Does a bout of strength training affect 2,000 m rowing ergometer performance and rowing-specific maximal power 24 h...

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Athletic Performance

Background:

• Rowers frequently combine strength training with rowing sessions within 24 hours.
• The physiological impact of this concurrent training strategy on rowing performance is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of a high-intensity strength training bout on 2,000m rowing ergometer performance.
• To assess the impact on rowing-specific maximal power and markers of muscle damage.

Main Methods:

• Eight highly trained male rowers underwent baseline testing of jump performance, maximal power output, and a 2,000m rowing test.
• Participants completed a high-intensity strength training session.
• Performance, muscle soreness, creatine kinase (CK), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were measured at various time points post-strength training (2, 24, and 48 hours).

Main Results:

• Significant increases in muscle soreness, CK, and LDH indicated muscle damage post-strength training.
• Rowing-specific maximal power (static squat jumps, countermovement jumps, power strokes) decreased by 3-10% at all measured time points.
• Despite decrements in maximal power, 2,000m rowing performance, heart rate, and blood lactate levels remained unaffected.

Conclusions:

• A single bout of high-intensity strength training induces muscle damage and reduces maximal power in trained rowers.
• Concurrent strength training does not appear to impair 2,000m rowing ergometer performance in this population.
• Further research could explore optimal recovery strategies and training periodization for rowers undertaking concurrent training.