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Purpose: To compare power output and pacing between maximal 1500- and 2000-m on-water rowing performances. Methods: Twenty-six (female n = 4, male n = 22) international rowers, across 6 boat classes, completed maximal 1500- and 2000-m on-water races, separated by 24 to 48 hours. Crew combinations and seat orders remained consistent between races. Peach PowerLine instrumentation measured power output and stroke rate. Differences in completion time, mean power output (MPO), percentage prognostic velocity (PPV; percentage of world record velocity in each boat class), stroke rate, and pacing variance were assessed using linear mixed modeling. Results: Compared with 2000-m, completion times were 90.4 (6.1) seconds shorter over 1500 m (−24.7% [0.7%]). Both MPO (P =.255, η p 2 =.06) and PPV (P =.340, η p 2 =.18) were not different between distances. Broadly, crews adopted a reverse-J-shaped pacing across both distances, demonstrating a reduced variance over 1500 m (P =.035, η p 2 =.62). Percentage change in MPO from 2000 to 1500 m demonstrated a strong negative association with pacing variance over 1500 m (R2 =.74, P =.027). Conclusions: International rowing crews did not increase MPO or PPV when racing maximally over 1500 m compared to 2000 m. Comparable strategies were adopted over both distances, with less variance in pacing observed over 1500 m. The crews that demonstrated greater increases in MPO over the shorter race employed a flatter pacing strategy. To improve 1500-m on-water performance, rowers may need to adopt a more even pacing approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Masters rowing has seen a measurable increase in participation, with masters rowers engaged in the sport for competition, health, and recreation reasons. Unlike other masters sports, masters rowing has a unique high level of synchronous, cooperative, and interdependent elements. To better understand the benefits and challenges of participation in competitive masters rowing, the purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of competitive masters rowers. Twelve competitive masters rowers were recruited and interviewed. Utilizing an interpretative phenomenological analysis approach to guide data collection, analysis, and interpretation, the analysis revealed four major themes: navigating community relationships, finding a reason to row, growing opportunities, and seeking considerate coaches. Utilizing self-determination theory as a framework for interpreting the findings, the identified themes illustrate the varying motivations, needs, and preferences of competitive masters rowers, as well as how their experiences are influenced by their coaches and peers. Efforts should be made by masters rowing coaches and administrators to better understand the needs of their athletes to ensure the maximum benefits of participation, commitment, and enjoyment of the sport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study compared the effects of individualizing supramaximal interval rowing interventions using anaerobic power reserve (APR [high-intensity interval training (HIIT) prescribed according to individual APR (HIITAPR)]) and power associated with maximal oxygen uptake ( W V ˙ O 2 max [HIIT prescribed based on the individual W V ˙ O 2 max (HIITW)]) on the homogeneity of physiological and performance adaptations. Methods: Twenty-four well-trained rowers (age 24.8 [4.3] y, stature 182.5 [3] cm, body mass 86.1 [4.3]) were randomized into interventions consisting of 4 × 30-second intervals at 130%APR ( W V ˙ O 2 max + 0.3 × maximal sprint power) with weekly progression by increasing the number of repetitions per set (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10, from first to sixth session) and the same sets and repetitions with the intensity described as 130% W V ˙ O 2 max. The work-to-recovery ratio was 1:1 for repetitions and 3 minutes between sets. Responses of aerobic fitness indices, power output, cardiac hemodynamics, locomotor abilities, and time-trial performance were examined. Results: Both HIITAPR and HIITW interventions significantly improved V ˙ O 2 max , lactate threshold, cardiac hemodynamics, and 2000-m performance, with no between-groups difference in changes over time. However, HIITAPR resulted in a lower interindividual variability in adaptations in V ˙ O 2 max and related physiological parameters, but this is not the case for athletic performance, which can depend on a multitude of factors beyond physiological parameters. Conclusions: Results demonstrated that expressing supramaximal interval intensity as a proportion of APR facilitates imposing the same degrees of homeostatic stress and leads to more homogeneous physiological adaptations in maximal variables when compared to prescribing a supramaximal HIIT intervention using W V ˙ O 2 max. However, lower interindividual variability would be seen in submaximal variables if HIIT interventions were prescribed using W V ˙ O 2 max. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the energetic contribution and pacing in 2000- and 1500-m maximal rowing-ergometer performances. Methods: On separate visits (>48 h apart, random order), 18 trained junior (16.7 [0.4] y) male rowers completed 3 trials: a 7 × 4-minute graded exercise test, a 2000-m time trial (TT2000), and a 1500-m TT (TT1500). Respiratory gases were continuously measured throughout each trial. The submaximal power-to-oxygen-consumption relationship from the graded exercise test was used to determine the accumulated oxygen deficit for each TT. Differences in mean power output (MPO), relative anaerobic contribution, percentage of peak oxygen uptake, pacing index, maximum heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, and blood lactate concentration were assessed using linear mixed modeling. Results: Compared to TT2000 (324 [24] W), MPO was 5.2% (3.3%) higher in TT1500 (341 [29 W]; P <.001, η p 2 =.70). There was a 4.9% (3.3%) increase (P <.001, η p 2 =.71) in anaerobic contribution from 17.3% (3.3%) (TT2000) to 22.2% (4.3%) (TT1500). Compared to TT1500, maximum heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, and blood lactate concentration were all greater (P <.05) in TT2000. The pacing index was not different between trials. Percentage increase in MPO from TT2000 to TT1500 was negatively associated with pacing variance in TT1500 (R2 =.269, P =.027). Conclusions: Maximal ergometer performance over 1500 m requires a significantly greater anaerobic contribution compared with 2000 m. Junior male athletes adopt a consistent pacing strategy across both distances. However, those who experienced greater percentage increases in MPO over the shorter test adopted a more even pacing strategy. To prepare for 1500-m performance, greater emphasis should be placed on developing capacity for work in the severe domain and completing race simulations with a more even pacing strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most people with intellectual disabilities have comorbid health conditions, which will impact optimization of sporting performance. Classification is used in Paralympic events to ensure that those with similar levels of functional ability compete fairly against each other. An evidence-based approach needs to be developed for athletes with intellectual disabilities to be classified in relation to their overall functional capacity into competition groups of similar ability. This research builds on previous work using the taxonomy of The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to group athletes with intellectual disabilities into comparable competition groups as an approach to Paralympic classification. Three groups of athletes—Virtus, Special Olympics, and Down syndrome—are compared using the ICF questionnaire indicating functional health status in relation to sporting performance. The questionnaire was found to discriminate between athletes with Down syndrome and other athletes, and an approach to using a cutoff score to develop competition classes is explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the interference effects of various resistance-training (RT) protocols on rowing ergometer performance. Methods: Fourteen semiprofessional male rowers randomly completed 5 protocols in separate sessions: (1) control—no RT session was performed, (2) upper-body high-fatigue—4 sets to failure during the bench pull exercise, (3) upper-body low-fatigue—4 sets of 6 repetitions during the bench pull exercise, (4) lower-body high-fatigue—4 sets to failure during the leg-press exercise, and (5) lower-body low-fatigue—4 sets of 6 repetitions during the leg-press exercise. All sets were performed against the 12-repetition-maximum load with 2 minutes of interset rest. Following the completion of the protocols, subjects performed an all-out 1000-m rowing ergometer test. Results: Compared with the control condition, rowing ergometer performance was not significantly affected after the low-fatigue RT protocols (upper body: P ≥.487; Δ = 0.0%–0.2%; lower body: P ≥.200; Δ = −0.2%–0.5%), while it significantly declined following high-fatigue RT protocols (upper body: P ≤.001; Δ = 1.0%–2.0%; lower body: P ≤.002; Δ = 2.1%–2.5%). The average heart rate was significantly lower for the control condition compared with all RT protocols (P ≤.043; Δ = 1.0%–1.5%). Conclusions: To minimize interference on rowing performance, coaches should prioritize the level of effort in RT protocols over specific exercises, specifically avoiding high-fatigue protocols that lead to failure before rowing practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of sodium bicarbonate (SB) supplementation on physical performance, neuromuscular and metabolic responses