Lorcan Daly of the Technological University of the Shannon recently conducted a study on the limits of human ageing physiology. He examined the training and nutrition physiology of three Irish master world indoor champions—Kenny McDonald (50+), Denis Crowley (60+), and Paul Gallen (70+).
Daly found that, “While some rowing performance decline with age is inevitable—around 0.7% per year after 35—the study revealed that many aspects of fitness can remain largely intact. The research challenges the assumption that ageing leads to steep physical decline. With structured training—particularly combining endurance (cardio) and strength exercises (weightlifting or even bodyweight exercises)—people can maintain high functionality and resilience as they age.”
McDonald commented, “Dr. Daly found that our physical fitness markers were notably superior to a normal healthy 25-year-old and generally similar to a 25-year-old trained, national-level rower.” He also described how rowing serves as a “de-stresser” for him: “It takes all my focus and blocks out all the problems of the world. It calms the demons in my head.”
Gallen admitted that he was surprised to see that “performance decline caused by ageing can be delayed by continuing cardio and strength exercising.” He also noted, “The sport of rowing, giving a full-body workout, is by far the most potent longevity ‘drug.’” Just this weekend, Gallen competed in St Michael’s Head of the River in a composite 4x-. With a combined age of over 300 years, they rowed in the MM(I) master’s category, marking the first entry of its kind in this category
Crowley said, ‘The great thing about masters rowing, quite aside from the obvious physical and mental benefits, is that anyone can take this up and compete no matter if they had rowed in their youth or not. There is no barrier on age, weight, style or rowing standard for anyone to enter any of the international events culminating in the World Rowing masters regatta every year.’
Daly encourages people to take up masters rowing, saying, “For those considering masters rowing, the benefits go far beyond competition. It enhances longevity, mobility, mental and physical well-being, and offers a brilliant social outlet in a warm community.”
Ultimately, Daly’s study reinforces the idea that age doesn’t have to limit athletic performance, especially in masters rowing. Whether you’re an experienced athlete or just beginning your rowing journey, masters rowing offers a unique opportunity to stay active, improve your fitness, and continually challenge yourself. As McDonald puts it, “Exercise should be approached as a habit like brushing your teeth.”
It seems age is just a number—especially when you’re rowing at a world-class level!
If you’re interested in joining rowing as a master, click here to find a club near you.
Watch this short video here from the Irish Independent to see the study in action, as reported by Niamh Horan.
The published study can be found here.
