Strength Training With Eccentric Arm-cranking in Para-athletes

At the beginning, the study design includes a familiarisation appointment with performance tests and training on the eccentric arm-crank device (KREHA). At least one week later, the first test sequence including a maximum strength test (bench press) and a test to determine the anaerobic performance (Wingate test) is conducted. The second test sequence takes place one to three days later. This includes a handgrip strength test, an aerobic endurance test (ramp test on the arm crank ergometer with ergospirometry) and a further familiarisation training on the KREHA. The training phase starts within two weeks after the pre-tests have been completed. There are two to a maximum of three trainings per week. These take 30 to 45 minutes and take place on the KREHA device under the supervision of the study staff. The training phase lasts a maximum of twelve weeks (20 training sessions). The first test sequence is repeated five to eight days after the last workout. The second test sequence takes place at the same time interval as in the pre-tests.

Inclusion criteria

• male or female with traumatic or disease-related SCI
• age between 18 and 50 years
• experience in strength training
• Squad status or at least 4h per week training
• Biceps/triceps function
• healthy(study physician)
• adequately informed and confirmed per signature

Exclusion criteria

• findings during anamnesis of study physician
• pregnancy