WINTER TRAINING: Winter training is an optional, but highly recommended, three month tune-up for all novice and returning rowers. Coaches encourage athletes to participate in a school sponsored winter sports. Those without are expected to attend winter training.
Erging, or simulated rowing, is the quickest way to learn rowing motions away from the water. Those rowers who diligently attend winter training will have a head start on technique and endurance once water season begins. In most cases, athletes who participate in winter training have the advantage over non-participating teammates when it comes to boat and line-up selections.
Winter training schedules may vary year to year, but in usually start the day after Thanksgiving break and run 3:30PM - 6:30PM each day after school at Fairfax. Students are encouraged to use the time between dismissal and the start of winter conditioning to meet with teachers and to finish make-up work from the school day. Come to the Field House Lobby dressed out with layers, running shoes, plenty of water and ready to go!
SUMMER and FALL: A number of daily summer and fall rowing camps are offered in the Virginia area. Additionally, colleges such as UVa, William & Mary and GMU have week-long camps that allow rowers to immerse themselves in a college environment while working out with other motivated athletes. These camps are a great way to stay in rowing shape during the off season. Links to each camp are provided. Coaches provide detailed workout plans for rowers driven to improve over the course of the summer.
Fall Green Days allow interested athletes to work with varsity rowers and coaches to learn basics of the sport and become familiar with the Occoquan.
The Fairfax High School Rowathon, Fall Picnic and Green Days are a great chance for prospective rowers to meet current athletes and the coaches.
For more info, contact coach Elissa Robinson at edrobinson@fcps.edu
