Pscyle Lab

A rare rehabilitation facility can be found in the Kinesiology Department at Tarleton State University. Established in 1994, the Laboratory for Wellness and Motor Behavior has been providing paraplegics and quadriplegics with a workout facility which targets full body movement. The laboratory’s nickname, Psycle Lab, derives from an interesting piece of machinery. The Psycle is an innovative recumbent bicycle which allows those with paralysis to engage in cardiovascular exercise which targets the lower body. These Psycles are generated by a flywheel, which corresponds to the effort exerted by the rider. As astonishing as it sounds, paraplegics and quadriplegics can benefit from the Psycle.

 The Psycle allows paraplegics and quadriplegics to engage in aerobic activity to enhance their cardiovascular health. These clients propel their legs by using their arms to push and pull under the knee cap and thigh. The Psycle is also a great for preparing those who will be able to walk again by stimulating muscle cells. Benefits of using this Pscyle have shown improvements in flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, decrease in muscle spasms, and hypertrophy.

The neat thing about this laboratory is that it’s FREE. Anyone with a disability can take advantage of this facility and improve their overall health and even their chances of walking!