Introduction:
From the Paralympics in the 1960s to the 2020 Games wheelchair sports have seen a surge in participation. Athletes heavily rely on their upper extremities and trunks for strength and power, yet optimizing these aspects, particularly in terms of sprint efficiency, remains a gap. Plyometric training, known for enhancing power, is underutilized in wheelchair athlete programs. This study investigates upper extremity plyometrics’ impact on wheelchair athletes’ fitness and balance, addressing the gap.

Aim of the study:
To evaluate the effect of upper extremity plyometrics in wheelchair athletes by evaluating their fitness components and balance.

Material and methods:
Data for this experimental study was collected from wheelchair athletes aged 18-45 from various locations, with a sample size of 22 subjects determined by using purposive sampling. Tools included a stopwatch, a dynamometer, cones, and tape. Inclusion criteria were two years of experience, excluding certain health conditions. The study, approved by the Institutional Ethical Committee, evaluated upper extremity plyometrics’ effects on athletes’ fitness and balance.

Results:
The plyometric training program led to significant improvements in all five parameters in 22 elite wheelchair athletes (p < 0.001). The participants, with a mean age of 30.5 ± 4.31 years, of whom 59.1% were male and 41% were female, showed notable gains. Handgrip strength increased in both hands, and medicine ball throw distances extended significantly. A biceps curl-up test showed a significant increase in curl-ups. Sprint times improved, and trunk balance enhanced in forward, bilateral, and lateral reaches. These results were statistically validated by a paired t-test [t(21) = 21.0, p < 0.001], confirming the program’s effectiveness.

Conclusions:
The study indicates that a 4-week upper extremity plyometric intervention significantly boosts wheelchair athletes’ fitness and trunk balance, enhancing overall performance and potentially sustaining sports participation. The recommendation is to incorporate upper body plyometrics into wheelchair athletes’ routines to enhance performance and prevent injuries, focusing on strength, power, and balance. Further research is needed to explore long-term effects and optimal implementation strategies.