Comparing Watts

[chris5150]

Crikey, its a tad more complex than I envisaged, thanks very much I understand it a bit more now, especially steve, very interesting reply....cheers

[steveroedde]

Another difference, with mechanical device considerations set aside, is the physiological circumstances of rowing and cycling. Rowing causes bilateral compression of the thoracic cavity, with the increased intrathoracic pressure impeding venous return to the heart somewhat. This will vary depending upon body dimensions and morphology, as well as excursion of the rowing stroke. However, there is a cost to this effect. Also, unless climbing/riding very strenuously, cyclists can relax the musculature of the upper body and reduce their diaphragmatic workload. Perhaps physical differences in the actual performance of the movements can account for the wattage variations. I personally haven't rowed millions of meters (almost to my first million), so please accept these comments as an educated guess.

Lee

Lee, Good point. I believe that rowing is one of the very few (perhaps only) sport where, due to the (relatively) low "cadence"/rate, respiratory fatigue plays a significant role. Perhaps only in the 1-2k time-frame though. There is a good review of the issue if you scroll down here:
https://highperformancerowing.wordpress ... hysiology/
Cheers, Steve

[jamesg]

The Power needed to climb is the Height of the climb x the Weight lifted x g (9.8 m/s² - I'll use 10) / the Time in seconds, plus windage, friction etc.

So if I climb 1000m in an hour (however unlikely), and me, bike and backpack weigh 100kg, I've delivered at least:

1000 x 100 x 10 / 3600 = 280 W average.

I'd expect a bike Wattmeter to say the same, within about 10%.

[toorow]

Another factor to take into account is a person's height. A taller person has a distinct advantage on the rowing erg, with cycling, height means diddly squat.

Impossible to compare, just taking this ONE factor alone into consideration.

As an example, 2 bike racers who are "identical" performance wise, and weight, one is 165cm the other is 185cm, the disparity on the erg WILL be huge.

[hjs]

Another factor to take into account is a person's height. A taller person has a distinct advantage on the rowing erg, with cycling, height means diddly squat.

Impossible to compare, just taking this ONE factor alone into consideration.

As an example, 2 bike racers who are "identical" performance wise, and weight, one is 165cm the other is 185cm, the disparity on the erg WILL be huge.

Its mot direct height, but more lean bodymass. And a taller man most of the time has more mass. This is no advantage on a bike because you have bike that weight. On the erg there in not much penalty for weight. Thats alo te reason for man most often being relative so much better then woman. Simple a matter of seize.