An 8-wk linear periodized concurrent strength and endurance training program using a moderate number of repetitions not to failure (4NRF group) provides a favorable environment for achieving greater enhancements in strength, muscle power, and rowing performance when compared with higher training volumes of repetitions to failure in experienced highly trained rowers.

The purpose of this study was to determine the best prediction factors of traditional rowing performance in traditional elite (ER) and amateur (AR) rowers. Average power during the 20-min all-out test (W(20 min)), average power output which elicited a blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol l(-1) (W(4 mmol l(-1))), power output in 10 maximal strokes (W(10 strokes)), maximal strength and muscle power output during a bench pull (BP) and anthropometric values were all measured for 46 trained male rowers aged 21-30 with 8-15 years of rowing training experience. The ER group showed greater body mass (5%, p < 0.05), greater fat free body mass (5%, p < 0.05), greater 1RM(BP) (13%, p < 0.001), longer training experience (43%, p < 0.001), and a shorter time in the 2,000 m test (4%, p < 0.05) than the AR group. The ER group showed higher power output values in W(10 strokes) (9%, p < 0.01), W(20 min) (15.4%, p < 0.01) and (W(4 mmol l(-1))) (17.8%, p < 0.01) compared with the AR group. Significant relationships were observed between (W(4 mmol l(-1))) and W(20 min) (r = 0.65 and 0.80; p < 0.01 in ER and AR, respectively). The indices for rowing performance suggested that W(20 min), (W(4 mmol l(-1))), W(10 strokes) and 1RM(BP) were the most important predictors of traditional rowing performance in elite and amateur rowers.

Short-term TC results in large decreases in maximal strength and especially V45% in highly trained athletes. These results suggest the need of performing a minimal maintenance program to avoid excessive declines in neuromuscular function in cases where a prolonged break from training is required.