Regatta Online - News and Features

News and Features

Issue 93 - October 1996

BIRO back beliefs

International Rowing Manager Brian Armstrong and Juniors Chief Coach Mark Banks set guidelines.

Weight training

First we feel that it is up to each club or school to establish its own policy. BIRO recommends the inclusion of weight training, either 'free' or 'fixed' weights, in the preparation programme, but would stress at the outset that it is imperative that weight sessions are properly supervised so that correct technique and loading is adopted at all times. Fixed weights in the form of a "multi gym" units may reduce the risk of mis-use of weights, but nevertheless proper use and loading are still paramount.

Rowing is an endurance and power activity. Strength training plays an important part in achieving the standard necessary to compete at the highest level. The most beneficial method of strength training is through weight resistance exercise. The principle of effective training is based on progressive and systematic increase in resistance related to levels of technique and skill.

We cannot stress too strongly that it is absolutely essential that the technique and skills of weight lifting are taught correctly and systematically from the very beginning, so that weaknesses and injury problems are not allowed to develop.

Because the rowing movement involves a 'rounded' back and a trunk rotation it is important to incorporate additional exercises in the weight training schedule to further strengthen the muscles over the full range of movement of the rowing stroke.

There are very few back injuries in the sport of weight lifting, even though national competition begins at the age of 13 years. This is because lifters are taught correct lifting skills from the start and this is emphasised throughout their careers. Over the last two years BIRO has organised a number of weight lifting courses run by the British Amateur Weight Lifting Association that give the necessary knowledge, skills and qualifications to enable the coach to teach weight lifting to rowers. At present more than 75 coaches of junior rowers have attended these courses. BIRO strongly recommends that coaches should attend one of the BAWLA courses. Anyone interested should write to Mark Banks at BIRO for further information.

Big Blades

To reduce potential injury and gain the maximum benefit from big blades, greater emphasis should be placed on the technical use of the blade and the correct rigging. The spoon should be placed (dropped) into the water before the legs apply any significant pressure. This is in contrast to the popular conception that the legs are used to drive the blade into the water.

As technology within the sport changes, coaches and athletes must recognise the need for alterations in technique, training or even attitudes before dismissing any new developments. The changes in technique necessary when using big blades to greater effect must be considered before drawing any hasty conclusions.

BIRO would certainly recommend that all beginners, at whatever age, should begin by learning the skills of rowing and sculling with macon shaped blades. Only when physical condition and technical skills are sufficient should big blades be introduced. It is quite clear that a poor technique in any sport will increase the risk of injury. Rowing is not unique in this respect.

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