Development of a Coaching System for Functional Electrical Stimulation Rowing: A Feasibility Study in Able-Bodied Individuals

This study focuses on developing a coaching system for functional electrical stimulation (FES) rowing to improve the timing of stimulation in individuals with spinal cord injuries. The system aims to help rowers initiate FES at the optimal moment during rowing. The study identified the optimal range for FES application based on electromyography (EMG) of the left quadriceps in able-bodied individuals. This optimal range was then used to create a coaching system that provides feedback to the rower. The coaching system provides real-time visual and auditory feedback to instruct the user on the optimal time to press a button to administer FES. The system showed improved power and work outputs compared to rowing without the coaching system.

• 1
  Vastus lateralis (VL) activation begins consistently before the seat reaches the anterior-most position during rowing.
• 2
  The coaching system leads to significantly higher power and work outputs compared to the no-coaching condition, indicating improved FES-rowing performance.
• 3
  The coaching system improves the timing of FES administration, as shown by a significant difference in the seat position at button-presses between the coaching and no-coaching conditions.