Impact of a Six-Week Training Program on Rowers' Muscular Endurance

IMPACT OF A SIX-WEEK TRAINING PROGRAM ON ROWERS' MUSCULAR ENDURANCE Denis KOZMA College of Vocational Studies for the Education of Preschool Teachers and Sports Trainers, Subotica, Serbia Students paper, supervision by Sandra Vujkov, PhD The rowing sport demands exceptional muscular endurance, relative strength, repetitive strength, and aerobic capacity. Work intensity is frequently within the anaerobic threshold. PURPOSE: The research aimed to assess the effects of a six-week training program on improving rowers' muscular endurance, with a focus on reducing the time needed to complete a standard 2000-meter rowing course on the Concept II rowing ergometer. METHODS: Overall N=8 nationally ranked juniors (Age 17,4 ±0,33 years; Weight 66,98±12,54 kg) with an average of four years of rowing experience participated in this study. Relative strength and muscular endurance along with VO2max assessment was conducted using tests of indoor rowing 2000m and 6000m on the Concept II rowing ergometer (Nottingham, UK). Research shows that the ergometer simulates the same biomechanical and metabolic rowing as on water. Tests were performed on two separate days with 24h rest intervals in between. The results are shown as a percentage of improvement compared to initial measurements. RESULTS: The training program individually improved muscular endurance, with maximum power outputs increasing by 6.95% (at 2000m) and 15.19% (at 6000m), relative strength by 6.29% (at 2000m) and 16.55% (at 6000m). The VO2max value increased by 6.91%, measured only at 2000m. CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the positive effects of a carefully planned and individualized six-week training program on rowers' muscular endurance, relative strength, and aerobic capacity of individual rowers.