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Background Beetroot juice (BRJ) intake has been considered a practical nutritional strategy among well-trained athletes. This study aimed to assess the effects of BRJ intake on performance, cardiorespiratory and metabolic variables during a simulated 2000-meter rowing ergometer test in well-trained master rowers.Method Ten well-trained male master rowers (30–48 years) participated in a randomized, double-blind, crossover design for 3 weeks. In the first week, a researcher explained all the experimental procedures to the participants. In the next two weeks, the participants were tested in 2 rowing ergometer sessions, separated from each other by a 7-day washout period. In both strictly identical sessions, the participants randomly drank BRJ or placebo (PL) 3 hours before the start of the tests. Subsequently, the participants carried out the 2000-meter rowing ergometer tests. Oxygen saturation and blood lactate measurements were performed before starting (pretest) and at the end of the test (posttest). Performance parameters and cardiorespiratory variables were recorded during the rowing ergometer test.Results An improvement in time trial performance was observed, with a mean difference of 4 seconds (90% confidence limits ± 3.10; p ≤ 0.05) compared to PL. Relative and absolute [Formula: see text] increased (mean difference of 2.10 mL·kg−1·min−1, 90% confidence limits ± 1.80; mean difference of 0.16 L·min−1 90% confidence limits ± 0.11, respectively; p ≤ 0.05) compared to PL. No ergogenic effect was observed on ventilatory efficiency and blood lactate concentrations after BRJ intake.Conclusion Acute BRJ intake may improve time trial performance as well as [Formula: see text] in well-trained master rowers. However, BRJ does not appear to improve ventilatory efficiency.

In this paper, we present a quantitative assessment of muscle fatigue using surface electromyography (sEMG), a widely recognized method that is conducted through various analytical approaches, including analysis of spectral and time-frequency distributions. Existing research in this field has demonstrated considerable variability in the computational methods used. Although some studies highlight the efficacy of wavelet analysis in dynamic motion, few offer a comprehensive method for determining fatigue and applying it to specific movements. Previous research has focused primarily on discerning differences based on sport type or gender, with a notable absence of studies that presented results for quantifying fatigue during exercise with rowing ergometers. Developing on our previous work, where we introduced a method for determining muscle fatigue through wavelet analysis, considering biomechanical aspects of limb position changes, this current article serves as a continuation. Our study refines the research approach for a selected group, focusing on fatigue determination using the previously established method. The results obtained confirm the effectiveness of DWT analysis in assessing muscle fatigue, as evidenced by the achievement of negative values of the regression coefficients of Median Frequency (MDF) during exercises performed to maximal fatigue. Furthermore, it has been confirmed that the homogeneity of the group and, in the case of the examined group, the results previously achieved or lower limb strength do not have an impact on the results. Finally, we discuss the main limitations of our study and outline the subsequent steps of our investigation, providing valuable information for future investigations in this field.

Background: Stationary (SE) and dynamic (DE) rowing ergometers, that are utilized for indoor training and physical assessment of competitive rowers, may elicit different physiological and biomechanical responses. The present study used SE and DE ergometers to examine submaximal and peak physiological and biomechanical responses during an incremental rowing test. Methods: Twelve National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I oarswomen performed seven-stage rowing tests with the last stage performed with maximal effort. Heart rate (HR), lactate (LA), oxygen uptake (VO2), ventilation (VE), stroke rate (SR), gross efficiency (GE), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were obtained; while trunk, hip, knee, shoulder, and elbow ranges of motion (ROM) were measured. Results: SR was higher at maximal stage DE (29.3 vs. 34.8 strokes/min, p = 0.018, d = 1.213). No difference occurred in responses of maximal stage HR, RPE, VO2, VE, LA, or GE between the two ergometers. Submaximal LA and SR were greater on the DE for all submaximal stages. Submaximal VE was greater on the DE for all submaximal stages except Stage 3 (p = 0.160, d = 0.655). VO2 was higher on the DE Stages 2–5. GE was higher on the SE for Stages 2–5. Athletes showed increased trunk (p = 0.025, η p 2 = 0.488) and knee (p = 0.004, η p 2 = 0.668) ROM on SE. Conclusion: Rowing on the DE appears to elicit a greater stroke rate and more optimal joint angles especially at high intensities. Hence, the DE is worthy of consideration as a preferred ergometer