Critical velocity: A predictor of 2000-m rowing ergometer performance in NCAA D1 female collegiate rowers

The aims of this study were to examine the use of the critical velocity test as a means of predicting 2000-m rowing ergometer performance in female collegiate rowers, and to study the relationship of selected physiological variables on performance times. Thirty-five female collegiate rowers (mean +/- s: age 19.3 +/- 1.3 years; height 1.70 +/- 0.06 m; weight 69.5 +/- 7.2kg) volunteered to participate in the study. Rowers were divided into two categories based on rowing experience: varsity (more than 1 year collegiate experience) and novice (less than 1 year collegiate experience). All rowers performed two continuous graded maximal oxygen consumption tests (familiarization and baseline) to establish maximal oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O2max), peak power output, and power output at ventilatory threshold. Rowers then completed a critical velocity test, consisting of four time-trials at various distances (400 m, 600 m, 800 m, and 1000 m) on two separate days, with 15 min rest between trials. Following the critical velocity test, rowers completed a 2000-m time-trial. Absolute [Vdot]O2max was the strongest predictor of 2000-m performance (r=0.923) in varsity rowers, with significant correlations also observed for peak power output and critical velocity (r=0.866 and r=0.856, respectively). In contrast, critical velocity was the strongest predictor of 2000-m performance in novice rowers (r=0.733), explaining 54% of the variability in performance. These findings suggest the critical velocity test may be more appropriate for evaluating performance in novice rowers.