Development of a rowing-specific VO2max field test

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Biometrics

Background:

• Assessing aerobic capacity is crucial for optimizing athletic performance in rowing.
• Existing maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) tests often require specialized laboratory equipment.
• Field-deployable tests are needed for accessible and practical athlete assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a minimal-equipment aerobic capacity test for rowers suitable for field use.
• To compare directly measured VO2max with predicted values derived from a novel field test protocol.
• To evaluate the test's predictive accuracy separately for male and female rowers.

Main Methods:

• A 7-stage, 2-minute incremental rowing ergometer test with 30-second rest periods was administered.
• Expired gases were collected for direct VO2max measurement.
• Lactic acid concentrations and peak heart rates were recorded during testing.
• Regression equations were developed to predict VO2max based on heart rate data for men and women.

Main Results:

• Predicted VO2max values were 23% lower for men and 25% lower for women compared to directly measured values.
• Heart rate showed a moderate, significant correlation with VO2max in men (r = 0.55, p = 0.05).
• No significant correlation was observed between heart rate and VO2max in women (r = -0.05, p > 0.85).

Conclusions:

• The developed field test adequately predicted VO2max in male rowers.
• The test's predictive accuracy for VO2max was inadequate in female rowers.
• Modifications to the testing protocol are recommended to improve VO2max prediction accuracy for women.