From Sweep to Sculling: A Six Week Challenge

stargazertechie · Post by **stargazertechie** » May 15th, 2007, 8:38 am

I've recently picked up sculling at our school's summer training program. I've been out in the 2x three times, and my coach feels like I'm picking it up quickly. He wants to have me out in a scull by the end of the week.

Here's the question. There's a regatta mid-summer in my hometown. I'm seriously considering competing, but I don't know if I should try to get my women's 4 back up here to compete, or if I should attempt to do it as an open sculler... or both. I haven't rowed competitively since the end of march, and I'm worried I'm setting lofty goals.

Does anyone have suggestions, training plans, or other words of wisdom?

jamesg · Post by **jamesg** » May 15th, 2007, 9:48 am

Never say no, unless you life or honour depend on it.

TabbRows · Post by **TabbRows** » May 18th, 2007, 10:54 am

Use your hometown regatta as a "practice" race in the scull. It's summer time! Have a little fun! Try something new when your team's ranking isn't at stake.

robhen · Post by **robhen** » May 18th, 2007, 4:50 pm

Spend as much time as possible in the single.

Do a lot of square blade, half slide stops and roll-ups.

Have a soft catch and really strong finishers.

Have only a skill goal per session.

Relax.

Do a bit of speedwork - belt out 10 fast strokes every 10 minutes. Try and get the rate as high as possible without worrying about tecchnique.

Really focus on technique when you are tired from a hard piece.