Training prescriptions and perspectives in elite wheelchair racing: A survey of Brazilian athletes and coaches

Brazil has emerged as a Paralympic powerhouse since 2008, consistently ranking among the top ten countries in the medal standings; however, this success has not translated to wheelchair racing (WR) events. In addition, data regarding WR practices and barriers remain scarce. To help to understand this controversy, this study investigates current practices and perspectives on Strength and Conditioning (S&C) in elite Brazilian WR. A cross-sectional survey evaluated 28 Para athletes (age: 28.7 ± 11.6; 21 males, 7 females) and 16 coaches (age: 40.1 ± 11.2; 14 males, 2 females). Results indicated a significant educational disparity: all coaches held university degrees, whereas only 25% of Para athletes did. Coaches reported severe role overload, managing technical training, S&C, and equipment maintenance simultaneously. For exercise selection, the Bench Press emerged as the primary consensus for strength training. Power development perspectives diverged: coaches prioritized ballistic exercises (n = 16; 100%), whereas Para athletes focused on sprint drills (n = 11; 39%). The most frequently applied methods for monitoring training load and intensity were Rate of Perceived Exertion (n = 11; 69%) and session duration (n = 11; 69%). Regarding current challenges, Para athletes (n = 7; 25%) and coaches (n = 8; 50%) identified structural constraints as primary barriers. However, future perspectives diverged significantly: Para athletes prioritized fundamental accessibility (n = 12; 43%), whereas coaches shifted focus toward integrating Artificial Intelligence and sensors (n = 5; 31%). Future studies should develop accessible monitoring tools to support coaches and Para athletes, while sports stakeholders must strengthen and expand the foundational training infrastructure for Brazilian wheelchair racing.