during CrossFit® exercise. Seventeen Advanced CrossFit®-trained athletes completed the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover protocol consisting of four visits, including two familiarization sessions and two experimental trials separated by a 7-day washout period. Participants supplemented 0.3 g/kg body mass (BM) of SB or placebo 120-min prior to performing the CrossFit® benchmark Fran followed by 500 m of rowing. SB improved time to complete Fran compared to PLA (291.2 ± 71.1 vs. 303.3 ± 77.8 s, p = 0.047), but not 500 m rowing (112.1 s ± 7.9 vs. 113.2 s ± 8.9 s, p = 0.26). No substantial side-effects were reported during the trials. This study showed that SB improved CrossFit® benchmark Fran performance, but not subsequent 500-m rowing. These data suggest that SB might be an interesting supplementation strategy for CrossFit® athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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"La casa inundada" (1960) presents a peculiar, meditative, and uncanny short story by the Uruguayan writer, Felisberto Hernández. The story is narrated via the memories (and the male fantasies) of a writer who once took on the odd job of rowing a large woman around the inside of her flooded house day after day in a small boat. Throughout most of the story, the woman, Margarita, remains a mystery to the narrator and to the reader, as do the reasons for her taciturn disposition and for having purposefully flooded her own house. In this article, rather than rescue what is unknown so that the mysterious woman's apparent '"dirty little secret'" can be recovered from the swell, I explore the ontological, epistemological, and affective attributes of water itself. In so doing, I build on Felisberto's expanding bibliography, calling particular attention to his understudied motifs of "pereza" and "deslizarse." Unlike most critics of Felisberto, I utilize concepts that both come from and critique psychoanalysis; additionally, the underappreciated theories of Gaston Bachelard regarding water as a "true mother substance" serve as a vital source of theoretical interpretation. In the course of Felisberto's story, the narrator comes to believe that, for the motherly—and tantalizing—character of Margarita, "lo que más quería [ella], era comprender el agua." Ultimately, as I demonstrate, "La casa inundada," similarly helps readers to better think, understand, and sense water and its myriad ways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to allow us to understand the subjective experiences of medical students participating in rowing exercise classes at a medical school in South Korea and to derive implications for medical education. Accordingly, we analyzed their reflective journals, focusing on leadership and teamwork development. The study involved 40 second-year premedical students, and Colaizzi's analysis was employed to understand and structure their experiences. The comprehensive analysis revealed 149 meaningful statements expressing students' thoughts and experiences regarding the rowing exercise. From these statements, 13 meanings were synthesized, resulting in nine themes and four overarching categories, which provided a multilayered understanding of students' experiences. The factors that enhanced teamwork included communication, trust, respect among team members, and a sense of responsibility. By contrast, the hindering factors were competitiveness, impatience, and avoidance of responsibility. Before the class, a mix of anticipation, excitement, and dissatisfaction regarding the rowing exercise course was observed. However, after the class, students realized that the role of the entire team, rather than individual ability, is crucial, and collaboration with peers is key—the concept of shared leadership. This study is significant in that it demonstrates rowing's potential as a team sport to serve as an effective program for fostering collaboration and leadership within the medical school curriculum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to compare the frequency and duration of on-side and off-side strokes and stroke transitions between male and female canoe slalom athletes during international competitions. We analysed 33 International Canoe Federation World Cup, World Championship and European Canoe Association Championship canoe slalom race videos, from 2018 to 2020, frame-by-frame. We recorded drive durations and transition durations for each race run. We also recorded the frequency of different stroke types and transition types used in each run. Stroke timing parameters differed between female and male athletes. We found that female athletes performed a significantly greater proportion of switch transitions and on-side strokes. Male athletes performed a significantly greater proportion of cross transitions and off-side strokes. Male athletes performed significantly faster cross transitions. On-on and off-off transition durations were significantly faster than cross transitions, and cross transitions were significantly faster than switch transitions. Females had a significantly longer drive duration and lower stroke frequency compared to males. Overall, stroke and drive durations of on-side strokes and off-side strokes were not significantly different. This study identifies stroke technique differences between male and female canoe slalom athletes which can be used as a basis for future research and training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internationally, few studies have been written on the prevalence of eating disorders among rowers, and there is no research on the subject in Hungary. This is particularly important in weight-related sports such as rowing. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of eating disorders among rowers. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted in the summer of 2023. In a non-random convenience sampling, our target population consisted of certified competitive rowers (n = 222). In addition to socio-demographic, performance-related questions, the anonymous, self-completed questionnaire used the validated The Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI). Results were considered significant when p < 0.05. A total of 57 lightweight (25.67%) and 165 openweight (74.33%) rowers participated in the study. On the perfectionism subscale and the interoceptive awareness subscale, rowers competing in the lightweight category scored significantly higher (p = 0.03; p = 0.05). Scores on the EDI subscales, gender and BMI data did not show significant relationships. Overall, rowers in the openweight group scored higher on the bulimia subscale, but no rowers who met all criteria and could be identified as having eating disorders. Rowers who have only competed in national championships and not in international competitions were more likely to reduce stress levels by eating. The study showed that the prevalence of eating disorders among rowers is no higher than in the general population. However, continued assessment, further extensive research and education of rowers is essential in this area, as weight-related sports will always be a risk group for eating disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rowing is a complex sport where technique can significantly impact performance. A better understanding of the rowers' technique and neuromuscular activations during scull rowing, along with their impact on rowing performance, could greatly help trainers and athletes. Twelve male rowers were asked to row at their competitive stroke rate, and we collected data describing neuromuscular activations, trunk and arm kinematics, as well as technical determinants such as oar angles and angle asymmetries. We fitted linear mixed-effect models to investigate the effects of these variables on power production and boat speed. A larger effective angle had the greatest positive effect on power output, and slip angles had the largest negative effects. Increased elbow flexion at catch had the greatest negative effect on speed. Angle asymmetries affected neither power nor speed. Increased upper limb neuromuscular activity during the first and third quarters of the drive phase helped reduce slip angles, thus increasing performance. Power and speed were influenced similarly by the predictor variables. Still, they showed subtle differences, indicating that the strategies to maximize power production might not be the best ones to also achieve the maximum speed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: While previous evidence has shown that using free weights for resistance training is a more practical approach to enhancing strength, there is a relatively low prevalence of free-weight resistance training among adolescent kayak/canoe athletes. Therefore, this study aims to assess the impact of free-weight resistance training on body composition and various performance factors among adolescent canoe/kayak athletes. Methods: Twenty-seven young sprint kayakers and canoeists (14 ± 1 years; 164 ± 7 cm; 56 ± 8 kg) completed this study. Following baseline assessments, athletes were randomly divided into two training groups: the free-weight resistance training group (FW) or the control group (C). The FW group underwent free-weight resistance training sessions twice weekly for 24 weeks. The C group maintained their regular bodyweight training sessions during the same timeframe. All participants performed both the pre- and post-training assessments for the following dependent variables: body composition, upper-body power, upper-body isometric muscle strength, isometric mid-thigh pull, core strength, countermovement jump, balance, anaerobic ability, and aerobic performance. Results: After 24 weeks of training, the