Dynamic Recovery: A Rower's Secret Weapon
CWSF · 2026 Curiosity & Ingenuity
Overview
In rowing, maximum efficiency is achieved through optimizing the rigging and oars and by perfecting the technique, in addition to strength training. Various approaches exist to the recovery part of the stroke when the oars are out of the water and the rower is sliding back to the "catch" position or the top of the stroke, when the oars re-enter the water and the drive begins. Some coaches advocate for the recovery to have slower hands movement away from the body while others prefer "faster hands". However, no definitive measurement exists. This project involves building a novel wireless seat sensor which monitors the athlete's movement within the boat to select the best recovery method. Cross-correlated with the GPS data from the RowingPrecision rowing computer the dynamic recovery technique is shown to provide up to 6% speed boost, a dramatic improvement for the sport where fraction of seconds count.
Awards (1)
- Selected for CWSF 2026
Competition history
- CWSF 2026
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