Transitioning to 1500 m at LA2028: Impact of duration on energetic contribution and performance in maximal ergometer rowing

Purpose: We investigated changes in energetic contribution and physical characteristics associated with rowing performance when transitioning from the traditional 2000 m to the proposed 1500 m race distance for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics (LA2028 Olympics). Specifically, we examine the relative contribution of anaerobic metabolism across durations reflecting 2000 and 1500 m rowing across the men’s eight and single scull. Methods: Nine highly trained male rowers (age: 23 ± 2.3years; V̇O₂Peak: 64.45 ± 7.97 mL kg⁻¹ min⁻¹) completed a graded exercise test (7 × 4-minute stages) to establish VO₂–power output relationships. Each participant performed three maximal-effort rowing trials (4MIN, 5MIN10, and 6MIN30) in randomized order over separate days. Anaerobic contribution was estimated using the maximal accumulated oxygen deficit method. Maximum power output was assessed via countermovement jump, a 7-stroke rowing test, and a Wingate anaerobic test. Results: Repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant (p < 0.05) main effect of trial duration on anaerobic contribution (F (2,16) = 34.1, η²ₚ =0.81) and average power output (F(2,16) = 17.6, η²ₚ=0.69). Anaerobic contribution rose from 17.5 ± 4.0% at 6MIN30 to 27.5 ± 5.2% at 4MIN. Power output increased 11.7% from 322.3 ± 48.8 W to 360.1 ± 53.4 W. Stroke rate did not differ significantly across trials. Wingate and 7-stroke power outputs showed strong correlations (r = 0.68–0.88) with rowing performance across time-trial durations (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Shorter rowing durations substantially increase anaerobic energy reliance and power demands. Preliminary associations suggest that peak power metrics could inform athlete profiling, although further research is needed. These findings emphasize the importance of anaerobic capacity in 1500 m performance, supporting training adjustments and athlete selection strategies ahead of the LA2028 Olympics.