Analytics of Pacing Development in Men's Sculling.

Abstract

Aims: We described and compared performances and pacing strategy (PS) across sculling age groups and boat classes.

Methods: Over 10 years of Rowing World Championships data for the men's A and B finals of under-19, under-23, and senior in single (1×), double (2×), and quadruple (4×) sculls were analyzed.

Results: Velocity and stroke frequency (SF) were lower for younger athletes for all boat classes. Age group (t1057 = 10.8, P < .001, effect size [ES] = 0.10-small) and boat class (t1057 = 30.7, P < .001, ES = 0.47-moderate) were associated with boat velocity, whereas only boat class (t1057 = 14.0, P < .001, ES = 0.16-small) was associated with SF. Statistical parametric mapping showed that PS for velocity was different between boat classes between the start line and the 500-m mark (P < .001), whereas PS for SF was different between age groups from the start line to the 150-m mark (P = .004), while boat classes differed at 250, 750, 1250, 1750, and 1950 m (P < .05). Principal-component analysis showed the variance explained in the PS came from the age groups for all 3 boat classes from 0 to 150 m and ∼1900 m.

Conclusion: Velocity and SF increased with athlete age and boat size. PS for velocity differed between boat classes, while PS for SF varied across age groups and boat types as shown by statistical parametric mapping. Principal-component analysis showed that most variance was associated with age and early-race splits, reflecting tactical pacing strategies. These findings offer practical insights for athletes, coaches, and sport scientists aiming to optimize training and performance.