GENDER DIFFERENCES IN MOTOR CONTROL OF THE TRUNK DURING PROLONGED ERGOMETER ROWING

Abstract

The aim of the study was to compare the temporal kinematics of a stroke, spino-pelvic kinematics, trunk and quadriceps muscle activation in prolonged ergometer rowing between males and female rowers. Twelve adolescent rowers performed a 20 minute rowing ergometer trial at a high self perceived rate of exertion. Spino-pelvic kinematics, muscle activity and temporal kinematics data were compared in the 1st, 10th and 20th minute. The results from this study indicate there is a difference in temporal kinematics of a rowing stroke between adolescent males and females. Furthermore, males row with a more flexed thoracic spine and a posteriorly rotated sacrum compared to females at the catch and the finish positions.