Winter Season
BACKGROUND
Since the mid-1980s the focal point for the off-water season has been rowing machines, or ergometers. Through the 1990s, indoor regattas, consisting of individuals attempting to achieve their best performance on the ergometer, have grown to become nearly as popular, and competitive, as the ‘on-water’ season.
TRAINING
Winter training focuses on the individual athlete, and the strengths, or weaknesses, they bring to the team. Some athletes may emphasize strength, endurance, and, or, technique work during the winter, depending on what must be achieved to earn a boat seat with the spring racing team.
SCHEDULE
While there is no general rule, winter training may begin anywhere from December through February. Winter training ends when the individual athlete’s goals have been achieved for indoor training, and when it is practical and safe to return to the water.