Kinematic Analysis of Olympic and Traditional Rowing Mechanics at different Stroke Rates

Rowing requires strength, endurance, and technique, where stroke efficiency depends on body mechanics, movement sequencing, and stroke rate, which impact speed transfer. This cross-sectional study investigates the role of kinematic differences in stroke mechanics as a key component of performance analysis in Olympic and Traditional rowing. Thirteen elite national-level female rowers (age: 26.9 ± 5.1 years; body mass: 60.6 ± 6.9 kg; height: 166.7 ± 6.7 cm) performed three stroke-rate conditions on two ergometer setups: an Olympic rowing ergometer and a modified ergometer with a static seat replicating Traditional rowing. The stroke rates included 18 spm (120 s), 24 spm (100 s), and 30 spm (60 s), with 2-minute rest intervals between sets. Kinematic data, including leg and trunk angles at the catch and finish, as well as leg, trunk, and arm velocities, were captured using an automated analysis system. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant interactions between rowing modality and stroke rate for leg catch angle (η ² =0.254; p=0.05), trunk finish angle (η ² =0.352; p=0.013), leg velocity (η ² =0.624; p<0.001), trunk velocity (η ² =0.665; p<0.001), and arm velocity (η ² =0.348; p=0.014). These findings emphasize distinct biomechanical patterns between modalities, which are crucial for technical optimization and individualized training. Performance analysis of angles and velocities provides valuable insights into improving rowing efficiency and addressing technical deficiencies in each modality.