Training camps and how to put your best foot forward.

Training camps are just around the corner and this article is dedicated to some top tips and tricks so that you can make the most of your performance, as well as staying happy and healthy.

Training camps are a great opportunity to find extra speed before the big races in the summer. The mileage you row increases, the intensity gets harder, and pressure builds. Few athletes will make it through the summer season without getting aches and pains. Annoyingly, most of us will experiences something, whether it is a flare up of a previous injury or experience a new injury from the increased training load. The best thing you can do is recognise the early signs and have a strategy ready to go so you catch it early and don’t let it affect your performance.

The reason injuries, aches and pains, and “niggles,” are common is for a few reasons. The training volume and load increases above what you are used to. The amount and type of recovery you have might be different. The food you’re eating might change too. You will probably also be with friends and typically this leads to later night and less quality sleep. These are just some of the factors and they will all have an impact.

I cannot stress this enough, there is always time in the day to do some active recovery and stretching. The top athletes are always proactive with stretching before and after sessions. If you’re not looking after yourself in the hours you are not rowing, then you are CHOOSING to jeprodise your performance. If you care about winning competitions in the summer, winning seat races, and winning medals; then you will make time to look after yourself 24 hours a day, not just when you are on the water.

Here are some top tips from my athletes and clients:

Josh Burke, TRC: “Keep the vibes high as it can be an intense environment and it keeps it fun. In terms of performance; stay hydrated and when it’s time to eat, EAT! Especially for young kids on camp, it can be the first time they’re doing that much volume.”

Darla Matthew, TRC: “Be careful with sun exposure. When you’re not rowing, chill out in the shade to avoid heat stroke or getting burnt.”

Beanie Spain, CUBC: “Eat as much ice cream and sweet treats as possible, enjoy it!”

Rosa Millard, TRC: “Don’t be afraid to have downtime alone and having good quality time with people that make you feel good. It’s so busy and hectic on camp and whilst it’s loads of fun, I think sometimes it’s super important to just have some quiet time alone. Then you can come back to the group refreshed and bring the best version of yourself.

Camp is supposed to be fun. There will be lots of factors changing from your normal routine. Control what you can control, have a giggle and relax. Look after your body.