Indoor Rowing

Indoor rowing or “erging” is a great way to keep fit and a gateway to become involved with the sport. Two-time world champion, dual Olympian and Olympic medal winner Chris Morgan (AUBC) began his rowing career when he participated in an ergometer challenge at the Adelaide University Open Week – after winning the challenge, he learnt to row in one of the start-up programs within the university and went on to represent the country many times over.

You don’t need to be a river rower to participate or pick up the handle! The ergometer is used across so many disciplines and sports, all are welcome to participate.

Schools Indoor Rowing

RIGGERS Rowing Programs is a partnership between Rowing Australia and Sport Australia (SA) to deliver Sporting Schools, an Australian Government initiative to encourage more children to participate in sports.

With the extension of Sporting Schools until the end of 2024, primary and secondary schools are eligible to apply for funding to conduct sports activities before, during, or after school. Rowing Australia’s Riggers programs offer students aged 7-13 the chance to experience the fun of rowing in a safe and healthy environment while developing team-building skills, leadership, and cooperation.

The Riggers Indoor Rowing Program is an innovative youth engagement program that introduces primary school students in Years 3 to 6 and secondary students in Year 7 and 8to the sport of rowing using quality Indoor Rowing machines with fun activity cards to follow and progress through. The program consists of 4 x 45 minute sessions that help students learn how to row by having fun and playing games while keeping participants engaged and safe. Each session progresses into the next, and the program can be adapted to the needs, abilities, and progress of the group. The program can be delivered by existing qualified coaches or by teachers who complete Rowing Australia’s online accreditation course. Watch the video below o learn more about the Riggers Indoor Rowing Program.

The basics of the rowing Stroke

Rowing stroke consists of the drive (work portion) and recovery (rest portion)
Recovery movements are the reverse of the drive and should be blended smoothly
Catch position: arms straight, head neutral, level shoulders, forward lean, vertical shins
Drive: press legs, swing back, add arm pull, keep hands straight and shoulders relaxed
Finish: lean back slightly, support with core, extend legs, hold handle lightly below ribs, keep shoulders and wrists relaxed and flat
Recovery: extend arms, lean forward from hips, allow knees to bend, slide seat forward gradually on monorail, return to catch position with relaxed shoulders and vertical shins
Breathing rhythm can affect workout and can be coordinated with stroke through practice