Interference Effects of Different Resistance-Training Protocols on Rowing Ergometer Performance: A Study on Semiprofessional Rowers.

Abstract

To evaluate the interference effects of various resistance-training (RT) protocols on rowing ergometer performance. Fourteen semiprofessional male rowers randomly completed 5 protocols in separate sessions: (1)control-no RT session was performed, (2)upper-body high-fatigue-4 sets to failure during the bench pull exercise, (3)upper-body low-fatigue-4 sets of 6 repetitions during the bench pull exercise, (4)lower-body high-fatigue-4 sets to failure during the leg-press exercise, and (5)lower-body low-fatigue-4 sets of 6 repetitions during the leg-press exercise. All sets were performed against the 12-repetition-maximum load with 2minutes of interset rest. Following the completion of the protocols, subjects performed an all-out 1000-m rowing ergometer test. Compared with the control condition, rowing ergometer performance was not significantly affected after the low-fatigue RT protocols (upper body: P ≥ .487; Δ = 0.0%-0.2%; lower body: P ≥ .200; Δ = -0.2%-0.5%), while it significantly declined following high-fatigue RT protocols (upper body: P ≤ .001; Δ = 1.0%-2.0%; lower body: P ≤ .002; Δ = 2.1%-2.5%). The average heart rate was significantly lower for the control condition compared with all RT protocols (P ≤ .043; Δ = 1.0%-1.5%). To minimize interference on rowing performance, coaches should prioritize the level of effort in RT protocols over specific exercises, specifically avoiding high-fatigue protocols that lead to failure before rowing practice.