Frame Running participation in all settings for people with physical disabilities-a systematic scoping review.
Abstract
Purpose
This systematic scoping review aimed to map existing knowledge concerning Frame Running across settings for people with physical disabilities.
Methods
A three-step search strategy was applied across five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, APA PsycInfo, and Scopus) through August 2025.
Results
Twenty studies (2010-2025) were included; quantitative (n = 16), qualitative (n = 1), and mixed-methods (n = 3). Most originated from Sweden (n = 6) and the United Kingdom (n = 6). The majority examined health impacts and physiological responses (n = 12), followed by performance enhancement and classification (n = 7), and participant experiences and perspectives (n = 1). Half of the studies included only participants with cerebral palsy (n = 10). Study designs were predominantly cross-sectional (n = 12), with a smaller number of pre-post study designs (n = 3), two of which assessed feasibility. In total, the studies included 494 Frame Running participants.
Conclusions
Frame Running is an emerging research field with suggested physiological and psychosocial benefits. Evidence is largely quantitative and cross-sectional, highlighting the need for prospective studies with low risk of bias to clarify its impacts and effectiveness of Frame Running, alongside research on lived experiences. Research should evaluate the classification structure and address accessibility across settings to support equitable access and further development.