Trying to use temporal and kinematic parameters for the classification in wheelchair badminton

Introduction: This study explores the potential for the temporal and kinematic datas link to propulsion technique and athlete performance collected here to contribute to evidence-based classification for wheelchair badminton athletes. Materials and methods: Nineteen experienced wheelchair badminton players underwent propulsion tests with a badminton racket. Wheelchair were equipped with inertial measurement units. The first analysis conducted involved comparing the parameters between class WH1 and WH2. Subsequently, a hierarchical clustering analysis was performed on the parameters with significant differences. Results: Regarding propulsion technique parameters, WH1 athletes exhibit a longer braking phase compared to WH2 athletes. Generally, the performance of WH1 athletes is inferior to that of WH2 athletes. Concerning hierarchical clustering analysis, the results reveal the formation of three clusters based on principal components explaining 70% of the variation in the parameters considered in the analysis. Conclusion: Thus, the results of this study indicate a longer braking time for WH1 athletes compared to WH2, along with lower overall performance. The clusters results could suggest a potential evolution of the current classification towards three distinct classes of wheelchair badminton players. However, these findings should be interpreted with caution, given that the included performance parameters can be influenced by numerous factors, potentially undermining the robustness of the clustering methodology employed. This study highlights the need to strengthen the current classification process in wheelchair badminton.