Concept2 Forum

Hello everyone,

I am in the 8th grade. My school offers an introduction to rowing where we work on technique and strategies for making it to varsity. (probably not in freshman year) Anyways, my dad is big with working out and we are looking into buying an ergometer so that I can prepare for next year over the summer. Just curious what you need as a 2k time in order to be on varsity? A ten second range would be nice. Thanks everyone!

Depends on the boat you're in. In a clinker single it might take you a quarter of an hour, if you don't fall in first, but such races are never 2k, 1k is more than enough. Have you already sculled?

Unless your school has a solid tradition for rowing, with adequate boats and coaching, I'd suggest you start with kayaks. Much cheaper, you can put 2 or 3 on the car roof, more fun, more company and at least you can see where you're going and go afloat even when it's really rough.

I personally would advice against erging before you start rowing - it may lead you to some bad habits since technique doesn't count on the erg.

I would concentrate on X-training, such as swimming, running, etc. Build up your aerobic base (think long and slow).

Taking the class sounds like a good idea.