for women rowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this publication was to propose a method to determine changes in fatigue in selected muscle groups of the lower extremity during dynamic and cyclical motion performed on a rowing ergometer. The study aimed to use the discrete wavelet transform (DWT) to analyze electromyographic signals (EMG) recorded during diagnostic assessment of muscle and peripheral nerve electrical activity (electroneurography) using an electromyography device (EMG). Methods: The analysis involved implementing calculations such as mean frequency (MNF) and median frequency (MDF) using the reconstructed EMG signal through DWT. The study examined the efficacy of DWT analysis in assessing muscle fatigue after physical exertion. Results: The study obtained a negative regression coefficient for DWT analysis in all muscles except for the right gastrocnemius (GAS). The results suggest that DWT analysis can be an effective tool for evaluating muscle fatigue after physical exertion. Conclusions: The use of DWT in the analysis of EMG signals during rowing ergometer exercises has shown promising results in assessing muscle fatigue. However, additional investigations are necessary to confirm and expand these findings. This publication addresses the literature gap on the determination of muscle fatigue considering motion analysis on a rowing ergometer using the discrete wavelet transform. Previous studies have extensively compared and analyzed methods such as the Fourier transform (FFT), short-time Fourier transform (STFT), and wavelet transform (WT) for muscle fatigue analysis. However, no previous work has specifically examined the assessment of muscle fatigue by incorporating DWT analysis with motion analysis on a rowing ergometer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern diagnostics in rowing enables more and more possibilities for recording, and comparing numerous stroke variables. At the same time, many coaches fall into the trap of strict respect for the prescribed norms, ratios, and temporarily results, which the athlete must achieve if he wants to stay in the world of competitive rowing. On the example of the comparison of rowing schools RC "Danubius" and RC "Partizan", descriptive indicators are on the side of RC "Danubius" at a time of 2000m, average force and average power. No significant differences were found in average force (sig = 0,167) between rowers of RC "Danubius" and RC "Partizan", while statistically significant differences were recorded in time at 2000m (sig = 0,036) and power (sig = 0,02) in favor of rowers of RC “Danubius”. On the other hand, a higher correlation of average force (-0,955) and power (-0,928) with time on 2000m was achieved by RC "Partizan" than RC "Danubius" (-0,931) and (-0,896). The correlation between the average force, and the average power within one team shows a higher correlation for RC “Partizan" (0,95) compared to RC "Danubius" (0,755). The obtained results are not enough for single rower or crew elimination from competition to recreational section in the process of too frequent and strict selection of rowers, considering different possible ways of building rowing techniques and numerous parasitic factors that may affect measured variables, specialy at the age under 14 and novice rowers in general.

Background: Beetroot juice (BRJ) intake has been considered a practical nutritional strategy among well-trained athletes. This study aimed to assess the effects of BRJ intake on performance, cardiorespiratory and metabolic variables during a simulated 2000-meter rowing ergometer test in well-trained master rowers., Method: Ten well-trained male master rowers (30-48 years) participated in a randomized, double-blind, crossover design for 3 weeks. In the first week, a researcher explained all the experimental procedures to the participants. In the next two weeks, the participants were tested in 2 rowing ergometer sessions, separated from each other by a 7-day washout period. In both strictly identical sessions, the participants randomly drank BRJ or placebo (PL) 3 hours before the start of the tests. Subsequently, the participants carried out the 2000-meter rowing ergometer tests. Oxygen saturation and blood lactate measurements were performed before starting (pretest) and at the end of the test (posttest). Performance parameters and cardiorespiratory variables were recorded during the rowing ergometer test., Results: An improvement in time trial performance was observed, with a mean difference of 4 seconds (90% confidence limits ± 3.10; p  ≤ 0.05) compared to PL. Relative and absolute maximaloxygenuptake V ˙ O 2 max increased (mean difference of 2.10 mL·kg -1 ·min -1 , 90% confidence limits ± 1.80; mean difference of 0.16 L·min -1 90% confidence limits ± 0.11, respectively; p  ≤ 0.05) compared to PL. No ergogenic effect was observed on ventilatory efficiency and blood lactate concentrations after BRJ intake., Conclusion: Acute BRJ intake may improve time trial performance as well as V ˙ O 2 max in well-trained master rowers. However, BRJ does not appear to improve ventilatory efficiency.

