If you’re looking to improve your rowing technique, look no further! In this article, we will discuss 5 of the best tips to help you row like a pro. We’ll cover everything from how to find a good rhythm on the water to how to properly power through your strokes. So whether you’re just starting out or if you’ve been rowing for years, these are the best tips to improve rowing technique and help you take your rowing game to the next level!
Best Tips to Improve Rowing Technique
Keep your back as straight as you can
Good rowing technique starts with maintaining a straight back throughout the stroke. This promotes proper alignment and puts the body in a strong position to generate power. When the back is straight, the legs can do the majority of the work, which helps to ensure a smooth and even stroke.
Additionally, keeping the back straight helps to prevent injuries by placing less stress on the spine. This is especially important for rowers who are susceptible to lower back pain. While it may be tempting to round the back when fatigue sets in, doing so will only compound the problem and make it more difficult to maintain good technique. For these reasons, it is essential to keep the back straight when rowing in order to maximise power and prevent injuries.
The power comes from your legs
Rowing is a leg-intensive sport. The leg muscles are the largest and strongest muscles in the body, so it makes sense to use them to generate the majority of the power in the boat. There are two main ways to do this: by driving with your legs during the catch, and by using your legs to drive the recovery.
During the catch, you should be actively pushing your legs against the footplate hard. This will help to transfer power from your legs to your arms, and will also help to set up a strong base for the drive. On the recovery, you should be using your legs to drive the seat back towards the stern. This will help you to maintain a strong body angle, and will also help you to generate more power on the drive. By using your legs for the majority of the power in the boat, you will be able to row with better technique and achieve better results.
Use your feet to steer the boat (Trust me it works!)
Using your feet, or more accurately one leg or the other to steer the boat in the direction you want to row is essential for proper technique. By putting more pressure on one leg than the other, you actively steer the boat in the direction you want to go. This is done by using the muscles in your legs and back to shift your weight from side to side.
The key is to find the right balance of pressure so that you are not overcorrecting or veering off course. With practice, you will be able to navigate even the windiest of waters with ease. So next time you’re out on the lake, remember to put your best foot forward and steer your way to success.
Try to get the maximum amount of reach on every stroke
It is important to try and achieve the maximum amount of reach on every stroke when rowing, as this maximizes the power output and ensures optimum performance in the boat. However, it is also possible to overreach, which can lead to reduced power output and even injuries.
The key is to find the right balance between the perfect reach and reaching too far. This can be achieved by ensuring that the hands remain close to the body at the catch, and then extend fully at the finish. It is also important to ensure that the arms are perpendicular to the body at the catch and then maintain this position throughout the stroke. By following these tips, it is possible to find the ideal balance between reach and power and maximize performance in the boat.
Try to find a rhythm and stick with it
Trying to find a rhythm whilst you are rowing is important for a number of reasons. Not only does it give you a central focus to keep your attention on, but it also helps to maintain a steady pace when you are rowing. This is important because if you row too slowly, you will not get the full benefits of the exercise, and if you row too quickly, you will tire yourself out.
Try to count your strokes in blocks of 10 whilst maintaining the same rhythm. This will give you another central focus to take your mind off the pain. Maintaining a steady rhythm is also important because it helps to prevent injuries. If you row too quickly, you run the risk of pulling a muscle or straining something. However, if you row at a steady pace, you are less likely to injure yourself.
In order to be a successful rower, it is important to master the basic techniques and perfect your rowing form. By following the 5 best tips for improving your rowing technique listed in this article, you can make significant improvements in your performance on the water. So get out there and start to implement some of these techniques to see some overall improvement!