Training and Fitness

To make the most of training, it is imperative that athletes remain healthy. They need to be attentive to how they are feeling during training. Training too much can be just as detrimental as training too little.

Signs of Over-training
Ergometer times do not improve and may start to get worse. This would be coupled with a sense of constant fatigue; fatigue in itself is not a sign of over-training. You may also become frequently ill or get frequently injured. Do not confuse over-training with lack of rest or sometimes poor diet, which can cause the same symptoms.

Preventing Injury
Regular stretching after every session will usually prevent any injury. However, any persistent pain should be assessed by a Sports Medicine Practitioner. Training with an injury can lead to permanent damage.

Muscular Injuries
There are risks associated with unaccustomed physical activity. Inadequate strength and flexibility can lead to over-use injuries once the rowing practices commence. It is therefore necessary to build up and maintain fitness levels during the off-season. The coach will monitor the rate of progression in training, once rowing begins, to minimise injury to both new and more experienced rowers. The more experienced rowers should be aware of possible limitations of new rowers and encourage awareness of possible over-use of muscles. Each team rower adapts to training differently due to outside commitments and fitness.

The original state of fitness and the goal fitness are integral elements to the rower’s participation and enjoyment. Clearly, rowers who exercise regularly will be less inclined to develop a physical injury.

Rowing is physical sport, and like others, the possibility of dehydration can occur. Each rower must carry a drink bottle on-board while rowing.