PAIN & PUDDLES
COACHING
Whatever experience you bring to coaching, there’s always more to learn. The majority of coaches say they gain skills and knowledge from other coaches more than from certifications. Need a different perspective, new ideas, or a refresher? Search below.
When Weather Turns Foul…
The skies got dark and the winds started whipping. Strong gusts blew across the surface of the river, kicking up spray that showered the rowers. The chop got bigger, the spray more biting. The novice rowers did their best to drive against the forces of mother nature, and the novice coxswains steeled their nerves and held on tight to the steering cables…
Flipping a Four: What to Do When the Unexpected Happens
It's rare that a crew flips a big boat, which makes it even more important for coaches, rowers, and coxswains to know what to do in case of emergency.
Yes, I’m Emotional
I wore my heart on my sleeve and paid the price. I was described as "emotional" and "temperamental" – words never used to label the men that coached before me.
The Alliance of Women Rowing Coaches
The Alliance is a community that seeks to drive and influence the involvement of women as coaches at all levels of our sport.
Global Inclusive Learn to Row Project an Opportunity for LTR Coaches
A new project from Seize the Oar allows LTR coaches a coaching outlet while boathouses are closed and LTR classes are on hold due to COVID-19.
The Provenance of Plop (aka Perfect Splash)
This splash happens with a simple lift of the forearm and wrist. The blade enters quickly enough to cause water to jerk upwards on both sides of the blade.
45 Drills for Fine-Tuning Technique
Looking for drill ideas for your crew? Download this free Coach's Drill Card - a handy cheat sheet for any coach.
Four (and a half) Tips for Rowing in Wind
If only the water was like glass every day, every row. But when the wind picks up, be prepared to handle it by staying relaxed and rowing well.
An Ode to O-Dark-Thirty
You adjust your spandex as you approach the boathouse and feign an attempt to organize your bedhead. The sun won't crack the horizon for 30 minutes.
A Coaching Launch with a View
I coach to help inspire people to realize their potential, but the sunrise views from the launch are pretty great, too.
Into the Bounce
The bounce is the self-limiting “front stop” as a rower approaches the catch. Using it to propel the boat is an important moment in the cycle.
4 Lessons from the 2014 Snowflake Regatta Debacle
Rowers, coxswains, officials, and parents all play a role in creating a positive regatta experience, in which the lessons of sportsmanship rules.
Perfect Phrases for Coaches
From the first day of practice, through workouts, and before a big race, coaches are challenged to address crews in clear, concise ways that gets results.
Pick Drill Variations for Coaching Stroke Progression
The standard pick drill is a go-to warm up for crews everywhere. Check out these variations to promote your crew's concentration, relaxation, and timing.
Pause Drills: Coaching Timing and Control in the Boat
Pause drills are a go-to for crews from novice to National Team. Check out these variations to promote your crew's concentration, relaxation, and timing.