Assessing kinematics and kinetics of functional electrical stimulation rowing

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Hybrid functional electrical stimulation (FES) rowing improves cardiovascular fitness in spinal cord injury (SCI) individuals.
• Limited data exists on the biomechanics and mechanical efficiency of FES-rowing in SCI populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the biomechanics of FES-rowing in individuals with SCI.
• To compare kinematics, kinetics, and mechanical efficiency between able-bodied rowing and FES-rowing in SCI subjects at varying intensities.

Main Methods:

• Six individuals with SCI and six able-bodied subjects underwent a progressive aerobic capacity rowing test.
• Kinematics, kinetics, external mechanical work, and mechanical efficiency were compared at comparable subpeak workloads.

Main Results:

• FES-rowing maintained a constant stroke rate, unlike able-bodied rowing which increased stroke rate by decreasing recovery time.
• Able-bodied rowers increased both leg and arm forces with intensity; FES-rowers relied solely on arm force.
• Able-bodied rowers exhibited twice the mechanical efficiency of FES-rowers, with greater oxygen consumption increase.

Conclusions:

• FES-rowing allows whole-body exercise but results in modest leg loading, potentially limiting overall performance and bone-applied forces.
• Differences in force production and efficiency highlight distinct biomechanical strategies between able-bodied and FES-rowing in SCI.