free-weight resistance training group exhibited a significant increase in body weight (from 56 ± 5 kg to 58 ± 4 kg, p < 0.05) and improvements in the number of straight leg raise repetitions (from 23 ± 6 to 26 ± 4, p < 0.05) compared to the control group. However, the two groups observed no significant differences between upper-body isometric muscle strength, power, balance, and anaerobic/aerobic performance. Conclusions: A 24-week training duration might be insufficient for novice participants in resistance training. Future research should consider incorporating an adaptation period or a learning phase for movements before training, thereby enhancing the efficacy of free-weight resistance training in increasing strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Biomechanical parameters can distinguish a skilled rower from a less skilled rower and can provide coaches with meaningful feedback and objective evidence to inform coaching practices on rowing technique. Therefore, it is critical to understand which technical characteristics can be related to the fundamental rowing performance indicators. The aim of this systematic scoping review was to describe the current focus and density of rowing biomechanics research specific to on-water rowing and provide a guide for practitioners and researchers on future directions for on-water rowing biomechanics research. Methods: All peer-reviewed publications involving the on-water assessment of rowing biomechanics were reviewed from four databases (SPORTDiscus, PubMed, Sage online journals, and Web of Science). Search results returned 1659 records, of which 27 studies met the inclusion criteria for the review. Results: All reported variables were collated and summarised according to the three main measurements of basic mechanics: time, space and force. Study characteristics were collated to provide a descriptive overview of the literature. The main categorical variables included time, distance, velocity, acceleration, force, power and crew synchrony. Conclusion: Data extraction revealed gate force, horizontal oar angle and boat velocity as the most reported variables with numerous subcategories of metrics within each measure. A framework to help guide and standardise on-water rowing biomechanical assessment and the establishment of standards for environmental data collection could help guide practitioners and researchers in the on-water rowing environment. This scoping review was registered on the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/8q5vw/). Key Points: While the literature has reported on an extensive range of biomechanical metrics relevant to rowing performance, however, the variability of reported measures across the different boat classes, sex and skill levels makes the collation of data challenging. The rate at which a rower can apply force and the ability to maintain the force into the finish are distinguishing features of elite rowing while prioritizing the measurement and application of power is essential for effectively monitoring and controlling training loads, as well as for refining technique. The development of a standardized framework for on-water rowing biomechanical assessment, coupled with established protocols for environmental data collection, would provide practitioners and researchers with a structured approach for navigating the on-water rowing context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On-water rowing performance consists of the integration of physical and technical attributes. This exploratory study aimed to describe key physical and technical variables for elite and junior rowers and examine the associations and predictive capacity of these variables with on-water rowing performance outcomes. Twenty-eight junior (16 females, 16 ± 0.8 years and 12 males, 17 ± 0.7 years) and 24 elite rowers (12 females, 24 ± 2.7 years and 12 males, 27 ± 2.6 years) completed an on-water, single sculling biomechanics assessment combined with a series of physical, strength and power tests. Elite men and women were superior in mean gate force, distance per stroke and recovery distance compared to junior groups as determined by independent t-tests and effect size appraisal (p < 0.017, d > 1.2). Large associations (p < 0.01) were evident between anthropometry, strength and power assessments with the on-water measures of catch angle, mean gate force, recovery distance and boat speed. Differences in ROM and flexibility attributes did not distinguish between elite and junior rowers. Linear discriminant analysis revealed that individual rowers can be appropriately categorised by sex and performance level based on their physical and technical attributes. This battery of testing with world-class athletes represents an excellent level of ecological validity for the assessment of rowers pertinent to on-water performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boat acceleration profiles can provide valuable information for coaches and practitioners to make meaningful technical interventions and monitor the determinants of success in rowing. Previous studies have used simple feature detection methods to identify key phases within individual strokes, such as drive onset, drive time, drive offset and stroke time. However, based on skill level, technique or boat class, the hull acceleration profile can differ, making robust feature detection more challenging. The current study's purpose is to employ the undecimated wavelet transform (UWT) technique to detect individual features in the stroke acceleration profile from a single rowing hull-mounted accelerometer. In this investigation, the temporal and kinematic values obtained using the AdMosTM sensor in conjunction with the UWT processing approach were strongly correlated with the comparative measures of the Peach™ instrumented oarlock system. The measures for stroke time displayed very strong agreeability between the systems for all boat classes, with ICC values of 0.993, 0.963 and 0.954 for the W8+, W4− and W1x boats, respectively. Similarly, the drive time was also very consistent, with strong to very strong agreeability, producing ICC values of 0.937, 0.901 and 0.881 for the W8+, W4− and W1x boat classes. Further, a Bland–Altman analysis displayed little to no bias between the AdMosTM-derived and Peach™ measures, indicating that there were no systematic discrepancies between signals. This single-sensor solution could form the basis for a simple, cost-effective and accessible alternative to multi-sensor instrumented systems for the determination of sub-stroke kinematic phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging research supports that some former collegiate athletes (FCAs) can become physically inactive after retiring from sport, which can exacerbate unfavorable changes in long-term health. While researchers have addressed transitional difficulties FCAs may experience after retiring, little empirical evidence exists on how to promote healthy post-sport physical activity (PA) levels for those who are insufficiently active. Because of FCAs' past sports training, considering their opinions for effective PA program components may be beneficial in early stages of behavioral intervention development. As such, 17 insufficiently active former National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I athletes engaged in semi-structured interviews exploring their post-sport PA experiences and perceptions of effective program characteristics. Using Consensual Qualitative Research procedures, five domains were constructed. Three domains were discussed in a previous article; this paper overviews the remaining two, which describe participants' opinions of what would effectively promote PA in their population: (a) a desire for an 'athletics-lite' atmosphere in an FCA-targeted intervention, and (b) using technology to positively engage former athletes in their PA transition. While participants believed an athletics-based program where they are provided feedback and individualized workouts would be effective in maintaining PA, this may indicate underdeveloped autonomy in some FCAs regarding PA maintenance post-sport. Initially utilizing college sports personnel in a program may aid FCAs at risk of inactivity in transferring skills used in sport to independent PA maintenance after retiring. Further, the introduction and use of technology may help facilitate self-monitoring of progress, social support, and individualization when external resources are unavailable. Lay summary: Seventeen, inactive former college athletes (FCAs) were interviewed to understand enablers for promoting physical activity (PA) in their population. Utilizing sport/exercise personnel to help FCAs become more autonomous in their behavior and promoting self-monitoring through technology may help those in this population who struggle to maintain PA post-sport. