Ergometer sprint performance and recovery with variations in training load in elite rowers

The effects of 3 weeks of a 30% increase in training volume, followed by 1 week of reduced volume (approximately 75%) training, on ergometer sprint performance and physiological recovery responses, were determined from an initial group of ten male and eight female elite rowers. No significant (p > 0.05) differences in mean (+/- SD) 500 m time trial performances were found when comparing 500 m times prior to, and after 3 weeks of overload training (89.4 +/- 7.3 s vs. 88.1 +/- 7.3 s), or from the end of the overload training to after the regeneration week (88.6 +/- 6.8s), or over the full 4-week overload-regeneration cycle. Peak and recovery heart rate responses to the test did not differ with training. However, recovery blood lactate concentrations increased, and blood ammonia decreased, after the third and fourth weeks of training. The results indicate that 3 weeks of overload training did not compromise ergometer sprint performance, but altered the metabolic responses during passive recovery. A subsequent 1-week period of 25% reduced volume training was insufficient for positive regenerative adaptations and improved performance.