The effect of pacing strategy on physiological, kinetic and performance variables during simulated rowing ergometer.

BACKGROUND

This study compared the effects of self-selected (SSP), negative (NPS), and even pacing strategy (EPS) on performance time, and kinetic and physiological variables in overall 2-km rowing and in first and second 1 km.

METHODS

Fifteen male rowers (15.37±1.34 years) realized four tests: an incremental test on a rowing ergometer to determine their VO2peak and three experimental 2-km rowing race, where first 1 km was manipulated. From SSP a negative pacing strategy, 4% slower than the mean velocity of SSP, and an even pacing strategy (EPS) with mean velocity of SSP, were developed.

RESULTS

High stroke rate and better performance time were observed in SSP. Fstr and Fpeak decreased, whereas performance time increased, in SSP and EPS from first to second 1 km. However, performance time, stroke rate and Pst in NPS presented better values (P=0.001) with the exception of decreased stroke length (P=0.03). There was an increase in physiological responses in all pacing strategies from first to second 1 km (P=0.001). Performance time, stroke rate and Fstr were better in SSP and EPS compared to NPS in first 1 km (P=0.001). VE, VE/VO2, VCO2 were better in SSP and EPS compared to NPS (P=0.001) in both first and second 1 km. Stroke length was smaller in SSP compared to NPS and EPS in second 1 km (P=0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

SSP (parabolic-shaped profile) allowed rowers to cover the 2-km distance at higher stroke rate and in shorter performance time compared to negative and even pacing strategies presenting same physiological responses.