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Published on: January 28, 2020
Stroke power consistency and 2000 m rowing performance in varsity rowers
M Shimoda1, T Fukunaga, M Higuchi
1Faculty of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan.
Rowing performance in a 2000 m race depends on maximal oxygen uptake, leg power, and consistent stroke power. Stroke power consistency is crucial for maintaining performance during ergometer rowing.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Rowing performance is influenced by physiological and biomechanical factors.
- Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and leg power are established predictors of rowing success.
- The role of stroke power consistency in rowing performance requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between stroke power consistency and 2000 m rowing time.
- To determine the predictive value of VO2max, leg extension power, and stroke power consistency on rowing performance.
Main Methods:
- 16 male varsity rowers completed an incremental rowing test to exhaustion to measure VO2max.
- Stroke power consistency was assessed using the coefficient of variation of power (CVPhigh) at maximal workload.
- 2000 m all-out rowing performance and leg extension power were also measured.
Main Results:
- Stepwise multiple regression revealed that VO2max, leg extension power, and CVPhigh significantly predicted 2000 m rowing time.
- CVPhigh showed a notable correlation with the residuals of the regression between rowing time and VO2max.
- These findings highlight the importance of consistent power output during rowing.
Conclusions:
- Stroke power consistency is a significant contributing factor to 2000 m rowing performance.
- Optimizing stroke power consistency, alongside VO2max and leg power, may enhance ergometer rowing efficiency.
- Future research should explore training interventions to improve stroke power consistency in rowers.
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