Transitioning to 1500m at LA2028: Impact of Duration on Energetic Contribution and Performance in Maximal Ergometer Rowing

This dataset includes three core datasets from an experimental study investigating how reducing rowing race distance from 2000m to 1500m for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, affects energetic contributions and performance outcomes in male rowers.
Data Set 1:
This dataset reports anaerobic contribution (percentage of total energy derived anaerobically) calculated using the maximal accumulated oxygen deficit (MAOD) method (slope and intercept included) across three maximal-effort rowing trials simulating different race durations: 4-min (representing 1500m in men’s eight), 5min10sec (approximate 1500m in single scull/2000m in men’s eight), and 6min30sec (traditional 2000m single scull).

Data Set 2
This dataset contains performance metrics (average power, distance, split time, stroke rate, heart rate, peak VO₂) recorded during each rowing trial. Anaerobic contribution, calculated for each trial, is also included. Together, these variables reflect the shift in energy system reliance and physical output as race duration changes.

Data Set 3
Anthropometric data (age, height, mass, body fat percentage, lean mass) and peak/maximal power output from three laboratory tests are included: countermovement jump (CMJ) power output, a 7-stroke maximal rowing test, and a 30-second Wingate cycling test.

Research Hypothesis
The primary hypothesis tested was that shorter race durations (simulating 1500m) would elicit a higher reliance on anaerobic metabolism and higher average power output compared to 2000m-equivalent trials. A secondary hypothesis explored whether maximal power output assessments correlated with rowing performance, especially over shorter durations.

Key Findings and Interpretation

Anaerobic contribution increased significantly as trial duration decreased, from 17.5% at 6min30 to 27.5% at 4min.

Average power output rose by approximately 11.7% from the longest to shortest trial.

Maximum power outputs, particularly from Wingate and 7-stroke tests, were significantly correlated with rowing performance across all trial durations.

These findings demonstrate a clear shift towards anaerobic energy pathways and increased power demands at 1500m race durations, suggesting sprint-oriented athletes may be favored under this format. The dataset supports future analyses of energy contributions, power-oxygen relationships, and potential athlete profiling based on power tests.

Researchers can interpret the data in the context of aerobic and anaerobic system contributions and apply the findings to coaching, training, and selection strategies for rowing at different race distances.

*Participant numbers reflect anonymous number assigned upon first test. Participants 06,10,12 were excluded due to illness/injury. Participant 03 was excluded due to exceedingly low VO₂ values resulting in implausible, negative anaerobic contributions.