To put it simply, I am thankful for the row I had this morning. Calm water as far as the eye could see. 75 degrees. Easy speed. Low splits. Low heart rate. Simple strokes. This row was the definition of a jaunt.
I went about 22 k cruising at 18 spm with my HR in the 130's and 140's. So very low intensity. Boat speed was about 2.08-2.12. Considering my exertion and stroke rate, those splits are pretty good. My goal speed for a SS row at 155-160 HR is about 2.00. Obviously, those splits are achievable for just about any single sculler, the difference is the perceived effort and the sustainability of the speed. This takes years. Today was the first day I was honestly hitting or exceeding those targets without my effort level rising, it was very steady and not really elevating at any point. A lot of that speaks to the quality of the technique. An effective technique makes the system machine like and un-tiring. When done correctly, the boat seems to be going on its own, and you are just supplying enough energy to keep the system going. It's a very rare feeling but something the best boats in the world certainly feel all the time. Today's row was such a time. The difficulty is keeping that system moving the same way as you apply more and more energy and effort.
This afternoon I am sure the wind will pick up per usual. That's OK. This morning was worth it.
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