Prediction of rowing performance on single sculls from metabolic and anthropometric variables

Using ten male experienced rowers (18.9+/-1.7yrs; 186.2+/-6.3cm; 79.3+/-7.3kg; %body fat: 9.3+/-1.4%), the relationships between metabolic parameters, anthropometric characteristics and 2000m rowing performance on single sculls were analysed to test the hypothesis that a combination of these variables would predict performance better than any of these categories of variables alone or any single variable. The rowers were subjected to three measurement sessions on a rowing ergometer (Concept II, USA). An incremental exercise test to determine VO2max, the corresponding maximal aerobic power (Pa-max) and anaerobic threshold (AT(4)), a 2000m time trial and a 40sec "all-out" test to determine maximal anaerobic power (P40) were performed. In addition, competition results of the 2000m race for single sculls were obtained. The relationship between the competition times of 2000m distances for single sculls and a rowing ergometer was significant (r=0.72; p<0.05). Muscle mass, VO2max, Pa-max, VO2 at AT(4) and rowing economy (ie, LA(350W)) were the major predictors of rowing performance for single sculls. Multiple regression equations demonstrated that the prediction models using the combination of categories of anthropometric and metabolic variables predicted performance times best for single sculls (R=0.89), followed by the equations using only metabolic (R=0.49) and anthropometric (R=0.36) parameters, respectively. It was concluded that 2000m rowing performance for single sculls is dependent on both anthropometric and metabolic physiological categories.