Reality check for targets

[Gerhard]

I am the proud owner of a concept2 since last saturday. So far I'am pretty pleased with the results, even though my results are dramatic when compared to all the PB's I read in this forum.

Could you 'experts' give me a reality check on my six-month targets? Am I overoptimisitic, pessimistic, are they in proportion? I'm 38 years old, 1.83, 88 kilo and haven't trained in any sport for about 20 jaar.

My current results:
- 6000m 28.21
- 2000m 8.50
- 500m 1.59

My six month targets:
-7000m 30.00
-2000m 8.00
-500m 1.48
-Marathon 3.45

[jamesg]

If you learn to row technically well first, you won't even notice yourself go past those "targets". Technically well means long and hard between strong positions, slow where you can go slow, very fast where speed is needed in the stroke, and always relaxed and smooth. We should be able to see some good rowing in a few days time on that horrid stretch of river between Putney and Mortlake. 7th April 16.30 hrs local.

[bscastro]

I'm definitely not an expert, but I think these goals are reasonable based on the info given. Particularly since you are relatively new to rowing and haven't trained very long, I think you have a lot of potential to make great early strides.

As jamesg said, get your technique down first. Doing this alone will drops your times considerably. Combine that with a consistent plan and I think you might find these marks easier than you thought.

I say go for it, but I suspect you might hit these goals sooner than you think...and you'll have to set new goals!

Best regards,
Bryan

[chgoss]

Best thing at this point is technique and a training plan.
Tons of advice on the UK site for both.
http://www.concept2.co.uk/forum/index.php

I follow the pete plan:
http://www.concept2.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?t=5409

also, if you want to see the best in action
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KldVh7Ly ... ed&search=

check this out:
http://www.ara-rowing.org/Asp/uploadedF ... %20erg.pdf

Xeno Muller has some great DVD's for sale.. #4 is great
http://www.gorow.com/indoor_rowing_DVD.htm
There is also the Concept 2 DVD that came with the erg.

and lastly, get Row Pro online racing SW. I dont know what I would do w/out it..
http://www.digitalrowing.com/default.aspx?ItemId=41

[Bob S.]

Could you 'experts' give me a reality check on my six-month targets? Am I overoptimisitic, pessimistic, are they in proportion? I'm 38 years old, 1.83, 88 kilo and haven't trained in any sport for about 20 jaar.

My current results:
- 6000m 28.21
- 2000m 8.50
- 500m 1.59

My six month targets:
-7000m 30.00
-2000m 8.00
-500m 1.48
-Marathon 3.45

Only one comment. In comparison with the first three goals, the Marathon goal seems too pessimistic. I think that 3:20 would be more in line with the other goals. It isn't the pace that wears you out in the Marathon. It is the duration of time spent sitting.

Bob S.