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: On-campus programs should consider involving athletics personnel (e.g., coaches, athletic trainers, certified mental performance consultants) and, pending available resources, outside experts (e.g., exercise physiologists) to deliver techniques, strategies, and education to explicitly support retiring student-athletes in maintaining PA after retirement. The perceived need for an athletics atmosphere, such as a coach-figure and teammates to be competitive with, may indicate underdeveloped autonomy for maintaining PA in insufficiently active FCAs. While athletics personnel may be useful in early promotion of PA, programs should strive to help them build more self-determined forms of motivation and be self-sufficient in maintaining PA post-sport. Programs may consider promoting the maintenance of PA to students-athletes via the use of wearable devices, PA applications, and online resources to promote self-monitoring of behavior, facilitate social support, and provide education on healthy PA practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to conduct a biophysical comparison of angular (Biorower) and linear (Concept2) rowing ergometers across a wide spectrum of exercise intensities. Sixteen (eleven male) skilled rowers, aged 29.8 ± 8.6 and 23.6 ± 1.5 years, with international competitive experience, performed 7 × 3 min bouts with 30 W increments and 60 s intervals, plus 1 min of all-out rowing on both machines with 48 h in between. The ventilatory and kinematical variables were measured breath-by-breath using a telemetric portable gas analyzer and determined using a full-body markerless system, respectively. Similar values of oxygen uptake were observed between ergometers across all intensity domains (e.g., 60.36 ± 8.40 vs. 58.14 ± 7.55 mL/min/kg for the Biorower and Concept2 at severe intensity). The rowing rate was higher on the Biorower vs. Concept2 at heavy and severe intensities (27.88 ± 3.22 vs. 25.69 ± 1.99 and 30.63 ± 3.18 vs. 28.94 ± 2.29). Other differences in kinematics were observed across all intensity domains, particularly in the thorax angle at the finish (e.g., 19.44 ± 4.49 vs. 27.51 ± 7.59° for the Biorower compared to Concep2 at heavy intensity), likely due to closer alignment of the Biorower with an on-water rowing technique. The overall perceived effort was lower on the Biorower when compared to the Concept2 (14.38 ± 1.76 vs. 15.88 ± 1.88). Rowers presented similar cardiorespiratory function on both rowing ergometers, while important biomechanical differences were observed, possibly due to the Biorower's closer alignment with an on-water rowing technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to explore the potential impact of incorporating blood flow restriction (BFR) training within a training block characterized by minimal high-intensity work on 2000-m rowing ergometer time trial (TT) performance in elite/world-class rowers. Physiological markers often associated with endurance performance (maximal aerobic capacity, ... blood lactate thresholds and hemoglobin mass, Hbmass) were measured to determine whether changes are related to an improvement in performance. Methods: Using a quasi-experimental, observational study design (no control group), 2000-m TT performance, ..., submaximal work rates eliciting blood lactate concentrations of ~2 and ~4mmol⋅L-1, and Hbmass were measured before and after 4 wk of noncompetitive season training, which included BFR rowing. BFR training consisted of 11 sessions of 2 x 10 min of BFR rowing at a workload equating to blood lactate concentrations of ~2 mmol⋅L-1. Paired t-tests were used to compare pre-/postvalues, and Pearson correlation was used to examine whether physiological changes were associated with changes to TT performance. Results: TT performance improved in both female (1.09% ± 1.2%, ~4.6 ± 5.2 s; P < 0.01) and male (1.17% ± 0.48%, ~4.5 ± 1.9 s; P < 0.001) athletes. ... increased in female rowers only (P < 0.01), but both sexes had an increase in work rates eliciting blood lactate concentrations of 2 mmol⋅L-1 (female: 184 ± 16 to 195 ± 15 W, P < 0.01;male: 288 ± 23 to 317 ± 26W, P = 0.04) and 4 mmol⋅L-1 (female: 217 ± 13 to 227 ± 14 W, P = 0.02;male: 339 ± 43 to 364 ± 39W, P < 0.01). No changes in Hbmass (both sexes, P = 0.8) were observed. Improvements in TT performance were not related to physiological changes (all correlations P ≥ 0.2). Conclusions: After 4 wk of training with BFR, the improvement in TT performance was greater than what is typical for this population. Physiological variables improved during this training block but did not explain improved TT performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Performance tracking devices in the form of wrist-worn watches are common in rowing; however, the accuracy of relevant output variables (i.e. stroke rate [SR] and velocity) during on-water training is unknown. To assess the quality of wrist-watch data output, 16 rowing athletes recorded 118 on-water rowing sessions using a Garmin Forerunner 735XT, which was compared to a Catapult Optimeye R4 tracking device. Garmin recording function was set to 'Every Second' (N = 68 sessions) or 'Smart' (N = 50 sessions). Catapult velocity was calculated as the average velocity per stroke, while a 15 s velocity moving average was determined for Garmin data. Catapult and Garmin were filtered for training-specific data (SR = 14–50 strokes per minute [spm]; velocity = 2.1–7.0 m/s−1). Efficacy and reliability of the Garmin was assessed via the difference between devices (% error), intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC ± 95% confidence interval (CI)) and coefficient of variation (CV%). Error in 15 s smoothed velocity was 3.8% ('Every Second') and 8.2% ('Smart'). Both recording functions demonstrated 'good' reliability (ICC = 0.75–0.9, CV < 10%) for SR and velocity; the exception was SR using 'Smart' recording. Our data suggests that when using the 'Every Second' recording function, data is filtered and velocity is smoothed over 15 s, the Garmin device can be reliable for SR and velocity measurement within 1 spm and <0.20 m/s−1 respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the acute biophysical responses of changing the mandibular position during a rowing incremental protocol. A World-class 37-year-old male rower performed two 7 × 3 min ergometer rowing trials, once with no intraoral splint (control) and the other with a mandibular forward repositioning splint (splint condition). Ventilatory, kinematics and body electromyography were evaluated and compared between trials (paired samples t-test, p ≤ 0.05). Under the splint condition, oxygen uptake was lower, particularly at higher exercise intensities (67.3 ± 2.3 vs. 70.9 ± 1.5 mL·kg−1·min−1), and ventilation increased during specific rowing protocol steps (1st–4th and 6th). Wearing the splint condition led to changes in rowing technique, including a slower rowing frequency ([18–30] vs. [19–32] cycles·min−1) and a longer propulsive movement ([1.58–1.52] vs. [1.56–1.50] m) than the control condition. The splint condition also had a faster propulsive phase and a prolonged recovery period than the control condition. The splint reduced peak and mean upper body muscle activation, contrasting with an increase in lower body muscle activity, and generated an energetic benefit by reducing exercise cost and increasing rowing economy compared to the control condition. Changing the mandibular position benefited a World-class rower, supporting the potential of wearing an intraoral splint in high-level sports, particularly in rowing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Biomechanical parameters can distinguish a skilled rower from a less skilled rower and can provide coaches with meaningful feedback and objective evidence to inform coaching practices on rowing technique. Therefore, it is critical to understand which technical characteristics can be related to the fundamental rowing performance indicators. The aim of this systematic scoping review was to describe the current focus and density of rowing biomechanics research specific to on-water rowing and provide a guide for practitioners and researchers on future directions for on-water rowing biomechanics research. Methods All peer-reviewed publications involving the on-water assessment of rowing biomechanics were reviewed from four databases (SPORTDiscus, PubMed, Sage online journals, and Web of Science). Search results returned 1659 records, of which 27 studies met the inclusion criteria for the review. Results All reported variables were collated and summarised according to the three main measurements of basic mechanics: time, space and force. Study characteristics were collated to provide a descriptive overview of the literature. The main categorical variables included time, distance, velocity, acceleration, force, power and crew synchrony. Conclusion Data extraction revealed gate force, horizontal oar angle and boat velocity as the most reported variables with numerous subcategories of metrics within each measure. A framework to help guide and standardise on-water rowing biomechanical assessment and the establishment of standards for environmental data collection could help guide practitioners and researchers in the on-water rowing environment. This scoping review was registered on the Open Science Framework ( https://osf.io/8q5vw/ ).

