Biomechanical and physiological determinants of 2000 m rowing performance on slides ergometer

• Main Author: Abdullah, Muhammad Irwan
• Format: Monograph
• Language: English
• Published: Pusat Pengajian Sains Kesihatan, Universiti Sains Malaysia 2016
• Subjects: R Medicine; RA440-440.87 Study and teaching. Research
• Online Access: http://eprints.usm.my/60739/1/MUHAMMAD%20IRWAN%20BIN%20ABDULLAH-E.pdf; http://eprints.usm.my/60739/
• Institution: Universiti Sains Malaysia

Physiology is believed to be the most important determinant in rowing performance that can help rowers win or lose tens of seconds in a race. However, there is also the role of biomechanics and rowing technique to apply the rower's present physiological fitness level most effectively. The effects of physiological and biomechanical factors on rowing performance have been tested in many previous studies but currently there is no study that combines the physiological and biomechanical factors in determining rowing performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the biomechanical and physiological determinants of 2km rowing performance on slides ergometer. Ten state-level rowers were recruited to participate in this study. Three tests were completed to gather the data on aerobic, anaerobic, anthropometry and biomechanical variables and also 2000 m rowing performance time. Pearson's correlation test was used to determine correlation of these with 2000 m time. Result showed that aerobic capacity, anaerobic capacity and biomechanical variables were correlated with 2000 m time. Peak power (r = -0.937) and knee angle at catch at 1200 m (r = 0.888) were the major determinants of ergometer rowing performance, followed by knee angle at finish at 2000 m (r = -0.872), hip angle at catch at 2000 m (r = 0.85), body fat percentage (r = 0.828), hip angle at finish at 800 m (r = -0.807), body height, post-test lactate and oxygen uptake (VO2). The findings could be use for training design and recruitment. More time should be allocate to improve muscle power. Increase in strength and balance on muscles around hip and knee areas, particularly the hip and knee flexors may increase performance and also possibly prevent muscle injury.