Rowing coaches love to discuss rowing technique! Since RCA developed the Long Term Athlete Development Plan, there has been more discussion about what technique is recommended for athletes at different stages of their development. Using the LTAD plan and the phases of skill development, Al will outline considerations that coaches must be aware of when coaching various styles.

F2-2 Skill Error Detection & Correction – Chuck McDiarmid

As part of the Level 2 technical workshop, will present the common technical elements in the RCA model technique emphasizing the importance of the principles of good rowing technique – good posture, correct use of hands and blade work. Common technical errors will be identified and discussed as it pertains to efficiency and boat speed. Corrections and drills will be discussed.

F3 & 4-2 Technique and Styles Seen in Canadian National Team Rowing

Carsten Hassing, Mike Spracklen, Al Morrow
The National Team coaches will discuss the various styles that we see in National Team rowers. Each coach will show the main features of the style and why this is effective with their athletes. Participants will have an opportunity to ask questions and discuss technique philosophy.

F2-3 Strength Training - Ed McNeely & Siobhan McLaughlin

As part of the Level 2 technical workshop, this workshop will deal with the importance of proper strength training at various stages of the athletes development. Ed and Siobahn will teach coaches on the important lifts and exercises for rowing. They will also discuss where strength fits in the LTAD and the critical windows of trainability relating to long term athlete development. This session is an active participation session. Coaches should come dressed to be active

F3-3 – Rigging and Biomechanics – Andrew Carter

Rigging and technique are a genuine part of biomechanics in rowing. Coaches can only understand rigging if they know the basics of biomechanics. Therefore, rigging will be explained in this lecture from its biomechanical background. We will discuss how different manipulations on the boat transfer to rowing technique and how rigging can alter different rowing technique faults. Coaches will hear the basics of rigging as well as tips on how to improve athlete performance with sound biomechanical analysis

F4-3 Group discussion & Analysis re: various technical styles.

The purpose of this workshop is to give RCA National Team Coaches and conference delegates an opportunity to review, understand and ask questions about various technical styles being coached in Canada. In small groups, delegates can identify questions about the style being coached by the individual NT Coaches.

FO-3 & 4 – Planning a Season – Tim Taha

This session will provide an in-depth examination of how to plan an effective periodized program for rowers in the Training to Train & Learning to Compete stage. What types of workouts? How to integrate anaerobic and aerobic training into the program? How to effectively use the categories of intensity? How should be peaking be managed? How can my program be designed to ensure the long term development of the athlete? Coaches should bring their competition calendar.

F3-4 Practical Rigging Session – Andrew Carter, Allison Dobb, Howie Campbell

This practical session will involve hands-on demonstration involving rigging in both sculling and sweep. A variety of different types of boats will be available to rig. Participants should bring measuring tapes, rigging sticks and pitch meters. Bring all of your rigging questions to be answered by the experts. This session is intended to help the coach prepare for the Level 3 practical task on rigging.
Coaches should bring their own tools for this rigging session

F4-4 – Speed Management with the NK Speed Coach – Terry Paul and Frank Biller

This workshop will cover a number of areas pertaining to how a coach/crew can manage speed including monitoring workouts, technique changes, race strategy, rigging and even selection. How does the coach work with the crew to find the optimal race strategy? How can you manage workout loads, monitor heart rate and progress? Can I test to see if the technique changes will make a difference in hull speed? Can I use the Speed Coach to find the most efficient rig or to test new equipment? This workshop will be a good mix of practical tips, demonstrating real examples with data as well as anecdotal evidence. Our goal is to make this an entertaining session that also allows for feedback and discussion with attendees.