kindproject

rowing for health

Posted by jonathan - 18/07/08 at 03:07:06 pm

Two weeks ago I started the learn to row class offered by the passaic river rowing association. In just two weeks our diverse class was able to get everyone in the 8-person boat rowing. While not winning any races or style awards yet, its an amazing feeling when the stoke and rhythm clicks. I rarely get more than a couple strokes in a row that feel right, but I’m looking forward to more. The class is run by a fun couple, gail and jeff, who are also teaching the class. Jeff is a coach of local high school teams and is very encouraging. I love being out on the water even though the passiac river is relatively polluted, tidal and urban. It makes me think twice about consuming so many drinks out of plastic bottles.

Many people have asked why I took the class and it comes down to three reasons. One, I wanted an entirely new activity. Two, I need the exercise as I could afford to drop twenty pounds and waterboarding seems like more fun than running to me. Third, I was looking for a sport where I do not have to see very well. With rowing I can rely on other peoples eye’s since my crappy continually detaching, now edema plagued fubared left eye does not allow me to do things like cycle because I have to come to a complete stop in order to turn left.

Its the best activity I have done since tai-chi. Its got meditative qualities, team bonding and an athletic workout. I encourage you to give it a try.

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