Should you row differently in a headwind and a tailwind? Why and what and how?

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https://fastermastersrowing.com/podcast

Timestamps

01:00 This Past Week - what we do to advocate for masters rowing.

07:00 Lifeproof phone cases - demonstration of how to use them in a rowing boat. Waterproof phone cases damage and drop-proof for mobile phones

08:30 Belt clip attaches to a boat tie on the rigger

10:00 Handlebar attachment - a small tube stays on your boat.

12:00 Arm strap - 3 different lengths of velcro

15:00 Rowing in a headwind

Headwinds slow down your power phase.

Expect a more 1:1 ratio.

Be patient, control what you do - don't allow the wind to rush you.

Maintain your length in the water.

Adjust stroke rate so it feels good. You aren't "rowing in mud".

18:30 Changes to make for headwind rowing.

Square later

Be patient at the catch - legs can be slower

Hold onto the finishes - keep back and arms dynamic

Use your body weight

Back-end load the stroke.

Headwinds push you to shorten up.

Use high elbows to hold onto the finish longer.

22:00 If you have cop and rough water which often comes with a head wind.

Rowing in peaks and troughs of waves.

Keep handles low so you clear the wave caps.

Article - rowing in rough water

https://fastermastersrowing.com/how-to-row-in-rough-water/

25:00 Rowing in a tailwind

Tailwinds push you along.

It can feel like the power has got away from you and you've missed the catch.

Less load on your blades.

27:00 Changes to make for tailwind rowing.

Pay attention - don't let the wind control you.

Be sharper with your transitions during the power phase.

Feel the boat for release timings

Everything happens a little quicker.

28:30 Front-end load the stroke

Early leg drive.

Tap the finish out earlier and don't get caught in.

32:30 Rigging Strategies for windy conditions

Practice before any race event - don't make first-time changes on the day.

1 cm adjustment on the button.

Move footstretcher one notch for Tailwind - towards the stern.

Clams can be kept on your oars and used / adjusted on the water.

The wind can change too during an event!

37:00 Experiment in smaller regattas with these changes.