Should we row differently based on our strength or sex? Marlene and Rebecca discuss lower and upper body strength in relation to rowing technique.

Timestamps

03:15 Differences between men and women in general.

The standardised testing difference is about 15%.

For a standing broad jump - can you jump your height?

05:30 Boat speed differences at international level is 10-12%.

The assumption is that women tend to be weaker But your training affects this.

Activating muscles and adding body weight to the handle improves boat speed.

07:00 stability versus mobility.

A strong person can row harder because they have a strong heart/lungs engine.

Women post menopause have tendon laxity causing instability in joints.

Men generally need more mobility as they age.

11:00 Rowing technique basic principles of large to small muscles.

A late body swing requires strength. Most of us now a less-segmented stroke. Hold the pressure on the blade in the water.

Personal dimensions matter too.

14:00 New rowers are taught a more segmented stroke by Rebecca for specific reasons.

17:00 Try rowing legs only then rowing with straight arms - can you sequence differently?

The bent arm catch can stabilise your shoulder.

19:15 Emphasise posture with women as they carry more weight in the chest and so need more shoulder stability.

20:00 immobile athletes can't get a forward swing. Work on this on land.

An upright technique like Marcel Hacker - it's possible to apply all your body weight.

23:00 Your ability to adapt technique matters for crew combinations. Try new things as a transitio. Do it gradually.

A different coach may use a style that's new to you.

Watch for strains /stresses in your body as you change technique.