Wheelchair Sports in the Spotlight – Handcycling
Published: March 20, 2014
Handcycling is one of the most popular forms of wheelchair and ambulatory sports. Combining the thrill of bicycling with the functionality of a wheelchair, it can be taken up purely as a hobby or for competitive purposes. And as with all wheelchair sports, it's a terrific way to stay active, develop lasting friendships, and have fun! If you've been thinking of taking up a wheelchair hobby, consider handcycling – we think you'll like it.
What Is a Handcycle?
A handcycle is similar to a bicycle, in that it has a drive wheel that is powered through the operation of a gear. However, unlike a bicycle or tricycle, a handcycle's gear is powered by the user's arms, not the legs. This makes it possible for individuals with lower-body disabilities to operate.
Most handcycles are three-wheeled, so that balance isn't an issue. This is particularly useful for individuals with lower-body paralysis or mobility impairment, as they are unable to support a bicycle at rest. A three-wheeled handcycle solves that problem.
The most common type of handcycle is the fork steer variety, which works well for individuals with high or low-level spinal cord injuries. Most of these cycles have movable footrests, seat angles and gearing options. They also can be purchased to suit a variety of needs – racing, leisure or even off-road use.
Tournaments and Competition
In the United States, handcycling competitions are governed by the U.S. Handcycling Federation. With regional and national tournaments, there's sure to be an event near you. In fact, events have been hosted in places as far and wide as Florida, California and Alaska. If you would like to compete in a USHF event, simply become a member. Lifetime, individual and team memberships are available. The various sporting classifications include:
- NEW – All new riders who have not yet been classified by an international classification panel compete in this class.
- REVIEW – If an athlete has previously been classified by an international panel but is still under review, he or she will compete in this class.
- CONFIRMED – This class is for individuals who have previously been classified by an international sporting panel and whose class is unchanged.
- NOT ELIGIBLE – In some cases, an athlete may be ineligible to compete in an USHF competition. In such cases, he or she will be deemed "Not Eligible."
- RE-EVALUATION – If an athlete has been deemed ineligible for an event but would like to petition the panel's ruling, he or she can do so by way of a 2nd classification panel. The decision of this second panel is final, however.
Once you become a member, you can determine what class you will be competing in. If you're new to the sport, you'll compete in the NEW category, in either the men's or women's class. The divisions of handcycling are as follows:
- H1 – Tetraplegia C6 or above
- H2 – Paraplegia with impairments corresponding to a complete lesion from Th1 to Th3
- H3 – Paraplegia with impairments corresponding to a complete lesion from Th11 or below (Recumbent riding position)
- H4 – Paraplegia with impairments corresponding to a complete lesion from Th11 or below (Kneeling riding position)
If you have any questions on which division is right for you – for example, you're a paraplegic but don't know what riding position best suits you – your local USHF representative can help answer these questions. Of course, you don't need to be a member to enjoy the sport. Buy a handcycle today and start riding! Your only limitations are the ones that you put on yourself!
Get Involved Today
Staying active is incredibly important for individuals with mobility impairments. If you are disabled and utilize a power wheelchair to get around, consider taking up handcycling. You can meet new people, stay fit, and have fun doing it!
