Paralympic design: wheelchair rugby
Chairs used in the wheelchair rugby event at the London 2012 Paralympics are designed to withstand heavy impacts and be easily manoeuvrable.
![Paralympic design: wheelchair rugby Paralympic design: wheelchair rugby](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/08/dezeen_Paralympic-design-wheelchair-rugby_4.jpg)
Above and top images by Channel 4
Also known as 'murderball', the full-contact sport requires equipment that is incredibly durable and can endure constant bombardment, as well as being light, fast and agile.
![Paralympic design: wheelchair rugby Paralympic design: wheelchair rugby](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/08/dezeen_Paralympic-design-wheelchair-rugby_3.jpg)
Above image by Channel 4
A bumper designed to help strike and hold opponents is attached to the front of the chairs.
![Paralympic design: wheelchair rugby Paralympic design: wheelchair rugby](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/08/dezeen_Paralympic-design-wheelchair-rugby_1.jpg)
Above image by Channel 4
Wings are positioned in front of the main wheels to make the wheelchair more difficult to stop and hold.
![Paralympic design: wheelchair rugby Paralympic design: wheelchair rugby](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/08/dezeen_Paralympic-design-wheelchair-rugby_5.jpg)
The wheels are covered by spoke protectors to prevent damage during collisions, and all chairs include an anti-tip device at the back.
![Paralympic design: wheelchair rugby Paralympic design: wheelchair rugby](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/08/dezeen_Paralympic-design-wheelchair-rugby_7.jpg)
Wheelchair rugby takes place on Wednesday 5 September in the Basketball Arena at the Olympic Park.
![Paralympic design: wheelchair rugby Paralympic design: wheelchair rugby](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/08/dezeen_Paralympic-design-wheelchair-rugby_6.jpg)
See all our stories about design for Paralympic athletes »
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