Analysis of anaerobic power in club level young rowers

Aim: To date, assessment of the anaerobic components to determine performance in rowers is not part of standard evaluation or monitoring set for training. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relation between anaerobic power output and ergometer rowing performance over 2000 meters, in a group of 14 -17 years old rowers (n = 11). Methods: Each subject performed, in three separate days, two “all-out” tests, over 20 and 60 seconds, and a 2000 meters trial, using a Concept II rowing ergometer. Mean power values over 20 sec (W20) and 60 sec (W60) were measured and compared with the time to perform the 2000 m trial (t2000). Results: Statistical analysis showed high and significant correlation between 2000 meters performance (6.90 ± 0.1 min) and anaerobic power over 20 sec (479.5 ± 93.90 watts; r = 0.941, P = 0.00002) and 60 sec (435.5 ± 64.60 watts; r = 0.964, P = 0.000002). Conclusions: The data of our study confirm that parameters of anaerobic power strongly affect the performance and that the determination of these variables by testing on rowing ergometer can be an useful tool for planning and monitoring of training in young rowers.