Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: Introduction: Paralympic throwing events have grown rapidly, yet the scientific evidence guiding technique, training and classification remains fragmented across biomechanics, physiology and psychosocial domains. Objective: To provide an evidence-based overview of adapted throws by comprehensively examining the peer-reviewed literature. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (inception-Feb 2025) using the terms Paralympic OR adapted OR disability AND throw AND (shot OR discus OR javelin OR club). Inclusion criteria comprised: (i) Athletes with physical impairments who participate in Para Athletics throwing events, (ii) Non-disabled individuals studied in research explicitly designed to inform or understand Para Athletics throwing techniques. Data were synthesized narratively and clustered by study theme. Results: in F52-F55 shot put) and optimal angles (27.5°-37°) as key performance determinants. Assistive devices improved results by 8% in F32 athletes. Significant research gaps exist for visual impairment (F11-F13), intellectual impairment (F20), and prosthesis-user classes (F61-F64). Conclusion: While class-specific technical models are emerging, particularly for seated throwers, 38% of throwing classifications lack published research. Future studies should prioritize underrepresented classes and develop standardized assessment protocols.
Institutions: Catholic University of the Maule, Universidad de Los Lagos, Corporación Universitaria Autónoma del Cauca, University of Cauca, University of the Americas, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Universidad Santo Tomás, Universidad Andrés Bello, Universidad Espíritu Santo, Florida Gulf Coast University
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,353
Funder: Universidad de Los Lagos
OpenAlex ID: W4415434435