Hello friends! I turned 30 and wanted to add some excitement to my life, improve my fitness, and pick up a new hobby. During my search, I was looking for a sport that would both challenge me physically and connect me with nature. And there it was, changing my life completely: rowing!
A Beautiful Madness Working My Muscles: Rowing Sport
Rowing is a fantastic activity that engages multiple muscle groups simultaneously. I quickly noticed its effective impact on my legs, back, arms, and shoulder muscles. This not only enhanced my physical endurance but also helped improve my overall body shape.
The Thought of ‘Can I?’ Transitioned into ‘I’m Doing It for Sure!
While initially thinking that rowing would be a challenging activity, my excitement grew as I delved into my research. I started by exploring rowing communities, social media platforms like Facebook (Indoor Rowing Community), Instagram (World Rowing Official), and YouTube channels (The Rowing Network).
On Reddit, the “r/Rowing” community brought together rowers and enthusiasts worldwide, providing a space for different skill levels to ask questions and share experiences.
Finally, I visited a rowing club, had a chat with fellow enthusiasts, and decided to paddle into the waves. I’ve marked the channels I follow for you to explore.
Choosing a Boat: My First Step into Professional Territory
During my research into boat manufacturers catering to professionals, Empacher and Filippi stood out for their high performance and durability. These brands appeal to both professional rowers aiming for competitions and enthusiasts looking for a recreational rowing experience. I opted for the Filippi brand, but there are various other reputable manufacturers to consider.
Igniting the Excitement
While choosing a brand might not seem crucial initially, the dynamic structure and performance level of the boat make the sport more enjoyable. Trusting established brands and savoring the experience is key. Although there are many details to consider when making a choice, they are not essential for beginners.
At this stage, consider:
- Material, which affects the boat’s weight and performance.
- A balanced boat that ensures a stable progression on the water.
- The length and width of the boat, influencing its performance. A longer boat is generally faster, while width provides balance and stability.
- The boat should be designed based on the user’s size and the rower’s body type.
Dazzling Events in Europe and America: Rowing Championships and Festivals
There are so many rowing enthusiasts that all events and competitions are filled to the brim. There are numerous exciting rowing events you can participate in.
The European Rowing Championships is a spectacular event that combines both competition and gathers rowing enthusiasts.
The Henley Royal Regatta, one of the world’s oldest and prestigious rowing competitions held in the United Kingdom every summer, brings together elite rowers from around the world.
The Head of the Charles Regatta in the United States is one of the largest rowing races globally, occurring annually in Boston and hosting amateur and professional rowers worldwide.
The Boat Race, held in the UK, is a traditional rowing race between Oxford and Cambridge universities, holding significant importance in the university rowing world.
Additionally, rowing festivals in many countries encourage the participation of non-professional athletes.
Tips for Beginners:
If you are just starting rowing, you might find it challenging at first, but don’t give up! Regular training and patience will take you to your desired level. Joining local rowing clubs to learn from experienced rowers and having a strong support system is also a fantastic idea.
Rowing is an activity that nourishes not only the body but also the soul. It’s a perfect time for a fresh start, and it’s definitely worth trying, just like it was for me!
Let’s grab the oars and start rowing through life!