| Summary: | Background and Aim. Modern rowing development is characterized by higher density of competitive results and increasing demands for technical mastery of female athletes. Optimizing of the kinematic structure of the stroke cycle—by ensuring effective interaction among stroke rate, stroke length, and boat velocity— is a key determinant of competitive performance. However, comparative analyses of kinematic indicators in female single scullers of different qualification levels under competitive conditions remain insufficiently investigated. The purpose of the study was to conduct a comparative analysis of the kinematic structure of rowing technique of female single scullers of different levels of athletic qualification and to determine the most informative indicators influencing competitive performance efficiency. Material and Methods. The research involved 36 female single scullers divided into three groups: World’s Elite Athletes (WEA, n = 12), Leading Ukrainian Athletes (LUA, n = 12), and Qualified Ukrainian Athletes (QUA, n = 12). Data were collected during a 2,000 m competitive race using pedagogical observation, video recording, and biomechanical analysis. The primary kinematic variables included stroke rate, stroke cycle duration, distance per stroke, boat velocity, joint angular parameters, blade–boat velocity ratio at the catch, intra-cycle velocity fluctuations, and micro-phase temporal structure of the stroke cycle. Statistical analysis involved calculation of mean values, standard deviations, and correlation coefficients (p < 0.05; p < 0.01). Results. Higher athletic qualification was associated with higher stroke rate, shorter stroke duration, and greater distance per stroke, resulting in superior average boat velocity. Elite athletes demonstrated more efficient temporal organization of micro-phases, minimized velocity loss at the catch, effective “active catch” mechanics, optimized proximal-to-distal force sequencing, and reduced intracycle velocity fluctuations. Strong correlations were found between average boat velocity and blade velocity at the catch (r = 0.95), distance per stroke (r = 0.94), stroke rate (r = 0.90), and ed joint angular and velocity parameters. Lower-qualified athletes exhibited prolonged transition phases, inefficient trunk and limb coordination, and greater kinematic variability. Conclusions. Athletic mastery in female single scullers is determined primarily by the efficiency of the biomechanical structure of the stroke cycle rather than by anthropometric characteristics. The integration of optimized stroke rhythm, effective blade–boat interaction, coordinated intersegmental movement, and minimized intra-cycle velocity losses constitutes the foundation of high-performance rowing. The findings may be applied to refine technical training and individualize preparation strategies to enhance competitive outcomes. |
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