The dynamics of rowing.

Abstract

A phenomena experienced by many athletes, referred to as 'hitting the wall' lacks empirical evidence of occurrence. Data from eighteen collegiate female rowers (eight novice, ten varsity) revealed the dynamics of rowing emphasizing the dynamical pattern for the extreme physical duress period during a rowing task. The pattern identified displayed three distinct portions: the burst, the wall, and the recovery. Participants completed a 2000 meter task and 6000 meter task as a rowing ergometer recorded performance measured in watts during meter intervals. Results showed that the two training levels were significantly different in speed, though the distinct dynamical portions occurred at statistically similar meter intervals in each task for both training levels. Evidence suggests that the dynamical rowing pattern including 'hitting the wall' is dependent on teleanticipatory mechanisms (perceived task end), which occur in the rowing dynamical pattern proportional to the rowing distance regardless the training level or fatigue.