Abstract

The question which factors determine the performance in rowing is relevant for the development of both training programmes and selection procedures. To gain more insight into this matter, a group of top-rowers was compared to a group of subtop-rowers on a computerised rowing ergometer (Wolf Sportgeraete) with respect to parameters describing technique and condition. Significant differences between the two groups were found for both technical und conditional parameters. The technique differed with respect to the point where peak forces were applied. The top group delivered maximal force with the oars 0.32 radians before the orthogonal position, whereas the subtop group applied maximal force at 0.15 radians before the orthogonal position. Differences with respect to parameters describing condition were found with respect to maximal mechanical power (top rowers: 313.3 watt, subtop rowers 279.6), and maximal respiratory exchange ratio (top rowers: 1.14, subtop rowers 1.10). The latter findings suggest that the anaerobic energy deliverance plays an important role in the rowing performance. The difference found in maximal mechanical power output are difficult to explain on the basis of differences found for the metabolic parameters. Therefore, it seems likely that beside these parameters, technique is a major factor determining a high mechanical power output. Verf.-Referat