Acquiring a tailor-made tricycle: Implications for people with disabilities

BACKGROUND: People with physical disabilities are far less active than recommended, but many are motivated for cycling on a tailor-made tricycle. OBJECTIVE: Does the acquisition of an adapted tricycle lead to better cycling outcomes, and are there differences associated with the application procedure? METHODS: An observational study was conducted with cohorts of participants applying for an adapted leg-driven tricycle via rehabilitation centres or local therapists. Questionnaires were answered electronically before applying and after having had the opportunity to use the new tricycle for at least 3 weeks. Non-parametric analyses were conducted in SPSS. RESULTS: Fifty participants (54% women) aged 5–79 years (M = 31.5) with diverse disabilities responded. Forty-seven participants (94%) used their tricycle. Results showed a significant positive change in cycling frequency, cycling performance and satisfaction with cycling (p< 0.01). The group of participants who applied at a Healthsports Centre reported higher performance and satisfaction with cycling both after testing them (pre-test) and after having used their new tricycles for some weeks (post-test). CONCLUSIONS: Acquisition of an adapted tricycle led to a higher amount of cycling, better cycling performance and higher satisfaction with cycling. The highest scores were seen among those who apply via a Healthsports Centre.