Purpose: This study was aimed to investigate the relationship between athletic performance and physiological characteristics in wheelchair basketball (WB) athletes with different classification scores. Methods: Twenty-six (24 male and 2 female) WB athletes were involved into the study. The participants were divided into two functional categories (Category A:1.0-2.5 points, category B: 3.0-4.5 points) according to the IWBF rules. Shoulder internal (IR) and external rotation (ER) muscle strengths were evaluated with the ISOMED 2000® isokinetic dynamometer. Handgrip strength was evaluated with hydraulic hand dynamometer. Custom ramp protocol on treadmill was employed to measure aerobic capacity. Anaerobic capacity was evaluated with Wingate anaerobic power test in standard laboratory conditions. The athletic performance was assessed by 20 m Sprint test, Slalom Test, and Zone Shot tests. Results: Category B athletes achieved significantly better results in the measurements of shoulder IR and ER muscle strength, aerobic and anaerobic capacity, and athletic performance while the grip strength was found similar in the categories. There was a significant correlation between the athletic performance and shoulder IR and ER muscle strength, and aerobic and anaerobic capacities in two categories. There was no significant relationship between grip strength and athletic performance parameters in two categories. Conclusion: It was concluded that athletic performance in WB athletes with different classification scores is related to upper extremity muscle strength, aerobic, and anaerobic capacity. Additionally, upper limb muscle strength, athletic performance, aerobic and anaerobic capacity assessments to be made will contribute positively to the planning of individual training and exercise programs.
Keywords: Aerobic capacity; athletic performance; isokinetic muscle strength; wheelchair basketball.