From Underperformance to Olympic Finals in a World-Class Male Single Sculler: A Case Study

To report on the factors associated with underperformance in a world-class male rower and the training intervention and supporting actions implemented to facilitate recovery for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Amale single sculler (age: 29 y, height: 185 cm, and mass: 83 kg) suffered from underperformance, characterized by ∼5% to 7% drop in maximal and submaximal power-output indices, perceived severe fatigue, and emotional changes, likely associated with intensive training and competition, illness, environmental stress, and extensive international travel. A22-week training program was implemented to facilitate recovery and regain fitness.

Training frequency progressed slowly (6-17 sessions/wk). Volume remained relatively low throughout (∼14 h/wk), with a strong emphasis on low-intensity training (95% below the individual lactate threshold). At week 13, a 9-week phase of low-volume (5%) high-intensity interval training was introduced: 4 weeks submaximal (4-6 × 3 min at 90% maximal aerobic power) and 5 weeks supramaximal (4-8 × 30 s at 120% maximal aerobic power or maximal effort) intervals for 3 sessions/week. This was coupled with direct training supervision, continuous program adjustment based on the athlete's and coach's technical observations, and careful attention to the athlete's recovery, nutrition, sleep, and confidence. The athlete successfully regained fitness and qualified for the Olympic finals, where he placed ninth (0.57% from the bronze-medal time).

A22-week training program including 95% low-intensity training and 5% high-intensity interval training, coupled with direct supervision and a focus on recovery, nutrition, sleep, and confidence, successfully brought the athlete from underperformance to Olympic final.