Initial Maximum Push-Rim Propulsion Test: From Assessment to Performance Enhancement Through Targeted Training in Wheelchair Court Sports

The increasing prominence of adapted sports is driving the evolution of performance optimization in Paralympic athletes, particularly in wheelchair court sports such as basketball and rugby. The Initial Maximum Push-Rim Propulsion (IMPRP) test has emerged as an effective tool for assessing mechanical performance, providing critical insights into key parameters such as initial propulsion force, acceleration, and overall power. This article delves into the mechanics of the IMPRP test, its reliability, and the preliminary normative data, highlighting its relevance across various functional classifications. Early findings reveal strong correlations between IMPRP outputs and sprint performance, suggesting the test's potential to predict in-game performance. However, the lack of comprehensive normative data and the need for further understanding of game-induced fatigue on IMPRP outcomes represent existing challenges. In addition, the article introduces a structured training program designed to enhance IMPRP performance, targeting both general strength and sport-specific propulsion techniques. The program is adapted according to an athlete's functional classification, ensuring personalized interventions. Future research should focus on expanding normative data, addressing fatigue dynamics, and refining training strategies, ultimately enhancing the IMPRP test's application in training programs and performance assessments, thereby contributing to the continued advancement of wheelchair sports.