PREPARATION
They say 98% of the effort is getting to the start line!
Preparing to row across the Atlantic is the culmination of 3 years meticulous planning, certification and core physical training… and hundreds of lists !
The Worlds Toughest Row requires each participant to be RYA certificated in:
• RYA Essential Navigation & Seamanship
• RYA First AID at sea
• Short Range Radio Licence
• RYA Sea Survival
This course, in my case, was conducted by Dawn Wood from AURORA Sea School.
My focus has been to improve my core physical strength. This has involved lots of deadlifts using weights & over 2 years I have been preparing my body to row across an ocean.
My thanks to my Personal Trainer Corin Vanterpool & Anytime Fitness, Maidenhead.
Rowing across the Atlantic is a physically demanding challenge.
It’s essential to train rigorously for some time prior to the race in order to build up endurance and strength. The ergo is our go-to during land training.
Training includes a combination of cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and endurance training.
Training at 5am provides mental preparation !
The weather is an integral part of ocean rowing. Understanding the weather patterns and using that information to plan ahead can make a real difference.
Ocean rowers need to have the wind aft of the beam for as much time as possible, & this means looking ahead to divert away from conditions that may hinder progress or speed.
During the race a shore-based Weather Router can help make the voyage be more efficient.
On water, ocean rowing training is essential to enable one to train safely, optimise performance, build resilience and thrive out on the ocean.
Getting to know ones boat is a vital part of preparing for the race.
I have read just about every book on ocean rowing in order to learn from others who have already achieved this feat.
