Why it is important to track performance of collegiate rowers from aerobic and anaerobic fitness tests.
by Olivia Conforti
Yuval Barak’s found that both aerobic and anaerobic tests of fitness were important for exercise in rowers.
Bara presented his research in a poster titled “Can Aerobic and Anaerobic Fitness Tests to Track Performance Changes in Collegiate Rowers” during the 2021 academic showcase.
Poster from showcase. (Link to poster imbedded in photo above. Photo: academic showcase website)
Barak tested FPU rowers’ fitness levels. Barak states that is unclear in which these tests truly track performance changes in rowers. “During exercise our body uses anaerobic and aerobic systems to help recover energy (ATP). The aerobic system requires the use of oxygen molecules to produce (ATP) while the anaerobic doesn’t…” said Barak.
The difference between aerobic and anaerobic is aerobic is a low intensity long exercise, such as a slow run. Anaerobic exercises are usually of high intensity for a short period of time.
Barak used members of the varsity woman’s rowing team at FPU for his study. Each rower went through three tests that measured their standard fitness test and aerobic/ anaerobic fitness and capacity.
Barak said the reason for using the rowing team was “Throughout the years our CVR lab has been working with multiple sports teams… In this case our lab took great interest in rowing as our faculty sponsor helped out with the rowing team (we also have one lab member on the team). We decided that the rowing team would be a good fit as both sides could benefit from the study.”
The purpose of these tests is to figure out if there is a certain type of fitness (anaerobic or aerobic) that has more benefits for athletes’ fitness. Barak focused on investigating the connection between the changes in fitness test outcomes. Barak found the most difficult but also most important part of the study was the organization and planning of the study.
The study is ongoing and the studies research leads them to believe there is a more accurate indicator towards the change in the rowing teams overall performance. This study could allow for coaches and trainers to create a more accurate program to help maximize an athletes performance.
