I'm New

[[old] gluedance]

Hi there. i am new to rowing. I am 44 and have just (3 weeks ago) started rowing at the gym as I have had several injuries over the last 2 years. We have our South Island Masters Games here in New Zealand at the beginning of October and I am planning to enter the 500m and 2000m. At present my best time at 500m is 2:05 and my best 2000m is 10:04. I would really appreciate any advice / suggestions as to what I can do to reduce my times in such a short time frame. I have already dropped my 2000m from over 11mins. I am enjoying rowing but don't always get the time to get to the gym.

[[old] nkoffler]

A simple plan would be to focus on proper technique and do longer rows (5K, 30 minutes, 10K). The ratio of you 500 to 2000 indicates that endurance is a big hurdle. Once you have a good base of endurance, you can do some shorter interval workouts as the competition date gets closer.<br /><br />Also, try looking at the training guides on the UK site.<br /><br />Good luck,<br /><br />Neil

[[old] Mark Keating]

Proper technique is critical to achieve full potential as well as to prevent injury. At the very least, check out the stroke sequence video on the C2 UK site. The best would be to have a qualified coach to advise you at your gym, but if that's not possible there are some on-line coaches that can get you started on the right track.<br /><br />You are far better off to practice proper technique right off the bat before you have a chance to develop bad habits.<br /><br />Mark

[[old] sandikeenan]

Hi Gluedance,<br /><br />I'm from Christchurch New Zealand as well, welcome aboard. Great to see another New Zealander on the forum.<br />I was taught to start off concentration on good form and keeping the stroke rate down between 18 and 20 and pull hard but with good form. Once you have that down pat then going at higher spm still keeps your form and brings the power up.<br /><br />Where do you row?<br /><br />Sandi