If I was in good shape and I have never done rowing before, i tried out in college would i be able to make it?

Question

and is it really a grueling sport

Answer 1

Hand technique like golf.

Ideal to have upper body strength like a pole vaulter.

Aerobic capacity like a miler.

Long sprint ability like a 1/2 miler.

There are big guys who have more power and less aerobic capacity, but they have to improve, too.

Yes its a tough sport.  You will never experience the duration of lactic acid burn like you will rowing.  But it is exciting, the most power you can use and not hurt anyone, or get hurt.

I was in good shape, and followed the training plan, worked hard and surprised everyone at my small college.

If you have good speed and strength for your weight, you have a great chance to make it.

Work on strength and endurance for:

bench row

bench step-ups

sit-backs/crunches with weights.

Answer 2

ive read a few books about crew and believe it or not some of the best rowers in college have never rowed before in their lives. some colleges wait til freshman orientation and pick out tall kids that look strong then they teach them as they go along..try to learn as much as you can before tryouts and you definitely have a chance

Answer 3

i don't know college team are usually pretty good. you have a chance if you get a rowwing machine.

Answer 4

If you can get access to a rowing machine, do so, because no matter how good your shape is, you'll probably find yourself using some muscles you didn't know you had-especially in your back.  Practice is pretty grueling.  You have to learn oar technique and synchronization with the other rowers.