ON THE COVER

  The Wheelchair Aerobic Fitness Trainer (WAFT) is a computer-controlled wheelchair ergometer used for the evaluation, rehabilitation, and development of cardiorespiratory fitness for persons with lower limb disabilities. The design uses electronic particle braking incorporated in the ergometer to provide a reliable method of creating variable power output for graded exercise training and aerobic conditioning. The WAFT is a wheelchair exercise device designed to accomodate the user's own wheelchair. The WAFT user backs onto the inclined frame, where the wheelchair is secured on computer-controlled rollers. Computer-controlled brakes produce resistance when the user pushes the wheelchair wheel during the workout. Wheelchair push speed is measured and physical work determined for each exercise stage. Data are recorded and stored by a computer with customized software. The WAFT is the result of research and development (R&D) under the sponsorship of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Rehabilitation (Rehab) R&D Service, Baltimore, MD, John W. Goldschmidt, MD, Director.

THE EDITOR

  Cover design and production by Frank Vanni, Scientific and Technical Publications Section, Rehabilitation Research and Development Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, Baltimore, MD.

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