The Effect of Anaerobic Interval Air Rowing Training (AIART) on Increasing Strength and Endurance of Upper Body Muscles in Rowing Athletes

Abstract

This study aims to explore in depth how interval training with an Air Rower can be optimized to support maximum performance in rowing athletes. The research method applied is a true-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group design, involving 20 male rowing athletes aged 18-20 years, divided into two groups: the control group (G1; n = 10), and the treatment group (G2; n = 10). The Anaerobic Interval Air Rower Training (AIART) program was conducted at an intensity of 85-95% HRmax, with a frequency of 3 times per week for 6 weeks. Data was collected by evaluating muscle strength using a dynamometer, while muscle endurance was tested using the upper body pull-up test performed over one minute. Data analysis was conducted using the independent sample t-test, and effect size evaluation was performed using Cohen's d. The results showed a significant increase in the mean delta (∆) muscle strength between G1 and G2 (0.50±0.97 vs 2.50±0.53 kg, p=0.001) and had a large effect size with a Cohen's d value of 2.558. Similarly, the mean ∆ muscle endurance showed a significant increase between G1 and G2 (0.21±0.67 vs 2.74±0.65 times, p=0.001) and had a large effect size with a Cohen's d value of 3.855. Therefore, it is concluded that the AIART intervention conducted over 6 weeks on rowing athletes is proven to be effective in improving muscle strength and endurance.