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Roy Schestowitz

Rowing Tips


I wrote some notes for myself before undertaking a laborious rowing challenge. I put them here instead of tossing them away at the end. Several notes were inspired by Mike Spracklen.

  • If the distance is long, do not drink beforehand. This can cause chest pains while reaching peak efforts.
  • Wear short-sleeve/sleeveless shirt to avoid unnecessary friction.
  • On the ergo, try a spacing of 11 cm between the two hands.
  • Use legs for thrust, not back and arms.
  • At return, when knees bend, use the reflex off the tension of the muscles.
  • Rest arms on knees. Apply lotion to knees if possible.
  • Long motion of the arms and moderate rowing rate.
  • Decide on pace at the start. In the past I aimed for:
    • 2000m: 1:40/500m+ and less towards the end.
    • 5000m: 1:45/500m+, probably slowing down before a great effort at the end.

Addendum

Secondary Notes added May 2006
  • Different ergos tend to have different speeds. Plan ahead to learn optimal pace -- that which leads to a steady speed without motivating early exhaustion
  • Consume plenty of sugars and other energy sources hours in advance. More complex carbohydrates can be found in pasta in bread. Coffee, sweets and cereal may provide a more immediate energy boosts
  • If possible, reduce friction by wearing shorter pants and apply some lotion to top of knees, which at times get in contact with the arms

This page was last modified on July 10th, 2004 Maintained by Roy Schestowitz