The effect of confounding variables on the relationship between anthropometric and physiological features in 2000-m rowing ergometer performance

Background: Anthropometric and physiological characteristics are often considered as potential variables that are significantly related with motor performance. Aim: The aim of this study was to identify and weigh the key anthropometric and physiological characteristics that are associated with 2000-m rowing ergometer performance in male and female athletes. Methods: The study involved 70 best female and 130 best male rowers from the seven largest Hungarian rowing clubs, classified into one of the following age categories: juniors (36 women and 55 men, age range: 15-16 years), older juniors (26 women and 52 men, age range: 17-18 years), and seniors (8 women and 23 men, age range: over 18 years). Anthropometric and body composition measurements were determined by the bioelectrical impedance method proposed by Weiner and Lourie (1969), and skin fold measurements were conducted to estimate relative body fat content. The countermovement jump test and the 2000-m maximal rowing ergometer test were used for physiological measurements. Results: An increase in skeletal muscle mass was correlated (r = -.39, p <.001) with a significant decrease in rowing time over a distance of 2000 m, whereas a significant increase in rowing time was noted with an increase in sitting height (only in men, r = .33, p <.001), body mass (in women and men: r = .24, p = .013 and r = .31, p = .009), and body fat percentage (r = .26, p < .030). Rowing time was also bound by a significant correlation with maximal force (r = -.79 and -.90, p <.001) and relative maximal power (r = -.54 and -.78, p <.001) in both sexes, with relative peak power in males (r = -.51, p < .001), and with estimated relative maximal aerobic capacity in females (r = -.43, p <.001). Conclusion: Rowing performance over a distance of 2000 m is significantly negatively correlated with the skeletal muscle mass, maximal force, relative maximal power, relative peak power, and estimated relative maximal aerobic capacity.