Strength and endurance training of an individual with left upper and lower limb amputations

Purpose:?The purpose of this article is to describe the development of a strength and endurance training programme designed to prepare an individual with a left glenohumeral disarticulation and transtibial amputation for a bike trip across the USA.

Method:?The subject was scheduled for training three times per week over a two-month period followed by two times per week for an additional two months. Training consisted of a resistance training circuit using variable resistance machines, cycling using a recumbent stationary bike, and core stability training using stability ball exercises. Changes in strength were assessed using 10 RM tests on the resistance machines and changes in peak VO₂ were monitored utilizing the Cosmed K4b²® pulmonary function tester.

Results:?The subject demonstrated a 30.3% gain in peak VO₂. The subject's 10 RM for left single limb leg press increased 36.8% and gains of at least 7.7% were seen for all other muscle groups tested.

Conclusion:?The strength and endurance training programme adapted to compensate for this subject's limb losses was effective in increasing both strength and peak VO₂. Adapting exercise programmes to compensate for limb loss may allow individuals with amputations to participate in physically challenging activities that otherwise may not be available to them.