Beginner Questions

[[old] Lisa]

Thanks for the help so far - have a couple more questions...<br /><br />What is the reason for rowing strapless? And how do I do it??? How do you do the return if you don't have a strap to pull against? The only way I seem to be able to do it is if I dig my heels into the straps and pull that way which I'm sure defeats the purpose of the exercise.<br /><br />Also, I noticed I can row fast (28 SPM) or row slow and harder (22 SPM) and get the same 500m time. Should I aim for fast or slow/harder or vary between the two? My goal is weight loss.<br /><br />Lisa

[[old] jamesg]

Straps: sounds like you need to start work on technique. If there's a big difference for you, with and without straps, then look at your stroke: length, coordination at the catch with legs working over almost the entire stroke, strong finish, recovery sequence, ratio. Once you've cracked the technique nut, you'll be fit too, maybe more so. <br /><br />Rating: this is a part of technique. The key to rowing efficiently is good stroke length and strong but not exhausting pulls. The rating follows, according to the pace we want. As you get fitter and stronger, and you will with slow CV paces, a good long stroke lets you use your capability and increase the work without fatigue - snowball effect.<br /><br />Once you're fit and working, weight control is much easier, and even such extraordinary measures as eating less need not be too drastic.

[[old] blue87]

Its a technique problem. Its the same reason why when on the water we row row or sucll with feet of the foot stretchers. The idea is to use the heals to bring urself up the slide in a more controlled manor and its also help keep balance.