Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare the power provided by a recent ergometer with
the power developed by the rower determined using mechanical sensors set on the same
apparatus. Six rowers and six non-rowers performed a power graded test and an all-out
start on an instrumented ergometer (Concept2® system, model D, Morrisville, VT, USA).
Power values displayed by the ergometer were recorded with a specific software. A
strain gauge placed near the handle and a position sensor installed on the chain allowed
the calculation of the power developed by the rower. Power values provided by the
ergometer were strongly correlated to those determined with a direct measurement and
calculation of power. However, power values given by the Concept2® system were lower
(- 17.4 to - 72.4 W) than those calculated using mechanical sensors. This difference
in power measurements was lower at a steady pace and for rowers. The Concept2® system
underestimates the power produced by the rower by approximately 25 W. This difference
in power seems to be independent of the level of power developed but increases with
variations in intensity and pace. The deletion of the first strokes following changes
in power production allows to limit this phenomenon. According to the use of the power
parameter in the experimental design, it could be appropriate to correct values provided
by the Concept2® ergometer.
Key words
Instrumentation - expertise level - rower - exercise intensity
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Sébastien Boyas
UFR STAPS Laboratoire “Motricité, Interactions, Performance”
25 bis Boulevard Guy Mollet
44322 Nantes Cedex 3
France
Phone: + 33251837217
Fax: + 332 51 83 72 10
Email: sebastien.boyas@univ-nantes.fr
