analysis system (Cortex Metamax). For validity, peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and peak heart rate (HRpeak) were compared using paired t-tests. For reliability, the intra-class correlation coefficients, standard error of measurement, and standard detectable change were calculated.
Results: VO2peak and HRpeak were higher during wheelchair propulsion compared with arm cranking (23. 1 vs 19. 5 ml/kg/min, p = 0. 11; 165 vs 150 beats/min, p < 0. 05). Reliability of wheelchair propulsion showed high intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) for both VO2peak (ICC = 0. 93) and HRpeak (ICC = 0. 90).
Conclusion: This pilot study shows higher HRpeak and a tendency to higher VO2peak in young people with spina bifida who are using a wheelchair when tested during wheelchair propulsion compared with arm cranking. Wheelchair propulsion showed good reliability. We recommend performing a wheelchair propulsion test for aerobic fitness testing in this population.