Rowing is a phantastic sport – also for the observer. I really appriciate watching the rowers during their training on our river “Weser”. And watching rowing is an excellent training vor watching movement: Up to 8 people make the same movement simultaiously – and the differences in the individual coordination become really obvious.
For two days now I have been sitting in a “gig” boat – for cheer curiousity: Does the Alexander Technique something to offer for coaxmen and if yes – what?
First interview with amateur rowers and a rowing coach ranged from ” ´Probably only for women` to ´Interesting – but what are the benefits?`
Great Britain the – quasi – home of the Alexander Technique is far ahead in this case! I found this: Olympic games 2004 Athens – mens coxless four
Two of the for gold medal champions took Alexander Technique lessons. Guess who! The differences ar amazing! Whatch the video and compare the coaxmen in terms of:
- poise and “length” of the spine
- use / deflection of the hip joints
- “orthogonal” orientation with the boat (two of the rowers are a bit “off”)
- overall impression of calmness and coolness during extreme performanceI am looking forward to your observations and feedback!
I would answer the questions for benefits with my todays knowledge like this:
- The Alexander Technique trains movement economy – every spare calory can make a diffrence!
- The Alexander Technique trains balance – important, because the course of the boat shouldn´t be disturbed
- The Alexander Technique trains body knowledge. the correct use of hip joint releases pressure in the spine, frees the breath and the full range of arm musculature.
- The Alexander Technique trains a good use of oneself in terms of excitement and tension.
Find here the article with quotes of the collegue and the solution of the little quiz: http://techniqueforliving.blogspot.de/2013/07/pull-harder-what-about-pulling.html
Many thanks to Alexandra Cornelius for patient questioning, explaining and analysis!