Back in the 1980
a bunch of
medical scientists studied Olympic
athletes in a variety of fitness tests and measures. These medical
experts arrived at the conclusion that the Olympic Rowing athletes had
the best overal level of fitness! Rowing has been a
great source of exercise for centuries - and was a
widely used method of transportation for many who lived along or near a
river.
Rowing is
an excellent
form of low
impact exercise. Indoor rowing primarily works the cardiovascular
systems with
typical workouts lasting 15-45 minutes. Like
other forms of cardio focused exercise, interval training is also
commonly used in indoor rowing. While cardio focused, rowing also
stresses many muscle groups throughout the body anaerobically, thus
rowing is often referred to as a strength-endurance sport.
The rowing motion involves simple movements in defined ranges, so the risk of injury is really quite rare. Proper form is vital. The repetitive action of rowing can, over time, put a strain on your knees and the tendons of the forearm. Inflammation of these are the most common rowing injuries. If you row with poor technique, you may have the potential for other injuries. Just remember to keep your back strait and don't lean too far forward and you'll avoid back pain!
Indoor rowing really works your heart and lungs. Its a great whole body workout! The most effective workouts last 20-45 minutes. Like other forms of cardio focused exercise, interval training is also commonly used in indoor rowing. Rowing also stresses many muscle groups throughout the body anaerobically, thus rowing is often referred to as a strength-endurance sport.
Unlike high impact exercises, which can damage knees and the connective tissues of the lower body, rowing's most common injury site is the lower back. Proper technique is a necessity for staying injury free, with a focus on both mechanics and breathing, as correct rhythm, exhaling on the drive and inhaling on the recovery, is a stabilizing force for the upper body. Non-rowers commonly overemphasize the muscles of the upper body, while correct technique uses the large muscle of the thighs to drive much of the stroke. Also, proper form or technique requires that the angle of the upper body is never too far forward, nor too far back, both of which jeopardize the lower back and compression injuries on the knees and hip flexor muscles.
In addition to the
high levels of fitness attained, rowing is an
intense calorie-burning exercise. Indoor Rowing with your Concept2
Indoor
Rowing
Machine
Henley Royal Regatta is a world famous rowing event held every year on the River Thames in England
The regatta lasts for 5 days (Wednesday to Sunday) over the first weekend in July. Races are head-to-head competitions, over a 1 mile course. The regatta regularly attracts international crews to race. The most prestigious event at the regatta is the Grand Challenge Cup for Men's Eights, which has been awarded since the regatta was first staged.
The first known rowing races, began from competition among the professional watermen that provided ferry and taxi service along the River Thames in London. Prizes for wager races were often offered by the London Guilds and Livery Companies or wealthy owners of homes along the river. During the Nineteenth Century these races were to become numerous and popular, attracting large crowds. A contemporary sporting book lists 5000 such matches in the years 1835 to 1851. Prize matches amongst professionals similarly became popular on other rivers throughout Great Britain in the Nineteenth Century, notably attracting vast crowds on the Tyne. The oldest surviving such race, Doggett's Coat and Badge was first contested in 1715 and is still held annually from London Bridge to Chelsea.
In 1843,
the first American college rowing club was formed at Yale University. The Harvard-Yale Regatta
is the oldest intercollegiate sporting event in the United States
having been contested every year since 1852 (except
for occasional breaks due to major wars, such as World War II and the
US Civil War).
Always take time to
properly warm up before rowing. Spend
a
few
minutes stretching your arm and leg muscles. After
you're done for the day take a few minutes to cool down and enjoy the
natural high you're sure to feel after a good workout! Top
off
your day with
some easy stretches. Keep your muscles flexible and healthy
- make
stretching a part of your day!
Indoor rowing is an excellent low
impact
exercise!
You can have loads of healthy fun and burn a whole
bunch
of calories.
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