ABSTRACT

Many research studies have been conducted on the benefits of exercise and participation in sporting events and the Center for Disease Control has established guidelines for activity levels. However, people with disabilities are less likely to engage in regular moderate exercise. Data from 28 wheelchair basketball players were collected to quantify the level of activity athletes reach during a wheelchair basketball game. Individuals who participate in organized wheelchair basketball traveled significantly farther and played longer than individuals who do not participate in organized basketball. The majority of athletes meet recommended activity time during a wheelchair basketball game. As a result, wheelchair basketball may serve as a method to reach the desired activity levels to obtain the benefits of exercise.