Some reactions to a dry-land training programme for dinghy sailors

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Physiology
• Athletic Training

Background:

• Dinghy sailing demands significant physical strength and endurance.
• Winter training offers an opportunity to enhance sailor fitness.
• Optimizing dry-land training can improve on-water performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate a dry-land winter training program for dinghy sailors.
• To assess the physiological effects of the training regimen.
• To explore the relationship between training adaptations and racing performance.

Main Methods:

• A 14-week progressive dry-land training program was implemented.
• Training included circuit training, strength/endurance exercises, and distance running.
• Physiological parameters (weight, skinfolds, strength, endurance, aerobic power) were measured before and after training.

Main Results:

• Significant reductions in excess weight and skinfold thickness were observed.
• Muscle strength, endurance, and anaerobic capacity showed marked increases.
• Aerobic power remained largely unchanged, but oxygen debt decreased.
• Sailors reported increased tolerance for demanding positions and enthusiasm for the program.

Conclusions:

• The dry-land winter training program effectively improved key physiological markers in dinghy sailors.
• While training enhanced physical capacity, its direct impact on competitive ranking was less clear than accumulated experience.
• The program was well-received, with participants intending to continue similar training.