Estimating the Effect of Contrast Exercises Using Conventional Deadlifts and Air Rower on Increasing Leg Muscle Strength and VO₂max in Rowing Athletes

Objectives. This study aimed to prove the effect of contrast training using conventional deadlifts and air rowers on the increase of leg muscle strength and VO₂max in rowing athletes. Materials and methods. This study used a true-experimental method with a two-group pretest-posttest approach, involving a control group design. A total of 22 rowing athletes, aged 19-23 years, and recruited from the Surabaya City training centre, were involved in the study. The athletes received a contrast training intervention with a high intensity of 85-90 % 1RM, conducted thrice per week for a six-week period. Leg strength and back strength, leg power, and VO₂max were evaluated between pre- and post-intervention in each study group. Results. The results showed that leg strength and back strength, leg power, and VO₂max were found to be significantly improved after performing a contrast exercise intervention compared to the control group (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions. These findings suggest that contrast training combining conventional deadlifts and air rowers is an effective method of increasing leg muscle strength and power, as well as VO₂max in rowing athletes, so that it can provide benefits to enhance the explosive strength and aerobic endurance of these athletes.