THE UK's first rowing research programme will reveal the secrets of the best and safest rowing technique.

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A total of £81,000 funding from the Henley Stewards Charitable Trust, together with assistance from the British International Rowing Office, will enable Imperial researchers to further develop their biofeedback system which gives instant visual feedback on rowing technique.

The three-year project, involving oarsmen from Great Britain's men's and women's Olympic rowing teams and local club level rowers, will help rowers harmonise their move-ments with fellow rowers, while avoiding the causes of lower back pain.

One of the key lessons learned is the importance of developing the balance of muscles in the lower back area and the strength of the muscles of the lower abdominal area.

"We've successfully defined the key factors that make up good rowing technique, and now our goal is to translate that scientific knowledge into something that helps improve performance and reduces injuries in the sport," explained Dr Alison McGregor, leader of the research project at Imperial.

"This biofeedback system is a key communications tool between athlete, coach and physiotherapist. Since running the programme with the Great Britain women's rowing team in May 2002, no major back problems have emerged in the athletes taking part and in recent flat-out ergometer tests, six athletes in the group set personal bests."

The project draws upon the combined expertise of Imperial scientists, engineers, physiotherapists and coaches from the Great Britain squad, and may give a competitive edge at the Athens Olympics in 2004.

Using an experimental system at the Biodynamics laboratory, Charing Cross campus, rowers are wired up with sensors measuring the relative positions of their legs, pelvis and various points on their lower back. Their technique is highlighted through the 'stick man' feedback system, giving a visual display of how the back moves while rowing.

Funding will also be used for the UK's first 'rowing research fellow', bioengineer Dr Jeremy Loh, who is developing a specially-adapted rowing machine called an 'ergometer', using feedback gained from athletes in recent trials.

"The Stewards are very proud to be associated with this important and innovative research into the best and safest technique of rowing," said Mike Sweeney, Chairman of the Stewards of Henley Royal Regatta.

"This work can be crucial for the future health and well being of rowers, both in this country and throughout the world."