Reproducibility of the adapted leger and boucher test for wheelchair-dependent athletes

Abstract

Study design: This study analyzed the reproducibility of a field test. In a previous study, we showed that this test, the Adapted Leger and Boucher Test (ALBT), was progressive and maximal. The Leger and Boucher predictive equation for able-bodied subjects was not accurate for WD athletes, however, and a new predictive equation is needed. Objectives: To determine the reproducibility of an adapted incremental field test for wheelchair-dependent (WD) athletes. Setting: France at Montpellier. Methods: The proposed protocol was conducted on a 400 m track. Eight male paraplegics (mean age: 30.8 ± 5.1 years) performed the test three times in the same conditions, ie same time of day, same wheelchair, same material. Maximal heart rate (HRmax) and maximal speed (Smax) were measured. Results: We found no significant differences (P > 0.05) between tests for either variable. The Bland and Altman graphic analyses showed a good reproducibility for both variables. Lastly, the reproducibility coefficients of HRmax and Smax were very low (2% and 1%, respectively). Conclusion: The ALBT is reproducible concerning measurements of HRmax and Smax. A valid predictive equation of maximal oxygen uptake from the Smax is now needed for WD athletes during this field test.