Different technique for men and women

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.
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