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There are several main physiological attributes that are important for success in rowing, such as anaerobic and aerobic fitness. In addition, physical body size and composition is also important in the success of a rower. Generally rowers require a low body fat level and being tall with a good reach.

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Long levers of the arms and legs is important to obtain maximum propulsion. Athletes with an arm span greater than their height indicate greater lever length. Low body fat improves power to weight ratio.

Athletes struggling to keep within their weight category need to have their body composition monitored regularly.

Anthropometric Fitness Tests: Height, Sitting Height, Arm Span, Body mass and Skinfolds.

Anthropometry and Olympic Athletes

London 2012 Olympic Games

Here is some information from the analysis of the anthropometric data (height, weight and age) from the rowing participants at the London 2012 Olympic Games. The rowers were on average much taller and heavier than the average Olympian.

Rio 2016 Olympic Games

Here is average data from the analysis of the anthropometric data of the rowers at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

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Related Pages

• Fitness Testing for Rowing
• Fitness Components for Rowing
• Olympic Games Anthropometry for other sports in 2012
• All about fitness testing, including anthropometry testing
• Rowing Talent Identification: the eTID Program and NTID program
• Rowing Fitness
• Poll about the fitness components for rowing
• sport-specific fitness tests