Mental effort (intensity of attention) in elite sports has remained a debated topic and a challenging phenomenon to measure. Thus, a quasi-ecological laboratory study was conducted to investigate mental effort in elite rowers as compared with a group of nonelites. Findings suggest that eye-tracking measures—specifically, blink rates and pupil size—can serve as valid indicators of mental effort in physically demanding sport tasks. Furthermore, findings contradict the notion that elite athletes spend less cognitive effort than their lower-level peers. Specifically, elites displayed similar levels of self-reported effort and performance decrement with increasing mental load and significantly more mental effort overall as measured by pupil-size increase (relative to baseline) during rowing trials as compared with the nonelites in the sample. Future studies on eye tracking in sports may include investigations of mental effort in addition to selective attention during physically demanding tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Single-Row Facility Layout Problem (SRFLP) is one of the most studied facility layout problems in the literature. It asks for an optimal arrangement of departments with given lengths on a row such that the weighted sum of all centre-to-centre distances between department pairs is minimised. Real-world facility layouts may require taking different restrictions on the placement of departments into account, such as arrangement on a fixed position, pairwise placement, or precedence considerations. Therefore, we consider the constrained Single-Row Facility Layout Problem (cSRFLP) that additionally considers positioning, ordering, and relation constraints on single-row facility layouts. In this work, we suggest a new Integer Linear Programming (ILP) formulation for the cSRFLP, which outperforms the best available exact approach in literature. In an extensive computational study, we apply our ILP approach as well as an LP-based cutting plane algorithm on SRFLP and cSRFLP instances from the literature. We provide optimal cSRFLP layouts as well as strong lower bounds for instances with up to 42 departments. Further, we present new results for SRFLP instances from the literature. Additionally, we demonstrate the individual impact of the constraint sets on the run times of cSRFLP instances to emphasise further research on this rarely studied practice-oriented Facility Layout Problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Oxygen uptake kinetics (VO2kinetics) is a measure of an athlete's capacity to respond to variations in energy demands. Faster VO2kinetics is associated with better performance in endurance sports, but optimal training methods to improve VO2kinetics remain unclear. This study compared the effects of 2 high-intensity interval-training (HIIT) programs on traditional rowing performance and VO2kinetics. Methods: Twelve highly trained rowers performed one of two 6-week HIIT protocols: either 3-minute repetitions at 90% (HIIT90; n = 5) of peak aerobic power (PAP) or 90-second repetitions at 100% (HIIT100; n = 7) of PAP. Before (PRE) and after (POST) the training intervention, they performed an incremental test to exhaustion to determine the individual lactate threshold, onset of blood lactate accumulation and PAP, and two 6-minute rest-to-exercise transitions to determine VO2kinetics. Results: No significant changes (P >.05) were observed for rowing ergometer power output at individual lactate threshold (HIIT90 PRE 255 [12], POST 264 [13]; HIIT100 247 [24], 266 [28] W), onset of blood lactate accumulation (279 [12], 291 [16]; 269 [23], 284 [32] W), or PAP (359 [13], 381 [15]; 351 [21], 363 [29] W) or for any parameters of VO2kinetics. No differences were observed between HIIT interventions. Conclusion: The HIIT interventions did not induce significant performance or VO2kinetics improvements, although mean power output at individual lactate threshold, onset of blood lactate accumulation, and PAP increased by 5.7%, 5.0%, and 4.5%, respectively. This suggests that the exact intensity and duration of HIIT sessions performed in the same intensity domain may be of lesser importance than other well-established influential factors (eg, training volume progression, training intensity distribution, altitude training) to develop aerobic qualities in endurance athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study assessed how exposure to slow (SBM) versus fast beat music (FBM) during high-intensity rowing intervals affects performance, heart rate (HR), lactate levels, relative perceived exertion (RPE), and recovery. Methods: The A/B crossover design involved 21 participants performing 5 × 500 m rowing intervals under two conditions: FBM and SBM. Primary endpoint was the difference in total rowing time. Secondary endpoints included average HR, average RPE as well as rowing interval times, RPE, and HR per interval. For exploratory purpose, HR and lactate drop during the initial 5 min post completion was analyzed. Results: Listening to FBM resulted in significantly shorter total rowing times (p = 0.009, rB = 0.59), especially during the 1st interval. The 1st interval was also significantly faster than intervals 2-5 (p < 0.001), with the greatest performance drop between the 1st and 2nd interval during FBM. Average HR was significantly lower when listening to SBM (p = 0.03, rB = 0.48), while average RPE showed no significant difference (p = 0.47, rB = 0.02). Lactate values after interval 5 were significantly lower in SBM (p = 0.05, rB = 0.41), but no significant difference was found for lactate drop (p = 0.21, rB = 0.21). However, participants exhibited a higher HR drop rate with SBM (p = 0.05, rB = 0.42). Conclusion: FBM improved performance without increasing RPE, while SBM proved superior for recovery. Systematic customization of music based on intended training stimuli holds broad potential for the competitive sports, fitness, and health sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study is to determine the feasibility of a wearable multi-sensor positioning prototype to be used as a training tool to evaluate rowing technique and to determine the positioning accuracy using multiple mathematical models and estimation methods. The wearable device consists of an inertial measurement unit (IMU), an ultra-wideband (UWB) transceiver, and a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receiver. An experiment on a rowing shell was conducted to evaluate the performance of the system on a rower's wrist, against a centimeter-level GNSS reference trajectory. This experiment analyzed the rowing motion in multiple navigation frames and with various positioning methods. The results show that the wearable device prototype is a viable option for rowing technique analysis; the system was able to provide the position, velocity, and attitude of a rower's wrist, with a positioning accuracy ranging between ±0.185 m and ±1.656 m depending on the estimation method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On‐water rowing is a sport where participants make extensive, powerful, and complex repetitive movements with their wrists to pull and feather (twist) the oar. Herein, the aim is to assess the frequency and perceived causes of wrist and forearm pain in rowers and, in particular, assess whether there are any possible mechanical issues that could be addressed through the use of auxetic technology. Through an online survey of 145 on‐water rowers, it is found that 33.8% of the rowers reported wrist or forearm pain arising from rowing. The majority (67.3%) consider over‐gripping to be the cause while one out of five associated it with periods of tension and anxiety, which also led them to over‐grip. This indicates that rowing handles could benefit from the use of mechanical metamaterials, auxetics in particular, owing to their anomalous manner in how they deform when subjected to mechanical deformations. Moreover, given the rise in popularity of coastal rowing, which will become an Olympic discipline alongside classic rowing as from the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, the potential use of auxetics in the manufacture of protective gear for use in coastal rowing is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improvements in race times for male and female Para canoe athletes across different sports classes have led to a reduction in relative differences between classes over time. However, there is a lack of research examining the comparative developmental trajectories between high-performance Paralympic (PCS) and Olympic (OCS) canoe sprint. In this study, we compared the developmental trajectories of 200-meter kayak performances among PCS and OCS athletes. In total, we analyzed 628 race results obtained from public online databases, for nine competitions between 2015 and 2023. Race times were reduced over the years except in specific sports classes (KL3-M, K1-M, and K1-F; KL: Kayak Level, M: male, F: female), with a poor positive correlation (r = 0.17 to 0.33) between time and the years. For the remaining sports classes, these correlations ranged from poor to fair (r = −0.58 to −0.13). OCS K1 athletes outperformed their Paralympic counterparts. Among Paralympic classes, KL1 had slower times than KL2 and KL3 (p ≤.05), with KL2 times significantly lower than KL3 in the female category. OCS athletes exhibited less variability in race times compared to PCS athletes. In the male category, there were no significant differences in the coefficients of variation (CV) and amplitude of race times between sport classes, except for KL1-M, which had a larger CV than K1 (p ≤.05). In the female category, the CV and amplitude of race times were significantly higher in KL1-F compared to KL3-F and K1-F. OCS times remained stable from 2015, with KL3-M following a similar trend. PCS displayed greater race time variability, particularly in higher impairment classes, notably KL1. This underscores the existence of distinct developmental stages within the canoe sprint modality, particularly emphasizing the early developmental phase of KL1. It also provides valuable insights for coaches and sports selection, especially concerning athletes with more severe impairments, including those in Rehabilitation Centers and during athlete recruitment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rowing races require extreme physical and psychological effort from every athlete. This study aimed to determine the dynamics of the salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase, as well as blood lactate throughout the specific load represented by a 6 km rowing race, conducted on a rowing ergometer. The sample consisted of 11 junior and senior rowers from HVK Gusar in Split (n = 11) who actively competed at club and international levels. Variables consisted of three repeated oral samples of the hormone cortisol and the enzyme alpha-amylase determined in saliva and three repeated blood lactate samples. Potential