Other hypermobile / hEDS rowers?

[ebmason]

Hello all!

I'm very new to indoor rowing (just started a few weeks ago) and am completely new to these forums (although I've been reading posts for the last few weeks). I created an account so I could ask - are there other rowers here who have hypermobility / Ehlers-Danlos?

My PT and I work together on form and body mechanics so I'm not looking for specific workout advice. Instead I'm thinking it would be great to connect with athletes navigating similar physical challenges, just to know there are other folks like me out there.

- Ellie

[Dangerscouse]

Welcome to the forum. I can't be any help whatsoever as I'm the opposite end of the spectrum after too much driving, sitting at a computer etc, and not enough stretching.

[Ombrax]

are there other rowers here who have hypermobility / Ehlers-Danlos?

Ellie, welcome to the forum. : )

I can't help you with your specific question, but I am interested - how does EDS manifest itself or affect things when rowing? I would imagine that at lower paces it probably isn't that big a deal, but could be a issue if one is really working hard.

As Dangerscouse points out, usually we field questions about lack of mobility, and folks not being able to get their shins vertical and their torso far enough forward at the catch.

Best of luck - if you are able to stick with it and find that rowing works for you, you'll discover that the erg can be a great exercise tool.

[JaapvanE]

I created an account so I could ask - are there other rowers here who have hypermobility / Ehlers-Danlos?

I have hyperflexibility in my back. It doesn't help maintaining a strong posture, and I'm still training to get rid of a rounded back. But aside from some aches, I'm pretty OK (I don't do all out pieces as I know my back will get hit as I can't maintain posture).

you might also want to watch this video: https://youtu.be/uLsHNl_0u5I

[ebmason]

Thank you for your warm welcome and kind replies! I'm happy to be finding a home here in the rowing community

Ombrax so far I'm only rowing slow and easy to focus on form, so I don't know yet how hypermobility will affect harder workouts. In terms of form though, I'm working a LOT on keeping my knees and elbows bent, like the PT suggests in the vid JaapvanE linked (thank you!!). I'm troubleshooting how to keep my toes angled out (at positions 10 and 2) because when they're perpendicular to the floor (at 12 o' clock) my hips pop in and out. Also, I kept dislocating my wrists and elbows when using the standard grip so I replaced it with a TrakFitness Sportrower (https://www.trakfitnessllc.com/shop/p/sportrower) - much more comfortable.

JaapvanE I'm glad to know I'm not the only one. Thank you for sharing and good luck building strength in your back. My PT asked me to change my grip so I recruit (and strengthen) my rhomboids. Wow is it challenging! But also super fun

[JaapvanE]

But also super fun

This is the important bit in any excercise: having fun (and not injuring yourself).

Hope it helps you in dealing with your hypermobility.