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The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effects of normobaric hypoxic training by rowing ergometer on aerobic performance and anaerobic threshold. Fourteen healthy male participants perform 30 min of continuous training in either a normoxic (FiO2 = 0.209) or hypoxic (FiO2 = 0.145) condition. The participants were randomly assigned into two groups, with 7 participants per group. Both the Control (n = 7) and Hypoxic (n = 7) group participants exercised on a rowing ergometer at an intensity corresponding to 80-90% of heart rate at anaerobic threshold attained in normoxia. Before the training (PRE), after three-week training (MID) and after six-week training (POST), the subject's aerobic performance and anaerobic threshold were determined by 7x4 rowing ergometer incremental test under the normoxic condition. The results showed that there was a significant improvement in the normoxic anaerobic threshold only for the Hypoxic groups (p<0.05) at PRE-training compared to POST-training value. There was no difference in normoxic aerobic performance and the normoxic anaerobic threshold between the Control group; CON and the Hypoxic group; HYP (p<0.05). In conclusion, the normobaric hypoxic training protocol manipulated in this experiment had a significant effect on development in the anaerobic threshold but no significant difference between Control and Hypoxic groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paralympic rowers with functional impairments of the legs and trunk rely on appropriate seat configurations for performance. We compared performance, physiology, and biomechanics of an elite Paralympic rower competing in the PR1 class during ergometer rowing in a seat with three different seat and backrest inclination configurations. Unlike able-bodied rowers, PR1 rowers are required to use a seat with a backrest. For this study, we examined the following seat/backrest configurations: conA: 7.5°/25°, conB: 0°/25°, and conC: 0°/5° (usually used by the participant). All data was collected on a single day, i.e., in each configuration, one 4-min submaximal (100 W) and one maximal (all-out) stage was performed. The rowing ergometer provided the average power and (virtual) distance of each stage, while motion capture provided kinematic data, a load cell measured the force exerted on the ergometer chain, and an ergospirometer measured oxygen uptake (V˙O2). Where appropriate, a Friedman's test with post-hoc comparisons performed with Wilcoxon signed-ranked tests identified differences between the configurations. Despite similar distances covered during the submaximal intensity (conA: 793, conB: 793, conC: 787 m), the peak force was lower in conC (conA: 509, conB: 458, conC: 312 N) while the stroke rate (conA: 27 conB: 31, conC: 49 strokes·min−1) and V˙O2 (conA: 34.4, conB: 35.4, conC: 39.6 mL·kg−1·min−1) were higher. During the maximal stage, the virtual distances were 7–9% longer in conA and conB, with higher peak forces (conA: 934 m, 408 N, conB: 918 m, 418 N, conC: 856 m, 331 N), and lower stroke rates (conA: 51, conB: 54, conC: 56 strokes·min−1), though there was no difference in V˙O2peak (~47 ml−1·kg−1·min−1). At both intensities, trunk range of motion was significantly larger in configurations conA and conB. Although fatigue may have accumulated during the test day, this study showed that a more inclined seat and backrest during ergometer rowing improved the performance of a successful Paralympic PR1 rower. The considerable increase in ergometer rowing performance in one of the top Paralympic rowers in the world is astonishing and highlights the importance of designing equipment that can be adjusted to match the individual needs of Paralympic athletes.