differences in the levels of the studied variables at different time points were determined using a repeated-measures ANOVA test. The results showed different dynamics of hormonal (cortisol) and metabolic (alpha-amylase and lactates) variables. All variables experienced a significant post-race increase, while other changes were not significant. The results highlighted that high-intensity rowing causes an increase in the body's cortisol, alpha-amylase, and lactate levels. This should be implemented in rowing training to find the right balance between high and low-intensity rowing, enabling athletes' progression while reducing the risk of overtraining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rowing is a sport that requires athletes to perform the action of pulling and rotating an oar by hand, applying forces of considerable magnitude. Herein, inspired by the notion that auxetic materials and metamaterials behave differently compared to their conventional counterparts, it is examined how a handle prototype, specifically designed to incorporate the classic re‐entrant motif, behaves and how end‐users perceive it. Physical experiments conducted on such prototype, which measured the contact pressures, suggest that on average, higher pressures are measured when pulling with this reentrant grip compared to its non reentrant counterpart, indicating that this re‐entrant prototype should feel firmer. More importantly, respondents of a survey are asked to give their feedback, and different views on which handle they would prefer to use are provided. The ones who preferred the prototype with the reentrant features report that they preferred it because it felt firmer and allowed for a better grip. This suggests that there is potential for further investigation into whether handles, oar handles in particular, made from auxetic components, re‐entrant cells, or other motifs which are well known for their negative Poisson's ratio characteristics, could provide a better and more secure grip and be used in sports applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This longitudinal study aimed to analyze the effects of a team rowing-based training program on physical fitness and anthropometric parameters in female breast cancer survivors (n = 40; 56.78 ± 6.38 years). Participants were divided into two groups: one rowed in fixed seat rowing (FSR) boats (n = 20; 56.35 ± 4.89 years) and the other in sliding seat rowing (SSR) boats (n = 20; 57.20 ± 7.7 years). Both groups engaged in two 75-min sessions per week for 24 weeks. Significant improvements were observed in both groups in resting heart rate (FSR: −10.65 bpm; SSR: −8.45 bpm), heart rate at the beginning of the 6-min walk test (6 MWT) (FSR: −10.7 bpm; SSR: −11.25 bpm), and heart rate at the end of the test (FSR: −13.85 bpm; SSR: −20.35 bpm). Blood pressure improved significantly in both diastolic blood pressure (FSR: −12.35 mmHg; SSR: −19.25 mmHg) and systolic blood pressure (FSR: −13 mmHg; SSR: −16.95 mmHg). Additionally, both groups increased the distance covered in the 6 MWT (FSR: +63.05 m; SSR: +93.65 m). These results suggest that a rowing training program is a viable and safe activity for female breast cancer survivors, improving cardiac function, blood pressure, and cardiorespiratory capacity, particularly in sliding seat boats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to describe spinal biomechanics and injury patterns in rowing. In this systematic literature review, a Google and PubMed literature search was undertaken using keywords "rowing," "biomechanics," and "spine." Relevant articles were reviewed and synthesized to describe biomechanics, injury patterns, treatment options, and techniques for injury prevention. Rowing has increased in popularity throughout the United States. Up-to-date knowledge of rowing biomechanics and spinal injury patterns is necessary for prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment of the injured rowing athlete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exercise is an important occupation for wheelchair users. Limited access to adapted aerobic exercise equipment in the community and lack of knowledge on how to exercise are barriers to exercise participation among wheelchair users. To address these barriers, the adapted rower (aROW) and adapted skier (aSKI) exercise machines and educational materials were created. 1) To compare wheelchair users' perspectives of the effectiveness and usability of the aROW and aSKI. 2) To explore perceptions of educational materials to support use of the machines. A sequential, mixed-methods study design was used. Six wheelchair users trialled the machines, and completed an interview and two usability questionnaires. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic and conventional content analysis. Usability scores of both machines were compared using the Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test. Data show high usability of the aROW and aSKI. More set up challenges were reported for the aROW than the aSKI. Participants perceived both machines provided effective cardiovascular workouts, and each met their exercise goals differently. Participants preferred the instructional videos over instructional sheets and provided suggestions for improving both. The Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test showed no statistically significant difference in usability between the aROW and aSKI. Implementing the aROW and aSKI in the community may address some equity issues that wheelchair users face by providing more aerobic exercise options. Results will inform educational material revisions to support use of the machines. The adapted rower (aROW) and adapted skier (aSKI) were perceived as highly usable, suggesting provision of more adapted aerobic exercise options, like the aROW and aSKI, may address some exercise-related equity issues wheelchair users experience. Wheelchair users may consider multiple factors when choosing adapted exercise equipment, highlighting the importance of providing multiple options for adapted aerobic exercise equipment to facilitate agency in choice of exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Athletes' anthropometry, and especially their body composition, plays an important role in sport performance in general and in Trainera rowing in particular. Rowers' anthropometric and performance profiles may vary according to their position in the boat. The objectives of this study were to investigate the relationship between anthropometry, physical performance, physiological variables, and elite male rowers' boat positions. Twenty elite male traditional rowers were assessed and categorized according to their boat position: either in the middle of the boat (M) (n = 9) or in the bow and stern positions (BS) (n = 11). Anthropometric measurements and body composition were obtained for each rower, and physical performance was measured by a 45-s supramaximal rowing test and a VO2max incremental test on a Concept II rowing ergometer. The results showed that the rowers in the middle were taller (186.6 ± 4.9 cm), and significant differences were also found between the two groups according to body mass (BS 72.3 ± 3.8 vs. M 85.4 ± 4.3) and peak power (BS 641.5 ± 84 vs. M 737 ± 47.1), mean power (BS 538.5 ± 48.4 vs. M 604.1 ± 42.3), and physiological parameters (p < 0.05), VO2max (BS 66.5 ± 4.9 vs. M 59.3 ± 6.7). It can be concluded that height could be associated with elite rowers' performance and that a lower body mass index is related to better performance in bow and stern positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical activity improves breast cancer-related symptoms in women and decreases cancer-related mortality. The main objective of this systematic review is to synthesize and analyze the evidence of the effect of dragon boating on the quality of life of female breast cancer survivors. A systematic review based on the PRISMA method was conducted using four databases (Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane and Pubmed). The search phrase used was "Breast Cancer" AND "Dragon Boat" AND "Quality of Life". The search was conducted in June 2024. The PEDro method was used to ensure the quality of the publications. A total of 77 articles published until 2024 were selected, of which 10 met the inclusion criteria of assessing the application of dragon boating and that used a validated instrument to assess quality of life. There is no homogeneity in terms of the instrument used to measure QOL. The SF-36 was the most commonly used, followed by the FACT-B and the EORTC QLQ-C30. Five out of ten articles compared the improvement in quality of life between dragon boating and other physical activities, while 6 out of 10 analyzed the pre–post effect of dragon boat use. Dragon boating is a physical activity alternative that improves the quality of life of breast cancer survivors and reduces the symptomatology caused by the disease and its treatments. As dragon boat programs are applied over a longer period of time, the improvements in quality of life are greater. When compared with other types of physical activity, dragon boating does not show significant differences that position it as a better option for this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Shiga University Rowing Club celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2023. The club had a brilliant competitive record from its early days to the prewar and postwar periods, and was once one of the strongest collegiate rowing clubs in the Kansai region. After that, the club fell into the danger of disbandment due to problems with the coaching system and a decrease in club membership. In recent years, however, the club's competitive record has been