New Study Confirms Volt Hockey Improves Quality of Life

We’ve always known it, and now it’s proven: volt hockey changes lives. A peer-reviewed study published in Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport (March 19, 2025) shows that participating in power wheelchair team sports like volt hockey provides measurable mental, emotional, and physical benefits for athletes with disabilities.

Groundbreaking Research

Led by Lorna Hayward of Northeastern University and co-authored by US volt hockey friends and coaches Dylan Hogan, Avery Melam, and Amanda Bell, the study followed 10 athletes from the United States and Scandinavia who play volt hockey or power wheelchair soccer. Key findings include:

• Higher Quality of Life Scores: Participants reported strong physical, psychological, and social well-being, with average physical health scores (76.4) exceeding those of many people without disabilities

• Real Cardiovascular Exercise: Heart rates during scrimmages averaged nearly 20 beats per minute higher than at rest, proving that volt hockey provides meaningful aerobic activity.

• Powerful Personal Impact: Interviews revealed four major themes—Community, Personal Gain, Competition, and Barriers—showing that volt hockey fosters friendships, confidence, and motivation while highlighting ongoing needs for equipment, trained volunteers, and accessible transportation.

Why It Matters

Participants described volt hockey as “freeing,” “motivating,” and “a reason for everything I do,” underscoring how adaptive team sports combat social isolation and promote independence.

These findings validate what our players experience every day: volt hockey isn’t just a game—it’s a pathway to better health, stronger community, and personal empowerment.

Read the Full Study

Dive into the research here:

Power Wheelchair Adaptive Team Sport Involvement Experience Impact on Quality of Life a.

Download • 844KB