USNA Crew,How to Prepare?

I have accepted an appointment to the Class of 2021. I want to participate in USNA Crew team. How can I prepare physically? I have joined the YMCA and have been working out on the rowing machine as well as lifting weights.

IRow2021 said:

I have accepted an appointment to the Class of 2021. I want to participate in USNA Crew team. How can I prepare physically? I have joined the YMCA and have been working out on the rowing machine as well as lifting weights.

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There will be opportunities during PS to try out/walk on various sports. Erging is good - there are good workouts at http://www.concept2.com/indoor-rowers/training

http://www.concept2.com/indoor-rowers/training/technique-videos

Form is everything. Strength follows.

You have to get through PS first, preferably injury-free. That means lots of running on hard surfaces now and up to PS. Build up your distance, endurance and stamina. Push-ups and sit-ups/crunches every time you think about it, throughout the day. Be smart about the weight-lifting so that you don't lose flexibility and speed to bulk. You want to be all-around fit to get through the variety of morning exercises (PEP), running everywhere (again, hard surfaces) all day long (even inside), formation runs, and general non-stop activity. Shin splints and stress fractures derail those who haven't logged the daily miles and hardened their legs.

Search on this USNA forum using "rowing," by post or topic.

Congratulations on your appointment.

IRow2021 said:

I have accepted an appointment to the Class of 2021. I want to participate in USNA Crew team. How can I prepare physically? I have joined the YMCA and have been working out on the rowing machine as well as lifting weights.

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Do you row currently, for your school or a club? If possible, reach out to your current crew coach and ask for winter & spring training workouts. In addition, or instead if you don't attend a school or club that has a rowing program, you should contact the freshman coaches at Navy and ask them this question directly. Are you male or female? If male, would you row as a lightweight or heavyweight?

If you want to PM me some personal details, I can put you in touch with the correct freshman coach. And by personal details, I mean only the couple of questions I posted above. We (BGOs) are not permitted to discuss athletic performance, so don't share 2k/5k test times, even if you have them.

You can also find the coaches by going to navysport.com. While you may find names, you might not be able to find email and phone numbers, nor is it always clear who the plebe coach is.

I am on the lightweight rowing team at the Naval Academy. I would not worry specifically about getting good at rowing. The coaches there are pretty good at getting you into shape. Many of my teammates, myself included, are walk-ons and did other sports such as swimming, cross-country, or football in high school. I think general fitness is the best thing for you unless your already a rower and have good form.

Congrats on your appointment!

IRow2021,

I would take the advise Suddensam if you haven't done so already. I'm a Crew coach myself at a high school. The advise you will get from Suddensam will carry importance. Send the PM; there is experience in this offer that holds value.

I completely agree with USMC.action w/ regard to getting good at rowing. I have seen it at their camps where they can get all eight on the paddle in 10 minutes and full pressure in 20 minutes dropping in together, driving together, making the boat run out. Impressive coaching! That said there are some elements / skill-sets that will have an added value when you walk into their boathouse if you take hold of the offer Suddensam has offered.

Congrats on your appointment.

We shall see if my DD goes the same route with rowing or if she decides to do skeet. Yip big difference in the two but it's not my choice. Yes, if my DD decides to row I will also reach out to Suddensam.

Side Note: Suddensam, If you get to read this; Dan will be interviewing in April for subs... Hope all is well for you and yours.