improving, although it has not reached the competitive level of the past. The purpose of this study was to review in detail the management of the Shiga University Rowing Club and its coaching system and coaching methods, including external coaches, over the period of 41 years from 1978 to 2019, and to compare the periods when the club's competitive record was excellent and low. The study also clarified the future issues and direction of the coaching system and coaching methods as well as of the support activities of the “Ryosui Rowing Association,” the alumni association of the Shiga University Rowing Club, which will be necessary for reconstructing the Shiga University Rowing Club into one of the most competitive collegiate rowing clubs in the Kansai region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the effect of immersive virtual reality use on finishing time of a vigorous-intensity self-regulated exercise task, and on relevant psychological variables. Healthy untrained adults (N = 21; 10 men/11 women; age = 22.9 ± 7.2 years; BMI = 24.0 ± 4.5 kg/m2) completed 1500-m exercise bouts on a rowing ergometer in a counterbalanced and randomized order, with and without use of a headset-delivered virtual reality fitness program. Heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, affective valence, and attentional focus were collected every 300 m, in addition to finishing time. Data were analyzed with repeated measures as appropriate. Intensity of both exercise bouts was considered vigorous according to heart rate results (>77% maximal heart rate). Finishing time was faster in the control condition (449.57 ± 82.39 s) than in the virtual reality condition (463.00 ± 91.78 s), p = .007. Compared to the control condition, the virtual reality condition was characterized by a more external attentional focus (52.38 ± 18.22 vs. 38.76 ± 17.81, p < .001). No differences were observed for remaining variables as a result of condition (p > .05 for all). When a headset-delivered VR program was used during a self-regulated vigorous-intensity exercise task, participants were 13.6 seconds (~3%) slower than in a control condition. Attentional focus was manipulated to be more external with VR use, which may have ultimately distracted from the exercise objective. Recommendations for selecting an appropriate virtual reality experience for a given exercise task are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPurposeMaterials and MethodsResults and Conclusions\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONWheelchair users experience many barriers to physical activity as affordable and accessible exercise equipment options are limited. Thus, the home-based adapted rower (aROW) and gym-based aROW were developed. The objectives were to determine: 1) wheelchair users’ preferences, perspectives, facilitators, and barriers to using the home-based versus the gym-based aROW, 2) perceived usability of the home and gym aROWs, and 3) recommendations to adapt the aROW further for home and community use.In this two-phase exploratory mixed-methods study, participants completed one month of using a home aROW, followed by one month of using a community gym aROW. After each phase, participants completed a semi-structured interview and the System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire. Interview data were analyzed using conventional content analysis and effect size comparing SUS data was calculated.Four categories were identified: what worked well, barriers to using the aROWs, what could be improved and important considerations. There was a large effect size in perceived usability between the aROWs with participants preferring the home aROW. Overall, rowing was enjoyable, and participants achieved positive physical outcomes. As preferences are individual, the home aROW provides wheelchair users with a potential choice between home or gym exercise.Rowing is an enjoyable and effective form of aerobic exercise for wheelchair usersWheelchair users experience social, environment and financial barriers to engaging in exerciseThe home aROW provides a low-cost and accessible option for wheelchair-adapted aerobic exerciseRowing is an enjoyable and effective form of aerobic exercise for wheelchair usersWheelchair users experience social, environment and financial barriers to engaging in exerciseThe home aROW provides a low-cost and accessible option for wheelchair-adapted aerobic exercise [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, often causing physical side effects like loss of muscle strength, reduced mobility, and fatigue. This study explores the impact of fixed-seat rowing (FSR) and sliding-seat rowing (SSR) on physical fitness and body composition in female breast cancer survivors to identify the more effective exercise modality. Forty participants rowed twice weekly for 24 weeks. The results indicate significant improvements in weight, body mass index, waist and hip circumference, muscle strength, aerobic capacity, and flexibility, with SSR showing better overall outcomes. These findings suggest that SSR may be a more beneficial exercise for breast cancer survivors. This research underscores the value of tailored exercise programs in improving recovery and quality of life for these women, potentially shaping future rehabilitation strategies within the research community. This study aimed to analyze the effects of a team rowing-based training program on physical fitness and anthropometric parameters in female breast cancer survivors (n = 40; 56.78 ± 6.38 years). The participants were divided into two groups: one rowed in fixed-seat rowing (FSR) boats (n = 20; 56.35 ± 4.89 years), and the other rowed in sliding-seat rowing (SSR) boats (n = 20; 57.20 ± 7.7 years). Both groups engaged in two 75 min sessions per week for 24 weeks. Significant improvements were observed in both groups in terms of weight (FSR: −1.93 kg, SSR: −1.75 kg), body mass index (FSR: −0.73 kg/m2, SSR: −0.67 kg/m2), waist circumference (FSR: −2.83 cm, SSR: −3.66 cm), and hip circumference (FSR: −2.02 cm, SSR: −2.88 cm). Muscle strength improved in the lower extremities (jump test: FSR: 2.99 cm, SSR: 3.11 cm) and upper extremities (dominant: FSR: 4.13 kgf, SSR: 4.34 kgf; non-dominant: FSR: 3.67 kgf, SSR: 3.32 kgf). Aerobic capacity also improved, with the SSR group showing a greater increase (FSR: 63.05 m, SSR: 93.65 m). Flexibility tests revealed better results in the SSR group for both dominant (SSR: 1.75 cm vs. FSR: −5.55 cm) and non-dominant limbs (SSR: 1.72 cm vs. FSR: −3.81 cm). These findings suggest that the type of rowing modality can influence physical fitness outcomes, with the SSR group showing superior improvements compared to the FSR group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 5th Preeclampsia Scientific Symposium (PSS2023) organized by Action on Preeclampsia (APEC) Ghana was themed: 'Realign, Refocus: Improving outcomes of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy through Shared Decision Making, Research & Quality of Care'. It took place on the 18th and 19th of May 2023 at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons (GCPS), Accra Ghana. This transdisciplinary symposium brought together a national representation of experts, policy makers, scientists, and healthcare professionals to discuss key priorities, opportunities, approaches, and strategies to improve the maternal and perinatal outcomes of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) in Ghana and the sub-region. The symposium centered around three key themes: realigning/refocusing patient-doctor decision making processes to improve outcomes of HDP; realigning/refocusing clinical care to improve outcomes of HDP; and leveraging on research to predict, recognize and manage high-risk women. This report summarizes insights from the diverse presentations and discussions held at the #PSS2023. This will form a roadmap for future research, policy, and interventions to improve outcomes of HDP in Ghana and the sub-region. The symposium provided a wealth of evidence and knowledge from various experts, highlighting the need for women-centered care, equitable re-allocation of resources, multi-sectoral and innovative approaches, capacity strengthening. Other highlights include knowledge base development and increased stakeholder and community engagement with an overall aim of improving outcomes of HDP. The symposium also fostered inclusivity, welcoming survivors of HDP and their families at a scientific platform. They provided invaluable insights into the challenges faced and the lived experiences of those affected by the disease. Trainees and students also benefited from the symposium as it provided networking opportunities with fellow researchers, and a front row to gaining insights into cutting-edge research in Ghana. Highlights: • Nearing the completion of the SDG's, engaging multi-sectoral and transdisciplinary perspectives, tools and systems is critical to improving treatment outcomes for women who develop preeclampsia in Ghana. • Women play a pivotal role in decision-making regarding their care, and maternity services ought to cater to their unique requirements. • Tackling the primary obstacles to delivering preeclampsia care in resource-limited settings holds significant promise for enhancing outcomes for both mothers and newborns. • Research priority-setting offers a feasible approach to empower patients by improving their awareness, confidence, networks, and capabilities to engage in research, while also ensuring that their choices and preferences are valued and honored. • The latest developments in predicting, preventing, and managing preeclampsia hold the potential to enhance outcomes for both mothers and babies in this life-threatening condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: For the downstream nociceptive processing of elite athletes, recent studies indicate that athletes probably tolerate more pain as compared with a normally active population. Phenotyping the nociceptive processing of athletes in different types of endurance sports can provide insight into training-specific effects, which may help in understanding the long-term effects of specific exercise. Methods: Twenty-six elite endurance athletes from the disciplines of rowing, triathlon, and running and 26 age- and sex-matched, recreationally active control subjects who participated in the subjective pain perception and processing of standardized noxious stimuli were investigated by EEG. This included standardized heat pain thresholds (HPT) and contact heat-evoked potentials from heat stimulation, measured with EEG as well as pinprick-evoked potentials from mechanical stimulation. Results: After noxious stimulation, athletes showed a higher activation of the event-related spectral perturbation (ERSP) patterns in the N2P2 EEG response at the Cz Electrode compared with the controls. After noxious contact heat stimulation, triathletes had a higher ERSP activation compared with the controls, whereas the rowers had a higher ERSP activation after noxious mechanical stimulation. Also, HPT in triathletes were increased despite their increased central activation after thermal stimulation. We found a correlation between increased HPT and training hours and years, although athletes did not differ within these variables. Conclusions: Although we were able to identify differences between athletes of different endurance sports, the reasons and implications of these differences remain unclear. The study of sport-specific somatosensory profiles may help to understand the mechanisms of exercise-related long-term effects on pain processing and perception. Furthermore, sport-specific somatosensory effects may support the personalization of exercise interventions and identify risk factors for chronic pain in elite athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Citrulline (CIT) and beetroot extract (BR) have separately shown benefits in rowing performance-related outcomes. However, effects of combined supplementation remain to be elucidated. The main purpose of this research was to study the effects of 1 week of daily co-supplementation of 3.5 g BR (500 mg NO3−) plus 6 g CIT on aerobic performance, maximal strength, and high-intensity power and peak stroke in elite male rowers compared to a placebo and to a BR supplementation. Methods: 20 elite rowers participated in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial completing 1 week of supplementation in each group of study: Placebo group (PLAG); BR group (BRG); and BR + CIT group (BR-CITG). 3 main physical tests were performed: aerobic performance, Wingate test and CMJ jump, and metabolic biomarkers and physiological outcomes were collected. Results: The Wingate all-out test showed no between-condition differences in peak power, mean power, relative power, or fatigue index (P > 0.05), but clearance of lactate was better in BR-CITG (P < 0.05). In the performance test, peak power differed only between PLAG and BR-CITG (P = 0.036), while VO2peak and maximum heart rate remained similar. CMJ jumping test results showed no between-condition differences, and blood samples were consistent (P > 0.200). Conclusion: Supplementation with 3.5 g of BR extract plus 6 g of CIT for 7 days improved lactate clearance after Wingate test and peak power in a performance test. No further improvements were found, suggesting longer period of supplementation might be needed to show greater benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This controlled intervention study examined the effects of low-intensity rowing with blood flow restriction (BFR) on maximal oxygen uptake (...O2max), peak power output during ramp testing (PPO), and 2000-m time trial performance (P2k). Eleven, highly elite, male rowers (22.1 ± 1.6 years; 92.6 ± 3.8 kg; 1.93 ± 0.04 m; 7.9. ± 2.2 years rowing experience; 20.4 ± 2.0 h⋅w-1 training volume; 11.9 ± 1.1 session per week) trained 5 weeks without BFR (Base) followed by a 5-week BFR intervention period. BFR of the lower limb was applied through customized elastic wraps. BFR took place 3 times a week (accumulated net pBFR: 60 min⋅wk-1; occlusion per session: 2 times 10 min⋅session-1) and was used exclusively at low intensities (<2 mmol⋅L-1). ...O2max, PPO, and P2k were examined before, between, and after both intervention periods. Bayesian's credible intervals revealed relevantly increased ...O2max +0.30 L⋅min-1 (95% credible interval: +0.00 to +0.61 L⋅min-1) adaptations through BFR. By contrast, PPO +14 W (-6to+34 W and P2k -5W(-14 to +3 W) were not noticeably affected by the BFR intervention. This study revealed that 15 sessions of BFR application with a cumulative total BFR load of 5 h over a 5-week macrocycle increased ...O2max remarkably. Thus, pBFR might serve as a promising tool to improve aerobic capacity in highly trained elite rowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to identify the relationship of body measurements to the level and digital achievement of 2000-meter rowing players in the 2023 Asian Cup Championship, and to identify the contribution of body measurements to the digital level of 2000-meter rowing players, and to identify the extent of the efficiency of body measurement variables in predicting the level and digital achievement of rowing players, while the research sample was represented by the players of the national rowing team participating in the Asian Cup Championship held in Iran 2023, numbering (15) players who were selected intentionally, as well as the arithmetic mean and deviation Standard, simple correlation coefficient, multiple regression coefficient by regression method, and regression coefficient by stepwise regression method, by using the statistical bag spss to reach the results, and the most important conclusions that appeared were that the body measurements have a high significant correlation with the level and digital achievement of rowers, while it appeared that the body measurements also have high contribution rates to the level and digital achievement of rowers

Sports nutrition is a topic that is often misinterpreted and sometimes abused. The often-used ''shot-gun'' method to meeting caloric needs by simply increasing caloric intake disregarding nutrient source is scientifically contrary to the need for a more careful study of the nutritional requirements of rowers.Rowing by itself is a very demanding sport as typical training sessions use exercise intensities that range from very low submaximal work to short term supramaximal efforts. The intake in calories should take into account also the type of race that the athlete will afford.In the case of the rower Giovanni Ficarra who won, in 16 months, three world competitions in the three different rowing disciplines, his dietary needs and training schedule significantly changed according to the type of competition, to be prepared for the extreme load of physical effort required to get the podium in such different conditions. This article in intended to provide recommendation for both coaches and athletes that are approaching rowing in its whole meaning and disciplines as Giovanni Ficarra did.

Many outdoor adventure activities (OAA) help to develop all three learning domains (psychomotor, cognitive, and affective), and are also tied to many physical and mental health benefits across the entire lifespan. This article highlights the benefits of incorporating OAA into the physical education curriculum and describes three ways to deliver onsite and offsite orienteering activities as part of an OAA unit in an elementary school setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To analyze the physical profile and training program of a world-class lightweight double sculls rowing crew toward the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Method: A case study in which both rowers performed physical testing in November 2020 and April 2021 (anthropometrics, incremental rowing test, and power profiling). The training program (38 wk) in the buildup to the Olympics was analyzed, providing insight into training characteristics (volume; contribution of rowing, alternative, and strength training; prescribed and recorded [heart rate] training-intensity distribution). The entire period was split into 3 phases: preparation period (8 wk), competition period 1 (11 wk), and competition period 2 (9 wk), and training characteristics were compared. Results: In the April 2021 testing, rower A (1.89 m, 74.6 kg, 4.4% body fat) had a peak oxygen uptake of 5.8 L·min−1 (77.8 mL·min−1·kg−1) and a peak power output of 491 W. Rower B (1.82 m, 70.6 kg, 7.8% body fat) had a peak oxygen uptake of 5.5 L·min−1 (77.9 mL·min−1·kg−1) and a peak power output of 482 W. The mean weekly training volume was 14 hours 47 minutes (4 h 5 min), of which 58.5% (14.6%) consisted of rowing, 13.4% (6.8%) strength training, and 28.1% (2.6%) alternative training. Heart-rate training-intensity distribution was 77.8% (4.2%) in zone 1, 16.6% (3.7%) in zone 2, and 5.6% (2.8%) in zone 3 with a lower contribution of zone 1 in competition period 1 (P =.029) and competition period 2 (P =.023) compared with the preparation period, and a higher contribution of zone 3 in competition period 1 (P =.018) and competition period 2 (P =.011) compared with the preparation period. Conclusion: The crew combined a high volume of rowing, alternative, and strength training in a pyramidal heart-rate training-intensity distribution throughout the year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]