15 Feb Physio Rowing Assessment
Why should you consider a Physio rowing assessment?
Rowing is a largely endurance sport that requires many areas of fitness including leg strength and power, flexibility, balance, timing and coordination. An efficient stroke relies on flexibility through the hamstrings, hips and lower back as well as quadriceps and gluteal muscles along with good control through the core and shoulder girdle. Reduced strength and control through these areas can lead to inefficient force transmission to the oar resulting in reduced performance and also an increase in injury risk.
Acute injuries are very uncommon in rowing. Most injuries are overuse injuries which are brought on by poor technique, muscle imbalances and sometimes inappropriate training loads. With appropriate management, these injuries can often be avoided if deficiencies are addressed early.
At SportsFit we offer rowing assessments, or rowing screening and injury prevention/management which is a vital part to success in the boat.
What does a rowing assessment involve?
Over one hour, your rowing physio will ask you questions about your rowing and injury history and understand your goals. They will then use a series of tests, including strength and flexibility, as well as videoing you on an ergo to look specifically at your technique. Following this you will then be given education and an exercise program to help you specifically.
In particular, as assessment includes:
- Initial Assessment to discuss current and past injuries and training history;
- Video analysis of ergo technique;
- Detailed musculoskeletal examination to establish potential causes of injury;
- Mutual goal setting to establish a program;
- Hands on physiotherapy as required;
- Guided exercise program (strength, flexibility, stability) to keep you in the boat, or get you back in the boat as soon as possible;
- Correct set up and technical advice on the rowing ergometer to maximise efficiency and minimise injury;
- Direct communication with coaches and/or program directors regarding an athlete’s condition, if consent is given by the athlete.
Who is suitable for a rowing assessment?
Rowing screening is suitable for all rowers, and is highly recommended especially if you would like to reduce your risk of getting injured or wanting to improve your performance in the boat. Whether you are new to rowing or have been rowing for years, all rowers who undertake an assessment will have the benefits of working on specific goals for their body.
What does a rowing assessment cost?
Assessments or screenings with a rowing physio cost $171. This session can be claimed through private health insurance (with appropriate extra’s cover) and at SportsFit can be claimed on the spot using Hicaps.
Why choose SportsFit?
Our physiotherapist Jodie Porter is a Rowing Australia preferred provider, and has the expert knowledge when it comes assessing and managing rowers. Rowing Australia preferred providers have undergone further training to advance their knowledge, while Jodie Porter is an experienced rower and coach themselves, and will help you to stay RowFit!
Book ONLINE today.