Kettlebell lifting has become popular both as a strength and conditioning training tool and as a sport in and of itself: Girevoy Sport (GS). Although several kettlebell multimovement protocols have been analyzed, little research has attempted to quantify the aerobic stimulus of the individual events in GS, which could better inform kettlebell-related exercise prescription. The purpose of this study was to quantify the cardiopulmonary demand, assessed primarily by oxygen consumption (V̇o2) and heart rate (HR), of continuous high-intensity kettlebell snatches—under conditions relevant to GS—and to compare this demand with a more traditional graded rowing ergometer maximal exercise test. Ten male participants (age = 28.4 ± 4.6 years, height = 185 ± 7 cm, body mass = 95.1 ± 14.9 kg) completed (a) a graded-exercise test on a rowing ergometer to determine maximal oxygen consumption (V̇o2max) and maximal heart rate (HRmax) and (b) a graded-exercise test consisting of continuous 16-kg kettlebell snatches to determine peak oxygen consumption (V̇o2peak) and peak heart rate (HRpeak) during a simulated GS snatch event. Subjects achieved a V̇o2max of 45.7 ± 6.7 ml·kg−1·min−1 and HRmax of 177 ± 8.3 b·min–1 on the rowing ergometer. The kettlebell snatch test produced a V̇o2peak of 37.6 ± 4.4 ml·kg−1·min−1 (82.7 ± 6.5% V̇o2max) and a HRpeak of 174 ± 10 b·min–1 (98.0 ± 3.4% HRmax). These findings suggest that GS kettlebell snatches with 16-kg can provide an adequate aerobic stimulus to improve cardiorespiratory fitness in those with a V̇o2max of ≤51 ml·kg−1·min−1, according to aerobic training recommendations from the American College of Sports Medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of thermal stress, such as sauna, on the physiological parameters of older, overweight and physically active former athletes remains insufficiently investigated. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of sauna first and then the combined effects of sauna and physical training on physiological parameters in overweight former elite athletes with hypertension and high levels of physical activity. Ten middle-aged former athletes who were overweight but physically active attended the first 10-minute sauna intervention (temperature 90-91°C; humidity: 14-16%) and the second intervention combining 20-minute training on a rowing ergometer training and a 10-minute sauna session one week later. Morphological and body composition parameters were determined before the first session. Heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) were measured before and after both training sessions. The participants were overweight (BMI -- 27.83±0.7 kg/m², PBF -- 22.65±4.6%) and had elevated lipid parameters (total cholesterol -- 210.20±39.7 mg/dl; HDL -- 40.00±7.9 mg/dL; LDL -- 122.21±14.48 mg/dl; triglycerides -- 200.00±96.07 mg/dl). The highest HR values were noted during rowing ergometer training (115.6±3.7 bpm), and the highest maximal values during sauna were observed after ergometer training (132.4±4.4 bpm). Two hours after sauna, BP values decreased to 142.3±2.7/91.7±2.7 mmHg, and a significant decrease to normal levels (135.6±3.9/84.3±3.5 mmHg) was observed after rowing ergometer training combined with sauna. In conclusion, 20-minute rowing ergometer training combined with a 10-minute sauna session significantly decreased blood pressure in former elite athletes. The lowest BP values were noted in the second hour of recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present a quantitative assessment of muscle fatigue using surface electromyography (sEMG), a widely recognized method that is conducted through various analytical approaches, including analysis of spectral and time-frequency distributions. Existing research in this field has demonstrated considerable variability in the computational methods used. Although some studies highlight the efficacy of wavelet analysis in dynamic motion, few offer a comprehensive method for determining fatigue and applying it to specific movements. Previous research has focused primarily on discerning differences based on sport type or gender, with a notable absence of studies that presented results for quantifying fatigue during exercise with rowing ergometers. Developing on our previous work, where we introduced a method for determining muscle fatigue through wavelet analysis, considering biomechanical aspects of limb position changes, this current article serves as a continuation. Our study refines the research approach for a selected group, focusing on fatigue determination using the previously established method. The results obtained confirm the effectiveness of DWT analysis in assessing muscle fatigue, as evidenced by the achievement of negative values of the regression coefficients of Median Frequency (MDF) during exercises performed to maximal fatigue. Furthermore, it has been confirmed that the homogeneity of the group and, in the case of the examined group, the results previously achieved or lower limb strength do not have an impact on the results. Finally, we discuss the main limitations of our study and outline the subsequent steps of our investigation, providing valuable information for future investigations in this field., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Daniel, Małachowski, Sybilski and Siemiaszko.)

