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Relationship between rowing ergometer performance and physiological responses to upper and lower body exercises in
Toivo Jürimäe1, Jose A Perez-Turpin, Joan M Cortell-Tormo
1Faculty of Exercise and Sport Sciences, Centre of Behavioural and Health Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia. toivo.jurimae@ut.ee
This study compared rowing ergometer tests with bench pull and leg press exercises in college rowers. Leg press exercise showed a significant correlation with rowing performance, suggesting its utility in assessing strength endurance.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Rowing performance relies on both upper and lower body strength.
- Understanding the physiological demands of different exercise modalities is crucial for optimizing training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare physiological responses between a 2000m rowing ergometer test and 7-minute bench pull and leg press tests.
- To investigate the contribution of leg press and bench pull exercises to rowing performance.
Main Methods:
- 12 college-level rowers completed a 2000m rowing test followed by bench pull and leg press tests (50% 1RM) on separate days.
- Measurements included stroke rate, heart rate (HR), blood lactate (LA), and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE).
Main Results:
- Significant differences were observed in mean and maximal HR between the rowing, leg press, and bench pull tests.
- Blood lactate levels were highest after the rowing test.
- Leg press exercise demonstrated significant correlations with mean and maximal HR, RPE, and rowing test time.
Conclusions:
- Physiological adaptations to upper body and leg exercises differ significantly in rowers, even at similar intensities.
- Leg press exercise may be a valuable tool for assessing sport-specific strength endurance in rowers.
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