Which component best supports sustained performance in long rowing sessions?

• A. Muscular strength
• B. Muscular endurance
• C. Cardiovascular fitness
• D. Flexibility

Answer: (B)

Rowing for a long period relies on the muscles being able to work repeatedly without fatiguing. Muscular endurance is the capacity of those muscles to sustain repeated contractions over time, which directly supports keeping stroke rate and power consistent throughout the session. Cardiovascular fitness helps supply oxygen and remove waste, so it supports endurance, but the main limiter in a prolonged row is how long the muscles can keep contracting effectively. Muscular strength focuses on short, powerful bursts rather than sustained effort, and flexibility affects movement range more than endurance. Therefore, muscular endurance best supports sustained performance in long rowing sessions.