Match analysis of wheelchair padel players of different functional level

Abstract

The aim of this study was to quantify the kinematic demands of wheelchair padel and to examine the activity profiles in professional players according to their functional level. Twenty-two elite players classified in functional level groups (from 1 to 4) were video-analysed with a two-dimensional DLT corrected video system across seven matches of a professional tournament. The results showed players covered 729.6 ± 369.9 meters and 238.45 ± 129.45 turns per match during 1128.9 ± 583.04 second of effective playing time at a mean speed of 0.53 ± 0.49 m/s per rally. The WCP players’ functional classification had heavy influence on their activity profiles during matches, with a large association with time spent in speed zones. However, WCP players spent most of the effective playing time in low and very low speed zones, regardless of functional groups. The players ranking, playing experience, years in daily ambulation and wheelchair manoeuvrability seemed to be other key determinants in wheelchair padel performance.