Equation for analyzing the peak power in aquatic environment: An alternative for olympic rowing athletes

Abstract

Purpose To develop an equation to provide the peak power (PP) through a specific stimulus performed in an aquatic environment, as well as to correlate morphological, anthropometric and strength variables with rowing performance. Methods The sample consisted of 16 elite young rowing athletes of both sexes (15.7 ± 1.21 years). The strength of upper limbs and lower limbs was verified. To analyze the PP, a 100-m Sprint test was performed on an indoor rowing type ergometer, and after a 72-hour wash-out, the test was repeated in an aquatic environment on a vessel equipped with a global position system. Body composition was analyzed by examining bone densitometry with an X-ray source and maturation was verified by anthropometry. Results The tests for water sprint and indoor rowing showed significant reliability (ICC = 0.695; p = 0.0007). The PP aquatic showed reliability with that acquired in indoor rowing (ICC = 0.897; p<0.0001) and was related to maturation (p<0.05). The morphology, anthropometry and strength of the upper limbs were related to the sprint and peak strength in both tests (p<0.05). Conclusion The equation for the PP in aquatic environment presented by the present study is highly reliable with an indoor ergometer digital ergometer.