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Int J Sports Med 2008; 29(5): 390-394
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-965333
Training & Testing

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Effects of Drag Factor on Physiological Aspects of Rowing

D. A. Kane1 , R. L. Jensen1 , S. E. Williams2 , P. B. Watts1
  • 1Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, Northern Michigan University, Marquette, MI, United States
  • 2Department of Chemistry, Northern Michigan University, Marquette, MI, United States
Further Information

Publication History

accepted after revision March 27, 2007

Publication Date:
13 September 2007 (online)

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Abstract

This study examined the effects of two resistances, or “drag factors” on selected physiological variables during incremental progressive rowing tests (seven 3-min stages) on a Concept2® ergometer. Subjects were seven male and seven female university club rowers. Their mean age, body mass and height were 19.6 ± 1.5 years, 72.7 ± 8.0 kg, and 172.2 ± 7.5 cm, respectively. Progressive tests were conducted using drag factors 100 (D100) and 150 (D150) before the spring racing season. Values were determined for the following physiological variables: ventilation (V·E), oxygen uptake (V·O2), heart rate (HR), blood lactate concentration (BLC), respiratory exchange ratio (R) and rowing economy (W/V·O2). Comparisons across all six submaximal stages showed no significant difference between D100 and D150 for any of the variables measured (p > .05). Maximal V·Emax was significantly greater at D100 than D150 (p < .02). Maximal V·O2, HR, BLC, R, stroke rate (SR) and W/V·O2 were greater at D100 than at D150, though not significantly so. The mean D100 - D150 differences in V·E and SR for each stage were significantly correlated (r = 0.76, p < .01), suggesting drag factor may affect V·E via SR.

Key words

exercise testing - power - resistance - ergometry - lactate - ventilation

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 Mr.
Daniel Alan Kane

Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation
Northern Michigan University

1401 Presque Isle Ave.

Marquette, MI 49855

United States

Email: dkane@nmu.edu