Do men and women row differently? a spinal kinematic and force perspective

Performance differences have been noted between male and female rowers; the aim of this study was to determine if these are due to differences in rowing technique. An electromagnetic motion measurement device in conjunction with a load cell was used to compare the ergometer rowing kinematics of female and male elite national rowers.

Male rowers generated significantly greater peak force during the stroke, (p < 0.0001) and greater power. Although there was no difference in stroke length, females demonstrated a more optimal lumbopelvic rhythm due to a greater anterior pelvic rotation during the stroke (p < 0.05). This is likely to account for the lack of difference in stroke length. In conclusion, gender differences do exist in kinematic parameters of rowing technique. With a greater mass and height, the male athletes are more powerful than the females; however, females appear to optimize their kinematics in an attempt to enhance performance.