Energy Cost of Simulated Rowing Using a Wind-Resistance Device

In brief: This study examined rowing as a form of aerobic exercise for people of average fitness. Ten male subjects performed maximal exercise tests on a treadmill and on a wind-resistance rowing device. VO2 max was 10% lower in the rowing bout, but there were no significant differences in VE max and VE/O2. A submaximal rowing test was also performed at five incremental work loads, and VO2 increased curvilinearly with the velocity. The results suggest that rowing provides an adequate stimulus for aerobic training and that energy expenditure on the rowing ergometer can be estimated from the velocity readings.