Abstract
This study compared the strength and fatigue characteristics of the trunk in international rowers and non-rowing controls. 39 international rowers(mean age 27.4 ± 4.9, 20 females, 19 males) and 35 control subjects who did not row (mean age 23.2 ± 3.2, 20 males, 15 females) were recruited and parameters of trunk flexion-extension strength including isometric fatigue were recorded tested on a Cybex Norm Isokinetic Testing System.
The rowers were significantly stronger (P < 0.001) in all measured parameters of back strength than the control group (isometric extension strength 249.3 N/m ± 52.1 (SD) in rowers compared with 178.6 N/m ± 85 (SD) in controls). Greater strength in the rowing group was most significant in the later stages of range. Both populations demonstrated marked fatigue of the trunk muscles, although this was more prominent in the rowers (p < 0.05 in flexion). In general, values of extensor strength were markedly greater than flexion strength, although this was less so in rowers. Consequently the trunk extensor-flexor ratios were lower in the rowing population.
In conclusion, elite rowers are significantly stronger than control subjects. It is of interest that these strength gains are not proportional throughout range and this may be related to the rowing action, and may be of importance with respect to future development of LBP.