Redefining the Classification System for Paralympic Swimmers
What is Classification?
The term “classification” in Paralympic sports refers to the process of evaluating athletes to determine their level of impairment and performance potential, with the goal of designing an equitable competitive environment. There are different classification systems for each sport and for different types of impairments, including physical impairments, intellectual impairments, and visual impairments. The classification process aims to ensure that no athlete is advantaged or disadvantaged by their impairment when competing.
Classification Today
Classification is a complex and often contentious topic. In Para swimming, athletes with physical impairments are classified on a scale from S1-S10, where S1 is the highest degree of impairment and S10 is the lowest. In this system, components of coordination and strength are measured and then aggregated to produce a single “S-class”.
As an example of this process, and athlete performing a coordination assessment is asked to go through a series of limb movements. The movements get progressively faster, and a classifier with clinical experience evaluates each movement on a scale of 0-5. As scoring is based on the classifier’s individual interpretation of the athlete’s movements, the process is subjective and susceptible to inconsistency. The current system for classifying Para swimmers has seen little change in 30 years and relies heavily on expert judgement rather than scientific research.
Another challenge to the integrity of the classification process is intentional misrepresentation, which occurs when an athlete deliberately underperforms during the classification process with the aim of being assigned to a lower S-class. Within the current system, it is virtually impossible to detect intentional misrepresentation.
As a result, the classification process is considered by some to be inconsistent, unfair, and unscientific.
Using EMG to Assess Physical Impairments
In response to these critiques, researchers led by Prof. Carl Payton at Manchester Metropolitan University and Dr. Emma Beckman at Queensland University are using electromyography (EMG) to contribute to the development of a more scientific, evidence-based classification system. This research uses Trigno EMG equipment, which the researchers received as a result of winning the Rethink EMG Challenge by the De Luca Foundation.
One of the big elements of this research – and this is where the EMG added a really nice element – is trying to develop tests of strength and coordination that are specific to the classification process that are far more objective, reliable, valid, and reliable. So, wherever the athlete goes in the world to be classified, it will be done the same and they’re likely to get the same outcome.
Prof. Carl Payton, Manchester Metropolitan University
The focus of this research is on physical impairments in para swimmers, and the main aim is to develop tests of strength and coordination that are more valid, appropriate, and objective for classification. This can be split further into two phases: first, to develop assessments for classification and second, to understand what is happening at the muscular level during these assessments. Electromyography unlocks the ability to examine muscular activity, providing the key to the second phase of this research.
Redefining the Classification System for Paralympic Swimmers
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