Technical and Tactical Models of Competitive Performance and Physical Intelligence Indicators in Para-Armwrestlers with Cerebral Palsy and Spinal Cord Injury

Purpose. The aim of the study was to identify the technical and tactical models of competitive performance of para-armwrestlers with cerebral palsy (CP) and spinal cord injury (SCI), as well as to establish the most informative indicators of physical intelligence (PQ) in these groups of athletes. Materials & Methods. The study involved 16 qualified para-armwrestlers (n=16; age 21–40 years), who were divided into two groups: CP (n=8) and SCI (n=8). The study employed a comparative observational cross-sectional design in accordance with the STROBE recommendations. Competitive activity was assessed using video analysis (320 matches). Physical intelligence (PQ) was operationalized as an integrative ability that reflects sensorimotor regulation, coordination, stabilization, and adaptive implementation of force-related actions. PQ was assessed using five tests: isometric force stability, proprioceptive control accuracy, sensorimotor response speed, strength endurance, and technical efficiency. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney test; the effect size was determined by the r coefficient. Results. Statistically significant differences were found between groups for most PQ components. Athletes with SCI demonstrated better performance in sensorimotor response speed (U=3.0; p=0.003; r=0.74) and strength endurance (U=5.0; p=0.008; r=0.67). Conversely, athletes with cerebral palsy had lower accuracy of proprioceptive control (U=4.0; p=0.005; r=0.71) and stability of isometric effort (U=6.0; p=0.012; r=0.63). No statistically significant differences in technical efficiency were found (U=16.0; p=0.226; r=0.30). Analysis of competitive activity showed different technical and tactical models: stabilizing (protective) in athletes with cerebral palsy and dynamic attacking in athletes with SCI. SCI athletes performed more attacks per match (4.1±0.9 vs. 1.6±0.5), while athletes with cerebral palsy demonstrated higher performance (72% vs. 48%). Conclusions. The findings indicate that in para-arm wrestling, physical intelligence has a specific structure. Athletes with SCI are more dependent on the manifestation of speed-strength components, while for athletes with cerebral palsy, stabilization and proprioceptive control are key. This justifies the need to individualize the training process taking into account functional limitations and confirms the feasibility of using the concept of physical intelligence as an integrative approach in adaptive sports. The obtained data have practical significance for optimizing the training of para-arm wrestlers and can be used in the development of differentiated training programs.