Physiologic Changes in Rowing Performance Associated with Training in Collegiate Women Rowers*

Abstract

To evaluate the physiologic changes in rowing performance during the training season, selected cardiorespiratory variables were measured three times at 3-month intervals in seven collegiate women rowers during incremental exercise on the rowing ergo meter. Values for maximal oxygen consumption (V̇O_2max) and Peak power production increased by 14% and 18%, respectively, over the 6-month period. Maximal heart rate was unchanged with training. Oxygen-pulse increased significantly (+14%) during the training season, while the ventilatory equivalent for oxygen did not change. Oxygen consumption as a percent of V̇O_2max and heart rate at the anaerobic threshold (AT) decreased during the first 3 months of predominantly aerobic training, but increased significantly in the last 3 months with greater anaerobic conditioning. The changes demonstrated by physiologic testing corresponded to the particular type of training emphasized during the 6-month period. Serial measurements of V̇O_2max and AT can be used to assess the benefits of specific training. Based on these results, individual guidelines for aerobic and anaerobic conditioning can be developed using the heart rate response at the AT.

Key words

physiologic testing - rowing ergometer - benefits of training - anaerobic threshold