Paralympic Cycling - Advanced Training Information

To compete at a high level in the sport of hand-cycling, you must be given a classification.  There are a number of different classifications within each disability.  Classifications are important as they level out the playing field between those with lower and higher disabilities.

CLASSIFICATIONS

SPINAL CORD INJURIES

HCA
This classification is fore those who are more severely disabled, with a complete loss of trunk and lower limbs.  These athletes also have a limited handgrip and thermoregulation limitations.

HCB
This classification is athletes with a complete loss of lower limb function and limited trunk stability.

HCC
This classification is athletes with a loss of function in their lower limbs or a lower limb loss.  Conventional cycling is not viable in this classification.

AMBULATORY (LOCOMOTER)

LCI
This class is essentially for athletes with either upper or minor lower limb disabilities.
  
LC2
This class is for athletes with disabilities in one leg, but who are able to pedal using 2 legs.  Prosthetics can be used, but are not necessary.
  
LC3
This class is for athletes with lower limb disability, with or with upper disability.  These athletes generally pedal with one leg.
  
LC4
This class if for athletes with severe disabilities.  Usually both lower limbs are impaired, with or without upper limb disability.
  

CEREBRAL PALSY
 
CPI and CP2
This class if for the most severely disabled athletes.
 
CP3
This class of athletes may ride a tricycle, but usually ride bicycles.
 
CP4
This class is for minimally disabled athletes.

VISUALLY IMPAIRED

<6/60 vision
Visual field < 20 degrees
No light perception