FOOT POSITION AFFECTS KNEE JOINT TORQUE IN ERGOMETER ROWING

Abstract

Recreational and competitive athletes use rowing ergometers for aerobic exercise. Little is known about the impact of foot position on knee joint loads during this exercise. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of foot position on hip joint kinematics as well as knee adduction and knee rotation torques. It was hypothesized that altering the foot position to a more lateral placement on a rowing ergometer would mediate knee joint torques. Data supported the hypothesis that a significant change of knee adduction torque as well as reduced external rotation torques in the knee joint would accompany more lateral foot positioning. These results support the development of adjustable foot rests for rowing ergometers to better modulate knee forces.