Analysis and stratification of internal and external loads in rowers of different categories, age groups, and sex: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background Competitive rowing has also been on the Olympic program since the first Modern Olympic Games. However, there are no reports that normalize physical performance in the different tests. Aim: The purpose of the study was to analyze and present standardized values of physical performance in rowers of different categories, age groups, and sex. Methods: The search was structured under the PRISMA® guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analysis. The search was performed in Web of Science, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, PubMed, and MedLine with no time limit until September 2023. Variables analyzed were maximal oxygen consumption (VO_2max), heart rate, aerobic power, anaerobic power, and critical rowing speeds. Results: Most studies focus on VO_2max. The highest VO_2max was in the “elite” men category (5.46 LO₂·min^-1), while the lowest value was in the “novice” women category (2.88 LO₂·min^-1). The most frequently used test to evaluate VO_2max was the 2,000-meter (m) rowing ergometer. Conclusion: The internal load most evaluated in rowers of all categories, age groups, and sex is VO_2max. In most cases, VO_2max is evaluated through the 2,000 m rowing ergometer test. However, this test has low reliability in lower-level athletes. In the latter case, exploring tests with a shorter duration (6-min on the rowing ergometer) is suggested.