Rowing Biomechanics - Effects of (In)Stability and Fatigue
Condition: Healthy
Study type: Interventional

Summary: 
      Rowing simulators are frequently used by rowers, when on-water training is impossible or
      limited. While such devices are highly valuable to maintain rowers' fitness, a concern was
      raised about extensive simulator usage. It was postulated that it could lead to technique
      alterations due to different biomechanical properties compared to on-water rowing.
      Slide-based rowing simulators were designed to better simulate on-water conditions.

      The main aim of the study was to compare the differences in various kinematic and kinetic
      parameters during a short (20 s) all-out rowing bout and during a 2000-m simulated race, to
      get a better insight into how different rowing simulator designs affect biomechanics of
      rowing.

      Three different rowing simulators were used in this study: (1) a standard stable/fixed rowing
      simulator, (2) a slides based rowing simulator, i.e. horizontal plane unstable, and (3) a
      tilt board based rowing simulator; i.e. frontal plane unstable.

      The investigators hypothesised that rowing on different simulators will elicit different
      biomechanics, including forces, power output, arm and seat movement velocity and amplitude.

      Each of the participants completed the tests in all three interventions on separate sessions;
      random order of interventions. The three sessions took place 7-10 days apart. During each
      session, the participants completed the all-out 20-s trial first, then the simulated 2000-m
      race. The aforementioned biomechanical parameters were tracked throughout the trials to be
      compared between interventions later.
    

Detailed description: 
      The measurements will take place at University of Primorska (Koper, Slovenia) and the
      subjects will be recruited in close collaboration with Rowing Club Piran. Crossover study
      design will be used. Each participant will be asked to come for three visits that will be
      scheduled 7-10 days apart. Prior to measurements onset, the whole protocol will be explained
      to the participant.

      Measurement procedure:

        -  15-min warm-up

        -  20-s maximal (all-out) rowing

        -  5-minute break

        -  2000-m simulated race

      After both trials, blood lactate will be measured. Blood sample will be taken at the the
      earlobe by a qualified medical personnel.

      Maximal performance test: The participant will perform a 20-s interval with maximal effort.
      The main aim of the measurement is to record the maximal exerted force and power. The custom
      adapted device (Concept 2 Rowing Simulator) records the positions (seat and handle) and force
      (legs push and handle pull), which enables for further calculations of segmental and common
      kinematics and dynamics parameters.

      Race simulation: the participant will complete the 2000-m simulated race and will be
      instructed to aim for the best results. The same measurements as in the maximal performance
      test will be performed. Wireless heart rate monitor will be used to record the heart
      frequency throughout the trial.

      Equipment:

      The custom adapted rowing simulator (Concept 2) allows for the measurements of stoke forces
      and consequently power outputs, seat and handle velocity, and seat and handle amplitudes.
      Signals will be transferred to central unit, amplified and converted, and stored on a
      personal computer.

      The interventions (i.e. the studied rowing conditions) will be as follows:

        -  a standard stable/fixed rowing simulator,

        -  a slides based rowing simulator, i.e. horizontal plane unstable, and

        -  a tilt board based rowing simulator; i.e. frontal plane unstable.
    

Intervention name(s): Stable rowing simulator; Slides based rowing simulator; Tilt board based rowing simulator
Intervention type(s): Device; Device; Device
Intervention description(s): a standard stable/fixed rowing simulator; a slides based rowing simulator, i.e. horizontal plane unstable; a tilt board based rowing simulator; i.e. frontal plane unstable
Intervention model: Single Group Assignment
Intervention model description: All participants in the study will complete the measurements for all the three rowing interventions; in a random order.
Masking: None (Open Label)
Primary purpose: Basic Science
Keywords: wobble board; slides; rowing stroke; rowing biomechanics; power output