Two Bad Boys of the Boat: Breathing and Blisters

An odd combination you might think. But if you get them both right (in their own way) you can improve your efficiency in the boat.

Cleanliness of rowing equipment: the oar, boat and ergo

I have been a little surprised by the contrast in attitude to cleanliness of boat rowing equipment between clubs, and after a long distance row yesterday that wore away at my hands I thought I’d do something.

The handle grip (sweep and sculling)

This is one of the fundamentals of rowing. Hang on incorrectly and you’ll pain yourself with blisters and discomfort and inefficient rowing. Use your oar correctly, and it will reward you with efficiency.

An observation from the boat: that shudder of the oar as you come forward

I have a new club, and I have been for a few rows and a few ergs so far. Lovely bunch of people. Our (new) coach hasn’t been able to watch us recently as there’s been an issue with launching a speed boat from the dock, but meanwhile there’s an observation I’ve made from the eight, which can be a common frustration.

Sculling hand grip: applied in other activities!

I confess. I don’t only row. I enjoy music as well, and play a variety of instruments. As I sat in orchestra rehearsal recently I noticed my hand grip on my French horn was very close to that required for sculling.