With ergometers being frequently used in training programmes of rowers, consensus is needed to identify which design most closely reproduces the biomechanics of on-water rowing. Discussion exists about the movement allowed to the stretcher, with static designs fixating it, while dynamic models allowing displacement. To investigate how this affects muscular and kinematic coordination patterns, a group of nine male rowers were analysed whilst exercising on three ergometer designs, a static ergometer and two dynamic versions. 3D motion analysis was applied to measure displacement of body segments, joint angles and angular velocities. Electromyography was used to record activation patterns of major muscles. All participants were measured on all three ergometer designs; data were analysed using repeated measures ANOVA. Duration of the stroke phase turned out to be longer on the static ergometer and tibialis anterior and biceps femoris coordination patterns differed between static and dynamic ergometers. Kinematic data showed a more squatted posture at the end of recovery on the static ergometer. These differences were interpreted as distorted movement coordination resulting from the more inert moving mass on the static ergometer.

Aim of this study was to investigate changes in blood sugar level after aerobic workout on rowing ergometer. Tested group consisted of Slovak rowers (n: 6, average age: 22.2±4.9 years, average height: 183.5±4.0 cm, average weight: 79.5±6.0 kg). Group undertook 4 tests: lactate curve, glycaemic profile, rowing exercise at intensity of anaerobic threshold (IANT) and rowing exercise at intensity of aerobic threshold (IAT). Blood sugar level was measured during 120 min. intervals before workout and after workout with Accu-Chek Active unit. We used nonparametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test (p<0.05) for dependent files for evaluation of the results. Results have shown that the difference between average fluctuation of blood sugar during 120 minutes post- and pre-workout is not significant. Difference of glycaemia (by 2.2 mmol.l-1, 46% resp.) immediately before and after the IANT test was significant (p<0.05). Difference of glycaemia (by 0.4 mmol.l-1, 7% resp.) immediately before the IAT test and after the test was not significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case study reports the results of a 12-year (2005-2016) follow-up study of two Olympic champion rowers. The rowers were prospective athletes at the junior level when the study began, and we monitored their relevant physiological and performance data annually. Our findings indicated that their VO2max gradually increased up to about 22 years of age and leveled off at a value of approximately 7 l·min-1 with minimal fluctuations thereafter. However, the variables that directly influence the VO2max changed. There was an age-related decline in maximal heart rate of about 0.5 beats·year-1, while oxygen pulse, which serves as an indirect measure of stroke volume, correspondingly increased by about 1 ml O2·beat-1 per year, allowing the athletes to maintain exceptional VO2max values. Maximal minute power of the studied rowers, derived each year from their ramp-wise tests, closely resembled the mean power output sustained during the 2000-m all-out tests on a rowing ergometer. A 12-year improvement of 28% and 33% occurred for the mean power output sustained over 2000 and 6000-m on a rowing ergometer, respectively. The findings contribute to the body of knowledge on athletes representing the true elites of their respective sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of indirect methods of assessment of VO2max for estimation of physical capacity of trained male and female rowers during a training cycle. A group of 8 female and 14 male rowers performed the maximal intensity test simulating the regatta distance (a 2 km test) and a submaximal incremental exercise test on a rowing ergometer. The suitability of the indirect methods of predicting VO2max during the training cycle was evaluated by performing the tests twice: in females at an interval of five months and in males at an interval of seven months. To indirectly estimate VO2max, regression formulas obtained for the linear relationship between the examined effort indices were utilized based on 1) mean power obtained in the 2 km test, and 2) submaximal exercises after the estimation of PWC170. Although the suitability of the two indirect methods of assessment of VO2max was statisticaly confirmed, their usefulness for estimation of changes in physical fitness of trained rowers during the training cycle was rather low. Such an opinion stems from the fact that the total error of these methods (range between 4.2-7.7% in female and 5.1-7.4% in male rowers) was higher than the real differences in VO2max values determined in direct measurements (between the first and the second examination maximal oxygen uptake rose by 3.0% in female rowers and decreased by 4.3% in male rowers). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maximum oxygen consumption and maximum power output are critical measures for training prescription in endurance sports such as rowing. The objective of this investigation was twofold: to compare the physiological and mechanical responses of female and male traditional rowers during a graded exercise test and to establish reference values in this specific rowing modality that have not yet been documented, unlike in Olympic rowing. Twenty-one highly trained/national level rowers participated in the study: 11 female (age: 30.1 ± 10.6 years, height: 167.3 ± 5.0 cm, body mass: 61.9 ± 4.9 kg) and 10 males (age: 33.5 ± 6.6 years, height: 180.8 ± 6.9 cm, body mass: 74.4 ± 6.9 kg). Significant differences ( p < 0.05) were found in rowing performance between sexes, with a very large effect size ( d = 7.2). The peak power output for the female rowers was 180.9 ± 11.4 W and 287.0 ± 17.7 W for the male rowers. The female rowers reached a VO 2max of 51.2 ± 6.6 mL/kg/min at a mean of 174.5 ± 12.9 W, while the males' VO 2max was 62.1 ± 4.7 mL/kg/min at a mean of 280.0 ± 20.5 W. These differences in VO 2max and maximal aerobic capacity were significant ( p < 0.05), with a large ( d = 1.9) and very large ( d = 6.2) effect size, respectively. A moderate association between VO 2max, and rowing performance expressed in watts per kilogram of muscle mass was observed in the female rowers ( r = 0.40, p = 0.228). For the male rowers, the correlation between VO 2max and relative peak power output in watts per kilogram of body mass was strong ( r = 0.68; p = 0.031). This study highlights the differences in the kinetics of ventilatory and mechanical parameters between female and male rowers and the importance of these differences for specific physical preparation in traditional rowing.

