Analysis of rowing based on handle trajectory

The paper presents an analysis of a rowing technique and the participant's fatigue based on the handle's trajectory. The rowing was recorded with the use of Vicon motion capture. Seven non-rowers were participants in the research. 42 strokes were analysed in three phases of rowing. Two theses: (i) “handle trajectory indicates the fatigue while rowing” and (ii) “the rowing technique may be assessed by analysing the handle trajectory” were proven. The presented research concerns the following aspects: (i) handle trajectory analysis in a designated range (specified by two markers positions attached to the ergometer), (ii) duration analysis of the incorrect rowing technique (in time domain), (iii) tilt analysis based on the angle of the handle's position relative to the floor (determined using two markers attached to the handle) and (iv) handle's velocity analysis (determined using one marker attached to the handle). The participants fatigue is indicated by two analysed factors: stroke time and the handle's velocity. The research concerns three stages of rowing selected in a way that the different fatigue phases were expected to be visible. The average stroke time increases in the following stages: by 0.13 second and by 0.6 second respectively. While rowing, the handle's velocity is decreased. The rowing technique is described by parameters such as: the proper handle's position within set boundaries, the surface area encompassed by the handle's trajectory outside the designated range, time of the incorrect rowing technique and the handle's tilt. The surface area clearly shows that in the final stages the movements are more incorrect than initially. The mean values of the tilt indicate that due to the fatigue the technique worsens in the middle and the final rowing stages. It is observed the participants tilt the handle to the right while rowing. It clearly indicates irregular forces acting on the handle. There is a difference in muscle strength of both arms in the participants of this research.