The effect of cadence-based training on time trial performance in elite wheelchair-racing athletes: A pilot study

This pilot study examined the impact of a cadence-based training intervention on 3-kilometer time trial performance among elite wheelchair-racing athletes. Based on insights from cycling science, we hypothesized that training at imposed cadences, ranging from very low to very high, would enhance performance outcomes in this population. This pilot study examined the impact of a cadence-based training intervention on 3-kilometer time trial performance among elite wheelchair-racing athletes. Based on insights from cycling science, we hypothesized that training at imposed cadences—ranging from very low to very high—would enhance 3-kilometer time trial performance among competitive wheelchair-racing athletes. Twelve elite wheelchair racers (6 men, 6 women; ages 18–35) completed a 21-day cadence-focused training program using wearable sensor sleeves and metronome cues to maintain individualized cadence zones during indoor roller workouts. Pre- and post-intervention 3-km time trials on a stationary roller dynamometer were conducted to measure performance changes. After the intervention, athletes' 3-km completion times significantly improved (mean improvement ≈16 s, p < .05), while their freely chosen cadence showed no significant change. Based on these results, we hypothesize that performance gains were achieved through improved propulsion efficiency and force application rather than participants altering their freely chosen cadence. These preliminary findings highlight the value of evidence-based cadence training and innovative wearable feedback tools as a potential method to enhance competitive wheelchair racing performance.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Kinesiology

Grantor

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2025

Author dc:creator

• Koester, Annika Marie

Contributors dc:contributor

• Rice, Laura A

• Cadence-Based Training
• Wheelchair Racing Performance

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2025 Annika Koester

Language dc:language

en, eng

Handle dc:identifier

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/129589

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/oai-pmh?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=etdms&identifier=oai%3Awww.ideals.illinois.edu%3A2142%2F129589