The beneficial effect of adopting an external as opposed to an internal focus of attention during movement execution is well established for a range of motor tasks. As up-to-date findings in the field of endurance sports using physiological outcome measures are rare, the aim of this study was to examine attentional focus effects in rowing using oxygen consumption (...O2) as the main dependent variable. Eighteen experienced athletes rowed three times eight minutes at a submaximum intensity on a rowing ergometer. For each of the three rowing blocks they had to adopt a different focus of attention which was on leg movement (internal), on a video (external) or without instructions (control). Results revealed an increase in ...O2 in the internal focus condition compared with the external as well as with the control condition. We conclude that it is an internal focus that led to performance decrements rather than an external focus enhancing performance. The implications of these findings for application in practice are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goals of this article are to provide power-to-weight relationships, changes in which are predictive of changes in performance for athletics (running, jumping and throwing), for swimming and for rowing. Also this article will estimate improvements in the efficient application of power exhibited by Olympic champions in those same events over the span of the modern Games. For the former goal, the ergometer power output of an athlete, measured under laboratory conditions, is modeled in terms of training, lean body mass and a cranking term as reflected in upper arm and shoulder volume. The laws of physics are used to relate event performance to efficiency and to a power-to-weight relationship specific to each event, with both efficiency and power-to-weight raised to an exponent specific to each event. The power-to-weight relationship, in turn, depends on training and on a lean-to-total body mass relationship. The ratios of female/male Olympic championship performances are then used since significant differences may be observed. Further, the relative need for upper arm and shoulder strength may be estimated for throwing and rowing. Physiological values estimated from the ratio of female/male Olympic winning performances in athletics and swimming compare closely with actual physiological relationship, validating that analysis. Rowing relationships were also validated from performance-physiological considerations. Having validated the analysis, reliable relationships then follow between changes in the power-to-weight ratio and event performance. As to the latter goal, the observed mean improvement in winning performance per Olympiad is found for each event, leading to estimated efficiency improvement per Olympiad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of selected individual factors (independent variables) on the dependent variable of a simulated rowing distance in a group of physically inactive females. The independent variables were the women's age, body mass (kg) and height (cm), and the BMI index. The time required to cover the simulated distance of 1000 m was adopted as the dependent variable. The study involved 258 female students who participated only in the obligatory physical education classes. Research revealed that the relationships between anthropometric parameters and the time required to complete 1000 m on a rowing ergometer differ among physically inactive women and elite rowers. In both physically inactive women as well as elite rowers an increase in body height had a positive influence on the time (shorter time). In the case of body mass, its increase in our study subjects resulted in poorer times, which is contrary to the results of studies conducted on elite rowers. This is most likely due to the fact that the body mass of athletes consists mainly of lean body mass, whereas physically inactive females are characterized by a higher percentage of body fat. Moreover, the time taken to complete the rowing trial was shortest for students with BMI values ranging from 17 to 21. The conducted research led to the conclusion that the analyzed anthropometric parameters affect the time needed by women to cover a distance of 1000 m on a rowing ergometer. Further studies should be conducted to include additional anthropometric and physiological parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were to establish whether anthropometry, muscle strength and endurance accounted for differences between junior and senior elite rowing ergometer performance, and to determine annual development rates for juniors associated with training. Twenty-six junior (8 females, age 18.0±0.3 years and 18 males, age 17.9±0.2 years) and 30 senior (12 females, 23.7±3.0 years and 18 males, 24.0±3.9 years) heavyweight rowers, were assessed anthropometrically, performed a 2000-m ergometer time-trial, and completed various muscular strength and endurance tests. There were no anthropometrical differences between males; however after controlling for body-fat and standing-height, senior females were of greater body-mass (70.5±4.6 kg and 77.2±5.9 kg, P = 0.01) and sitting-height (89.8±2.2 cm and 92.2±6.1 cm, P = 0.04) than juniors. Moderate to very large standardised differences in all strength and endurance tests were observed between juniors and seniors (effect size (ES) range 0.9–1.9). Greater development rates (5.0% to 6.0%) and adjusted 2000-m performance was associated with upper-body strength (males) and endurance (females). In conclusion, after identification of desirable anthropometry, the 2000-m ergometer potential of juniors may be accounted for by upper-body strength and endurance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the impact of a high-intensity strength training session on rowing sprint performance. Ten male club rowers performed a baseline counter-movement jump (CMJ) and a 250 m rowing ergometer sprint (250 m). Twenty-four hours after baseline, participants performed a high-intensity strength training session (ST) consisting of multi-joint barbell exercises. At 24 h, 48 h and 72 h post-ST, CMJ and 250 m were repeated alongside assessment of plasma creatine kinase (CK) and perceived muscle soreness. At 24 h post-ST 250 m performance decreased significantly (90% CI: 0.3 - 0.7 s), but returned to pre-test values at 48 h. There was a significant decrease in CMJ height at 48 h post ST (90% CI: -0.7 - -4.1 cm). Perceived muscle soreness was significantly greater than baseline at all assessed time points following ST (p < 0.05). There was a significant increase in CK from baseline to 24 h (90% CI: 146 - 390 U/L). High-intensity strength training was observed to adversely affect 250 m rowing ergometer performance after 24 h and coincided with transient muscle damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case study reports the results of a 6-year (2005-2010) follow-up study of a world-class rowing crew, the current world champions. The rowers were 15-16 years old and prospective competitors at the junior level when the study began in 2005, and we monitored their physical, physiological, and rowing ergometer performance data annually. Our findings indicated that over the 6-year period gains in stature, averaged across rowers, amounted to only +2 cm (+1%). In contrast, body mass increased by +9 kg (+10%) and fat-free mass by +11 kg (+15%). A significant linear trend (R (2) = 0.998, P < 0.001) and a +26% increase in maximal oxygen uptake (in L min(-1)) was evident from 2005 to 2009, resulting in a leveling-off and a crew average of ~6.6 L min(-1) (~70 mL kg(-1) min(-1)) during the last 2 years of assessment. Power output at anaerobic threshold increased by +23%, subsequently amounting to a crew average of 359 W in 2010. Oxygen uptake at anaerobic threshold, expressed as a percentage of maximal oxygen uptake, changed little and ranged between 82 and 85%. A curvilinear regression provided the best fit to describe the 6-year improvement (+7%) in 2000 m (R (2) = 0.984, P < 0.001) and 6000 m (R (2) = 0.989, P < 0.001) rowing ergometer performance times. Performance-related physical and physiological parameters seem to level-off at about 20 years of age, which may partly explain the corresponding stabilization in ergometer performance times over the last years of assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the results of a study which investigated the relationship between the anaerobic threshold and heart rate deflection point of rowers. An overview of related previous research is provided, along with details of the experimental protocol, which involved a rowing ergometer exercise test. It was found that the two physiological measures exhibited significant correlation.

