HELP erging burnout!

[kblanchard]

Hi everyone,
I'm going to be a senior in HS with an 8:36 2k as of two years ago. I didn't PR last winter, though I should have. I know I'm more fit than the 8:36 time. I've started a summer 2k training programme (interactive) to help with my score--I want to break 8. I tried a 2k some time ago and it didn't go so well, couldn't push through the middle 1000 though I was hitting my goal split.

Recently, I started to realize how much I truly hate erging. There isn't even a positive kickback anymore when I know I had a good workout-just relief that I don't have to do it again until the next day. I usually hop on the erg and "just do it", but today I broke down and started crying when I thought about doing my workout. I've felt like this before, and I know I'm completely burnt out from my program, especially because I didn't break between Nationals and starting erging. I feel like I'm letting down everyone by getting this way, and I'm SO scared that I'm losing fitness.

Right now I'm at 6 sessions/week with Sundays off. If I were to permanently replace one (or two) sessions with something other than erging, could I still get fit and drop seconds? What should these replacements be? I'm willing to do anything, no matter the pain or irritation, to replace the dropped ergo sessions, so PLEASE help me out before I go completely nuts.

Thanks for any suggestions

[OarConsequences]

Have you tried bicycling?

[kblanchard]

No, I haven't tried it. Would that replace some of the sessions?

[Quatroux]

I think that you need people to train with. Hard training on the erg alone is difficult. Here are a few likely solutions:

Join a local rowing club. These are generally very cheap for juniors. You can find other rowers there to train with or at least be in a competitive atmosphere. This also opens you up to the possibility of rowing on the water which will help your erg scores.

Join a local rowing gym. Indorow is the only one that comes to mind, but these are everywhere. A structured class might not be perfect, but it is better than not training. If this fails, your local YMCA might have a rowing class.

Train online via RowPro. This software from Digital Rowing can connect you to other rowers for virtual rows.

Replace an erg session with swimming. This will help you with injury prevention, symmetry, and endurance. Weights are also a good option, but I’d get a trainer if you want to go that route.

In addition to finding others to train with and adding some variety to your training, I’d ask how long and frequent your training sessions are. You might be able to reduce or eliminate some session without sacrificing improvement.

[OarConsequences]

No, I haven't tried it. Would that replace some of the sessions?

Cycling is often used as a cross-training activity for rowing. Nothing is as good at training for rowing than actual rowing but if you're burnt out on erging I would swap in cycling in lieu of steady state to help alleviate your burnout.

[jvincent]

I'll agree with the cycling.

I erg in the winter, but once it gets nice outside it's golf and cycling time.

[kblanchard]

Thanks everyone! It's awesome that you're helping me out here

In addition to finding others to train with and adding some variety to your training, I’d ask how long and frequent your training sessions are. You might be able to reduce or eliminate some session without sacrificing improvement.

I did six times/week, every other day was a longer day (50-60min total work) and the other days were intense intervals. Which type could be eliminated just once/week without hurting the training?

[jamesg]

All the intervals: useless unless the races start next month.

[Quatroux]

Yup, those intense intervals are probably a bit much. Read the Pete Plan or Wolverine Plan. They will show you how to structure your week.

I think you will find that one race pace interval session per week is plenty. Try something like an 8x500 or 4x1k at the same pace as you last best 2k.

You can add in a second session that is a bit slower with intervals that are a bit longer. This should be a 5x1500 or pyramid (3k/2.5k/2k). This is done at 90% of your last fastest 2k split.

The rest of your rows for the week should be long and slow. I'd even do them without your feet strapped down so you focus on form. This is about 80% of your last fastest 2k split. Keep these at least 40 minutes long with a goal of building up to the point where you can cover about 12k nonstop.

You might be burned out because you've been pushing yourself too hard. It isn’t unheard of to do 12 sessions in a week and cover 150k or more, but not at the intensity you have likely been training at.

If boredom becomes a problem on the longer rows you can watch a movie or use RowPro.

[kblanchard]

Thanks everyone! I've decided to back of of my current plan and get in with the Pete Plan instead. I'm going to replace some sessions with cardio other than erging--probably running or cycling at the gym. Also going to be doing some sculling on the water, which I love! Ii'm optimistic that I can recover from my hitch in the road. Thanks again!