Sport participation after the HandbikeBattle: beneﬁts, barriers, facilitators from the event—a follow-up survey

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2020 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-020-0301-x · Published: June 15, 2020

Spinal Cord Injury Participation Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study looks at how taking part in a handcycling event called the HandbikeBattle affects people with disabilities in the long run. It examines whether they continue to participate in sports, what helps them stay active, and what obstacles they face. The study found that many participants experienced positive effects, such as improved fitness and personal growth. However, some still faced challenges like lack of time or transportation issues that made it difficult to stay active in sports. Overall, the study suggests that challenging sports events like the HandbikeBattle can play a significant role in helping people with disabilities maintain an active lifestyle.

Study Duration

1.5–5.5 years

Participants

96 participants (59 with SCI or Spina Bifida)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Most respondents reported benefits from participating in the HandbikeBattle regarding their fitness level, personal development, daily life activities, and health.
2
The median current sport participation was 5 hours per week.
3
The most frequently indicated personal barriers for sports participation were: lack of time, disability, and pain.

Research Summary

The majority of the responders to this study reported beneﬁts of participation in the HandbikeBattle project. Most were still active in sports 1.5–5.5 years after their ﬁrst participation in the event, although their sports participation after the event was similar to before. The most important personal barrier and facilitator for sport participation were time and health/condition improvement, respectively.

Practical Implications

Promote Sports Challenges

Sports challenges can establish a sustainable active lifestyle among people with disabilities.

Address Barriers

Address personal barriers like time constraints and disability-related limitations to improve sport participation.

Foster Motivation

Emphasize health benefits, fun, and social aspects to motivate people with disabilities to participate in sports.

Study Limitations

1
The results of this study cannot be generalized to the whole population with a disability.
2
There might have been a recall bias that could have an effect on the results.
3
There were some missing values regarding sport participation at the time of the medical screening.

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