Rowing Regatta Help?

Question

When I row at a fast pace, I always seem to be a little slower with the rest of the boat. When I try to move faster, though, I rush and do not actually go up to the full catch position. Is there anything I can do to move faster while at a race pace without getting too out-of-hand?

Answer 1

My mens heavyweight four is having the same problem.  Plus we have are biggest regatta (Dad Vail) this weekend.

you answer it yourself the problem is rushing.  One thing we are ding to try and change this problem, is I (the coxswain) use to call the start really loud and intense.  Now i call it way calmer at the star because they all have the pre-race jitters anywayz and if i'm up there screaming at them thats just going to make them loose control more.  So talk to your coxswain and tell he maybe to try using a calmer voice.  Pay more attention and control your strokes.

good luck

Answer 2

Ask your stroke to lengthen out a little. My crew had the same problem with me so that's what they did. Also, try erging at high rates with the other people in your boat lined up with you.

Answer 3

Try shortening your stroke.  At higher stroke rates it will allow you to keep better timing with your boat-mates.  Don't bend your knees all the way at the catch (in other words, do not slide as far forward as you normally would).  Also, at the release, do not lean as far back, and keep your hands a little further from your chest.  The shorter stroke is a weaker stroke, but timing is critical.  You must catch and release at the same time as your teammates, and if you are tired (and you always are, esp. at higher stroke rates) you do not always have the strength to to pull a full stroke at the rate of the rest of the boat.

Also, this can be a strength issue, and strength comes from practice.  A strong stroke is a quicker stroke.  But sometimes you are just wiped out (like pretty much every race) and this is when timing is critical, so just keep pulling hard, but shorten your stroke a little bit so that the boat timing is not thrown off.  Good luck.