We evaluated (1) the test-retest reliability of the Wingate test conducted on a rowing ergometer, and (2) the sensitivity of this test in determining the differences in performance attained by 12- to 18-year-old rowers. Altogether, 297 male rowers aged 12.0-18.9 years (mean ± s: 14.8 ± 1.7) completed a maximal 30-s test on a rowing ergometer, and 80 rowers representing all age groups were retested after 5-7 days. No change was evident in participants' performance in terms of mean power output (P = 0.726; Cohen's d = 0.04), maximal power output (P = 0.567; Cohen's d = 0.06), and minimum power output (P = 0.318; Cohen's d = 0.11) in the second test. The intra-class correlation coefficients were high (≥0.973) and coefficients of variation were low (≤7.3%). A series of analyses of variance were used to compare the performances among 12- to 18-year-old rowers, and age-related increases in performance were evident (P < 0.001; Cohen's d = 1.91-1.96). The age-related increases in performance were similar, although reduced, when the effects of body mass were partitioned out when using analysis of covariance (P < 0.001; Cohen's d = 0.82-0.85). The results suggest that: (1) the described test is reliable and can be used for maximal-intensity exercise assessment in youth rowing, and (2) it discriminates performance among 12- to-18-year-old rowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to determine the accuracy and variability of an electromagnetic device in measuring spinal kinematics on a traditional and replica rowing ergometer. Kinematic data collected from the 3-Space FastrakTM system using a Standard Concept II ergometer were compared with a replica ergometer that was in part, composed of non-ferrous materials (modified ergometer). The Fastrak's sensors were fixed to a wooden “spine” with known angles (as measured by an inclinometer). The mean inclinometer angle from four sensors (1 ± 0.2°) was significantly different than the mean angle recorded on the standard ergometer ( - 5.4 ± 3.4°) (p = 0.007) whilst the angles recorded on the modified ergometer (1.4 ± 0.8°) were statistically equivalent to the inclinometer recordings (p = 0.660). These results indicate that the presence of ferrous material in a standard ergometer reduced the accuracy and increased the variability of data collected with the electromagnetic device. However, information collected on largely non-ferrous ergometers can provide coaches, biomechanists and clinicians with a quick and effective way to measure trunk kinematics during ergometer rowing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that large increases in blood lactate concentration ([La]b) and/or body temperature may occur during an endurance training on a rowing ergometer and disrupt training. The influence of an increase in air convection on the capacity to perform a prolonged exercise was also explored. Ten trained oarsmen were asked to undergo twice, in control (C) and increased air ventilation (AV) conditions, two 30-min trainings on a rowing ergometer at a work rate corresponding to 2.5 mmol·L-1 of [La]b determined during a previous incremental exercise (P2.5). Four subjects did not complete the training session in C despite a steady state in [La]b in two of them. In these four subjects, the end of the exercise was associated with the highest measured rectal temperatures (Tre, 39.4 ± 0.1 °C) and rate of perceived exertion (RPE, 17.8 ± 0.3). Regarding the six other subjects, their heart rate, oxygen uptake, RPE, Tre and water loss values were lower (p <0.05) in AV than in C. [La]b displayed the same profile in C and AV. This study suggests that i) high body temperature may constitute a significant factor of perceived exertion and disrupt indoor training session, and ii) capacity to perform an endurance training on a rowing ergometer was improved by increasing air convection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The maximal aerobic power ( V˙O2max) and maximal anaerobic capacity (AODmax) of 16 female rowers were compared to their peak aerobic power ( V˙O2peak) and peak anaerobic capacity (AODpeak, respectively) during a simulated 2-km race on a rowing ergometer. Each subject completed three tests, which included a 2-min maximal effort bout to determine the AODmax, a series of four, 4-min submaximal stages with subsequent progression to V˙O2max and a simulated 2-km race. Aerobic power was determined using an open-circuit system, and the accumulated oxygen deficit method was used to calculate anaerobic capacities from recorded mechanical power on a rowing ergometer. The average V˙O2peak (3.58 l · min−1), which usually occurred during the last minute of the race simulation, was not significantly different ( P > 0.05) from the V˙O2max (3.55 l · min−1). In addition, the rowers' AODmax (3.40 l) was not significantly different ( P > 0.05) from their AODpeak (3.50 l). The average time taken for the rowers to complete the 2-km race simulation was 7.5 min, and the anaerobic system (AODpeak) accounted for 12% of the rowers' total energy production during the race. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]