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Objective. The purpose of this study was to compare aerobic parameters in the multistage field test (MFT) in hand rim wheelchair propulsion and lever wheelchair propulsion.

Methods. Twenty-one men performed MFT using two different types of propulsion, i.e., lever and hand rim wheelchair propulsion. The covered distance and physiological variables (oxygen uptake (VO₂), minute ventilation (VE), carbon dioxide output (VCO₂), respiratory coefficient (RQ), and heart rate (HR)) were observed. Physiological variables were measured with Cosmed K5 system. Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, t-test, Wilcoxon test and effect sizes (ESs) were used to assess differences. Statistical significance was set at p < .05.

Results. A significantly longer distance was observed in lever wheelchair propulsion than in hand rim wheelchair propulsion (1,194 and 649 m, respectively). VO_2max and RQ were higher in hand rim wheelchair …