Honda Motor Co., Ltd. unveiled a revolutionary new push power measurement system for racing wheelchairs in TOKYO, Japan. marking a significant advancement in athlete performance analysis. This world-first technology enables precise tracking of the power athletes use to self-propel their racing wheelchairs, providing critical data to enhance training and optimize performance.
The system will be publicly showcased at the upcoming 43rd Oita International Wheelchair Marathon, to be held in Oita Prefecture, Japan, on November 17. It is the world’s first international wheelchair-only marathon, an event Honda has been sponsoring for 35 years where top athletes will experience this revolutionary tool firsthand.
More than 200 athletes, including approximately 50 from outside Japan, compete every year, making it one of the world’s most prestigious wheelchair-only marathon events where the world’s top athletes compete against each other.
A Leap Forward in Wheelchair Athletics: Enhancing Performance with Data
This innovative push power measurement system is a game-changer for athletes, offering a comprehensive, data-driven approach to performance analysis. By attaching to the racing wheelchair, the system measures vital performance metrics such as power output, balance between left and right wheels, acceleration, deceleration, and peak speed. For the first time, athletes and coaches will have access to precise, quantifiable data that was once only available through subjective observation, empowering them to refine techniques and push the limits of their abilities.
Demonstrates potential in athlete testing
Honda partnered with the University of Illinois (USA), which is home to many wheelchair athletics medalists, along with several Japanese athletic organizations and athletes, including the Japan Institute of Sports Sciences (JISS), to test the system.
Honda intends to continue refining the system and providing it to organizations and schools that support wheelchair athletes. Additionally, the company plans to expand access to the system for athletes across Japan and worldwide.
In a press release, Honda expressed, “Driven by its vision to increase the number of individuals engaging in sports activities and to enhance the enjoyment of life for all, Honda will continue to support athletes as they pursue their dreams.”
Supporting Global Athletes in Their Quest for Excellence
In line with its core belief of “Respect for the Individual,” Honda has been at the forefront of supporting athletes with disabilities since 2000. The introduction of this measurement system is just the latest step in the company’s ongoing commitment to improving wheelchair racing. In addition to providing cutting-edge technology, Honda is making the system available to athletes and organizations worldwide, furthering its mission to support wheelchair athletics on a global scale.
A Step Toward Greater Mobility and Performance
Honda’s push power measurement system uses advanced 6-axis force sensor technology, developed from its extensive research into robotics, including the ASIMO humanoid robot and walking assist devices. With successful tests already conducted with over 30 athletes in collaboration with prestigious institutions like the University of Illinois and Japan’s Institute of Sports Sciences, this system has already gained positive feedback and promises to help athletes achieve their full potential.
Honda’s History in Wheelchair Athletics
- 1978: Honda founder Soichiro Honda visited Japan Sun Industries in Oita Prefecture and met Dr. Yutaka Nakamura, M.D., sparking Honda’s involvement in wheelchair athletics.
- 1981: Inspired by Dr. Nakamura’s work, Honda established Honda Sun Co., Ltd.
- 1993: The Racing Wheelchair Study Group was formed by Honda Sun associates to develop racing wheelchairs.
- 2000: Honda R&D began officially researching and developing racing wheelchairs.
- 2002: Honda Sun produced the world’s first full carbon-body racing wheelchair, with support from Honda R&D.
- 2013: Honda R&D Sun, Honda R&D, and Yachiyo Industry collaborated to develop the KIWAMI and IDOMI racing wheelchairs.
- 2019: The KAKERU racing wheelchair was launched and won a Good Design Award in 2021.
Empowering Athletes, Advancing Wheelchair Athletics
Honda is committed to advancing wheelchair athletics and helping athletes unlock new levels of performance. The new push power measurement system will be lent to organizations and schools around the world, empowering more athletes to improve their training and achieve their goals.
As Honda continues to innovate and break barriers in wheelchair racing technology, the company invites athletes, coaches, and supporters to explore this groundbreaking system and take part in shaping the future of wheelchair athletics.
Honda’s Vision for a More Inclusive Future
Honda’s latest innovation reflects its long-standing dedication to improving the mobility and athletic performance of individuals worldwide. By providing tools that enable athletes to enhance their skills and optimize their training, Honda is not just advancing technology and it’s helping to realize the dreams of athletes who inspire us all with their determination and passion. As Honda continues to drive progress in wheelchair athletics, it remains committed to supporting athletes in their journey to greatness, both on and off the track.
