Prediction of Rowing Performance by Using Critical Thresholds in Elite Female Rowers

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the different critical thresholds, critical velocity (CV) and critical power (CP), combining with anaerobic power and energy expenditure to predict the 2,000m indoor performance of female rowers in Taiwan. Fifteen elite female rowers (age 20.7±1.4 years, height 164±3.5cm, weight 56.6±4.4kg) were recruited for this study. By using counter-balanced design order, 4 time-trials on 90s, 240s, 600s and 1,200s were underwent to determine the CP (139.5±20.4W), whereas CV (4.0±0.1 m/s) was derived by 400m, 600m, 800m and 1,000m distance-trials on different days by using linear distance-time model. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2peak=2.5±0.5L/min) and anaerobic threshold (AT4=157.8±22.1W) were obtained from an incremental exercise test. Further, anaerobic capacity (6,912.1±895.6W), mean power (323.2±26.7W) and fatigue index (3.8±2.6%) were obtained using a modified Wingate protocol on rowing ergometer followed by a 2,000 m time-trial. The results showed that CV, CP as well as VO2peak and AT4 were significantly correlated with 2,000 m indoor rowing performance. Stepwise regression analysis indicated CV and fatigue index (FI) were most important determinants in establishing predicting model of 2,000 m indoor rowing performance (T2000=-131.44 CV-89.57 FI+1022.27, SEE=4.08s). This study concludes that both CV and CP were significant correlated with 2,000m indoor rowing performance. CV and FI constructed the best predicting model for indoor rowing performance of female rowers in Taiwan.