Relationship between Force-Velocity Profiles and 1,500-m Ergometer Performance in Young Rowers

Abstract

Rowing races require developing high level of force and power output at high contraction velocity. This study determined the force-velocity and power-velocity (F-P-V) profiles of lower and upper limbs of adolescent rowers and their relationships with a 1,500-m rowing ergometer performance. The power developed during the 1,500-m (P₁₅₀₀) was evaluated in fourteen national-level male rowers (age: 15.3±0.6 yrs). F-P-V profiles were assessed during bench pull (BP) and squat jump (SJ) exercises. The theoretical maximal values of force (F₀), velocity (V₀), power output (P_max) and the F-V relationship slope (S _FV ) were determined. The body mass (BM) influence on these relationships was considered using an allometric approach. F₀ was 720±144 and 2146±405 N, V₀ was 1.8±0.1 and 1.8±0.3 m·s⁻¹, P_max was 333±83 and 968±204 W and S_FV was −391±54 and −1,200±260 N·s·m⁻¹ for BP and SJ, respectively. Upper and lower limb F₀ and P_max were significantly related. P₁₅₀₀ was significantly (P0-BP, F_0-BP, S_FV-BP, P_max-BP, F_0-SJ and P_max-SJ (r²=0.29 to 0.79). BM accounted for more than 90% of these relationships. Rowers’ F-P-V profiles reflect adaptations to chronic rowing practice. F-P-V profiles and rowing performance correlations suggest that BP and SJ exercises are relevant to evaluate young rowers’ explosive abilities.