Should we row differently based on our strength or sex? Marlene and Rebecca discuss lower and upper body strength in relation to rowing technique.
Timestamps
03:15 Differences between men and women in general. The standardised testing difference is about 15%. For a standing broad jump – can you jump your height?
05:30 Boat speed differences at international level is 10-12%. The assumption is that women tend to be weaker. But your training affects this. Activating muscles and adding body weight to the handle improves boat speed.
07:00 stability versus mobility. A strong person can row harder because they have a strong heart/lungs engine. Women post menopause have tendon laxity causing instability in joints. Men generally need more mobility as they age.
11:00 Rowing technique basic principles of large to small muscles. A late body swing requires strength. Most of us now a less-segmented stroke. Hold the pressure on the blade in the water. Personal dimensions matter too.
14:00 New rowers are taught a more segmented stroke by Rebecca for specific reasons.
17:00 Try rowing legs only then rowing with straight arms – can you sequence differently? The bent arm catch can stabilise your shoulder.
19:15 Emphasise posture with women as they carry more weight in the chest and so need more shoulder stability. 20:00 immobile athletes can’t get a forward swing. Work on this on land. An upright technique like Marcel Hacker – it’s possible to apply all your body weight.
23:00 Your ability to adapt technique matters for crew combinations. Try new things as a transition. Do it gradually. A different coach may use a style that’s new to you.
Watch for strains /stresses in your body as you change technique.
