Wheelchair fencing classification

In wheelchair fencing, the purpose of classification is to insure that fencers are classified based on equitable functional mobility.This is done so that their training, skill level, talent and experience determine the outcome of a match, not their disability type.

[5] Lower leg amputation competitors are allowed to participate in wheelchair sport following classification rules for them based on functional mobility.

[8] During the 1980s, there was a move away from a medical classification system to a functional one, with ISMWSF being one of the organizations driving this change on the wheelchair sport side.

[10] Because of issues in objectively identifying functionality that plagued the post Barcelona Games, the IPC unveiled plans to develop a new classification system in 2003.

This classification system went into effect in 2007, and defined ten different disability types that were eligible to participate on the Paralympic level.

[10] Going forward, disability sport's major classification body, the International Paralympic Committee, is working on improving classification to be more of an evidence-based system as opposed to a performance-based system so as not to punish elite athletes whose performance makes them appear in a higher class alongside competitors who train less.

[11] Only wheelchair classified athletes were eligible to compete at the 1960 Summer Paralympics in Rome in this sport.

This policy was put into place in 2014, with the goal of avoiding last minute changes in classes that would negatively impact athlete training preparations.

All competitors needed to be internationally classified with their classification status confirmed prior to the Games, with exceptions to this policy being dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

[17][18][19] Using the Adapted Research Council (MRC) measurements, muscle strength is tested using the bench press for a variety of spinal cord related injuries with a muscle being assessed on a scale of 1 to 5 for people with cerebral.

The sixth test measures the trunk extension involving the lumbar and dorsal muscles while leaning forward at a 45-degree angle.