Effects of two entrainment patterns on performance of female novice rowers

Objectives: Rowers who entrain breathing frequency to stroke rate do so in either a 1:1 or 2:1 pattern. The purpose of this study was to investigate the performance and physiological difference that occurs between the practice of these two patterns of breathing. Methods: Fifteen novice female rowers (age =19.7 ± 1.6 yr.; body mass = 70.9 ±6.3 kg; height = 174.4 ±4.4 cm) were randomly assigned to complete a 2000 meter rowing ergometer test alternatively using each breathing pattern one week apart. Expired gases and breathing frequencies were measured using a Medical Graphics CPX‐D metabolic system. Heart rate (fc) was recorded using direct lead ECG. Stroke rate was obtained from the Concept II Ergometer. Results: Repeated measures MANOVA determined that when the breathing frequency was 2 breaths per stroke (2:1 versus 1:1), the time to complete the test was significantly shorter (490 ± 24.8 vs. 514 ± 11.3 s, p ≤ 0.05) and power output was greater (203.4 ± 21.5 vs. 184.5 ± 20.4 W, p ≤ 0.05). Oxygen uptake during each test did not differ significantly (2:1 = 2.7 ± 0.2; 1:1 = 2.5 ± 0.4 L/min, p > 0.05) despite an increased heart rate during the 2:1 trial (186.5 ± 8.9 vs. 175.7 ± 17.0 bpm, p = ≤ 0.05). The end tidal carbon dioxide tension (PETCO2) and tidal volume values were significantly lower during the 2:1 vs. the 1:1 condition (35.8±3.3vs. 45.1±3.4mmHg, p ≤ 0.05) and (2.1±0.3vs. 2.6 ± 0.3 L, p ≤ 0.05) respectively. Conclusion: Entrainment at 2 breaths per stroke results in a significant improvement in performance during a standard 2000 m rowing ergometer test compared to a 1:1 pattern of breathing. Entrainment of one breath per stroke leads to carbon dioxide retention, which may result in respiratory acidosis and a negative impact on performance.