I am an absolute novice looking to take up rowing.

[ies]

Hi Everyone,

I came to this online community because I need help. I am 18, in university, overweight and unfit. I want to use rowing as a catalyst to get me back to shape. I've been looking for a sport to become active in, and once I discovered rowing, I just couldn't stop researching it. Technique, videos -- the sport is absolute grace and precision, and I want to become part of the rowing tradition at my University.

I am currently 203 pounds, 5'9, and (last time I checked) could only row a 1:45 split. But, on the up side, for some reason I have oddly overdeveloped leg muscles, with 16 inch calves of pure muscle. I am looking to put together a diet and training regime to work on for the next 3 months before I head back to University where I will be attempting to try out for the rowing team, or more likely, development team. However, I want to show them, I am committed and willing to work as hard as I can to show them I have what it takes.

Can you help me get healthy and get to work?

[bloomp]

Well you have the right idea looking at videos of technique first - once you learn that part the actual process of erging is much easier and will benefit your health and on the water fitness the most. Don't worry about your weight, it will naturally drop as you begin workouts over the summer and potentially plummet when you start working out twice each day with your team.

What we do need to know isn't the split you can get (I can get to a 1:16, but that doesn't mean I can row at it for any decent time). Is that 2000m @ 1:45? 5000m? 500m?

Regardless of your level of fitness (which is what the length of holding a 1:45 split would show), there are a few options now for how to get better on the erg.

The Pete Plan:
http://thepeteplan.wordpress.com/beginner-training/

The Interactive Plan:
http://concept2.co.uk/training/interactive

The Wolverine Plan:
http://www.concept2.com/forums/wolverine_plan.htm

That is in level of increasing difficult (both of workouts and understanding). I recommend you spend at least 6 weeks on the Pete Plan, while continuing to ask questions and learn for yourself. Definitely READ the Wolverine Plan as it has a wealth of information!

[chgoss]

IMHO, most important thing when it comes to getting fit, is consistency. Most of us go great guns initially, then start dropping off as we get past our initial big improvement gains. Showing up 4-5 days a week is 1/2 the battle.

most important thing for consistency is to stay interested and motivated. Join in a group that will push you, and you can help push them. Something to look forward to everyday than just a solitary slog.

so, best thing for you to do is get RowPro and start training with us online!

free eval copy at: http://www.digitalrowing.com/downloads/

(obviously a bit tongue in cheek, but seriously, RP will help keep you working out on a consistent basis)

[bloomp]

IMHO, most important thing when it comes to getting fit, is consistency. Most of us go great guns initially, then start dropping off as we get past our initial big improvement gains. Showing up 4-5 days a week is 1/2 the battle.

most important thing for consistency is to stay interested and motivated. Join in a group that will push you, and you can help push them. Something to look forward to everyday than just a solitary slog.

so, best thing for you to do is get RowPro and start training with us online!

free eval copy at: http://www.digitalrowing.com/downloads/

(obviously a bit tongue in cheek, but seriously, RP will help keep you working out on a consistent basis)

AGREED.

I always forget this part because I only just started using RP. It is a great tool, especially for me when in the summer I am team-less. If you get it, get signed up for the rows at 7:30PM EST!

[jamesg]

Ies, well done on wanting to get back to real life - because that involves bikes, walking, swimming and rowing. A real life will keep you fit.