Physical performance characteristics and activity limitations of touch football players with disabilities: Preliminary study for classification framework development

Abstract

Background

All Abilities Touch Football provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to participate in organised sport. However, the sport's rapid growth, coupled with the absence of a scientifically validated framework, has presented challenges in accommodating players with varying abilities while maintaining competitive balance. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of All Abilities Touch Football players through various physical fitness tests and assess player activity limitations based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework.

Methods

Twenty-four players participated in a battery of physical assessments, including measures of flexibility, balance, coordination, strength, power, speed, change of direction speed, and endurance. Intra-subject reliability was assessed using the coefficient of variation, and physical performance measures were standardised using z-scores.

Results

The results demonstrated considerable variation in performance, even among players with the same diagnosis. Tasks with increased motor demands such as the vertical jump and modified agility test, often required multiple attempts or assistance to complete (CV: 1.7–8.6 ​%).

Conclusion

These findings provide the first analysis of the physical performance characteristics of All Abilities Touch Football players, highlighting the broad range of abilities across the player cohort. The findings highlight the need for tailored strategies to enhance participation, while providing considerations for developing a classification framework that could support the growth and development of this sport.