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An ergonomic comparison of rowing machine designs: possible implications for safety
I A Bernstein1, O Webber, R Woledge
1UCL Institute of Human Performance, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital Trust, Brockley Hill, Stanmore, Middlesex HA7 4LP, UK. ibernstein@gordonhouse.freeserve.co.uk
British Journal of Sports Medicine
|March 28, 2002
Summary
Fixed power head ergometers may increase injury risk due to longer stroke lengths and higher forces. Floating power heads showed no significant changes in stroke length with fatigue, suggesting potential for reduced rowing injuries.
Area of Science:
- Sports biomechanics
- Exercise physiology
- Injury prevention
Background:
- Ergometer training is prevalent in rowing, but often leads to injuries.
- Understanding ergonomic risk factors in ergometer design is crucial for injury prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare ergonomic risk factors between fixed and floating power head designs in rowing ergometers.
- To investigate the impact of power head design on rowing biomechanics during fatiguing exercise.
Main Methods:
- A randomized crossover study involving six elite male rowers.
- Participants completed fatiguing 20-minute rowing pieces using both fixed and floating power heads.
- Motion analysis and ergometer data were collected to measure displacement, force, work, and power output.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in total work, power per stroke, or metabolic load were observed between designs.
- Fatigue led to a significant decrease in power output per stroke (9.7 W/stroke).
- The fixed power head resulted in longer stroke lengths (53 mm) and increased mean force per stroke (12.1%) compared to the floating design.
Conclusions:
- Longer stroke lengths and greater forces are postulated as risk factors for soft tissue injuries in rowers.
- Floating power head designs may be associated with lower injury rates, warranting further investigation.
- Future research should focus on the clinical implications of power head design on rowing-related injuries.
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