Do i have a body for rowing?

Question

i am 6"1 and about 130-135 lbs i know i am skinny but i think for my weight and body type i have pretty good strength and endurance and i always do my weights (i have a home gym ) 2 days on 1 day off. i eat enough, i am just genetically skinny. my question is will my body ever allow me to be good rower seeing as i have long arms and determination?

Answer 1

I think you'd make a good oar.

Answer 2

yea...with the weights and rowing practices...you'll definitley gain more muscle...probably a six pack if you don't have one already ;P

Answer 3

Tall and lean.  How old are you?  Are you just a kid, then you will probably put on weight as you mature.  Determination does go a long way too.

Answer 4

I rowed at 6'0" 145, and was the skinniest guy on my crew going by pounds per inch.  I rowed both heavyweight and lightweight, even succeeding in making the 2nd varsity heavyweight 4 one year.  They were not at a competitive speed without me in the boat.

Your low weight is compounded by low body fat and less muscle weight than everyone else, giving you suspect endurance.

Rowing you'll burn a LOT of calories.  You don't need just pretty good strength, you need to be as strong as anyone else out there, and have as good or better endurance. If you are good enough, no one will believe it unless the boat you are in is always faster no matter where they switch you.  Even then, others may conspire to replace you, and you will be viewed as the weak link in the boat.  It happened to me.

You may be able to gain some weight if you focus on weights, but fewer sets (no more than 2) , and minimal cardio for a week at a time.  Then be sure to snack more often, especially protein, dress more warmly, and get plenty of rest. All those will conserve energy and help you gain weight.

Excess exercise may jack up your metabolism preventing weight gain. Cut way back on the exercise while trying to gain weight.

You have an ideal physique for the mile or 800 meters.  Track coaches will fight to get you involved.  Why go where people will ask is you are port or starboard, but meaning an oar, not an oarsman ?  My college did not have track, but that is where I belonged.

If you are strong, you were born to run, not row.

Now, go plan to set some new world records. But on your feet, not your butt.