Another Favourite Blog Post by Drew Ginn. This time about coaches and coaching titled Coaches & Coaching: The Art Form (Tue 24 Jun 2008) ..
[..] From directing, to coaching, to supporting and delegating. It's important to understand that coaches need to be adaptable and flexible in the style to best suit the athlete and the situation.
From what I have been exposed to over the years I have had coaches who have all been different and at certain times they have suited my needs and other time they have not quiet matched up to what I have needed. This has also played out in relation to the situation also.
Recently our coach, Chris worked on being more directed and coaching in his style. After we got back into things it was required that he shift his focus to suit our situation. It was a different energy and help us greatly in getting the ball rolling again. We have been good at working with him in a more supportive and delegating way which relates to our experience and willingness to be involve and responsible for our preparation and performance.
Years ago with the four, Noel Donaldson was great at managing the group and as such operated well in a supportive capacity. This did not mean at times he didn't shift into directing the group and coaching but it was often a quick switch and very effective in getting a response.
Now when I think of my development years at times I need a good kick up the ass. And well I had a few good coaches that did it perfectly. My only concern with this style of directing is that at some point the emphasis needs to shift and if it doesn't then problems and or confusion can grow.
In Australia right now we have a large variety of coaches with such a range of experiences and history in the sport. I am sure there is a different level of ambition and ego too. Surely they are no different to the athletes in one sense. They want to be the best they can be. They want to be the best. They I would have thought would want what is best for their athletes. Some times these two things can be in conflict which to me is the coaching dilemma.
This [leads] me to consider what it can be like in a crew also. In fact it goes to the heart of teamwork and why it can be so challenging to get it right. In a boat you want to do the best you can. You also want the team to do it best. You want everyone one to do there best. The dilemma then is what is the priority then? What are you measure by? What drives what and what can bring it all undone? These question like the coaches dilemma are very important in understanding why some times things work and other times they don't.
At this level everyone has ability and everyone has performed in a way to get to where they are. There fine line between wanting something for your self and wanting something for others is a fickle and often precarious position. You need to be motivated to be the best, but this need has to stay in check with relation to the motivation for the collective effort.
I mention all this because coaching like rowing is about balancing the influences, expectations and needs of all involved. Although the coaching view of things is some what objective if this is all that is focused on then the nature of the art form is lost in the numbers. The subtlety of shifting and adapting is needed with out being reactionary. A coaches view is often more comprehensive. They have to take in more information about performance on and off the water. This is the challenge and to honor all perspective is critical.
Coaches like athlete need to be masters of their art form to have longevity. When I say master I refer to the ability to stay even in their presence and maintain consistency while subtly shifting focus based on what the situation requires.
As an athlete I know I need a coach. I enjoy having a person who I can work with to enable the best outcome. I have been fortunate to have what I would say as some of the great coached from our sport. Noel and Chris have been a major factor in me getting this far and assisting in helping me to not only be a better athlete but better person.
This I am sure is not unique to me, I am sure many athletes have and will continue to feel this way about their coaches.
Lots to think about in this one.
Showing posts with label Favourite Blog Posts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Favourite Blog Posts. Show all posts
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
Process - Vern Gambetta (Thu 09 Jun 2011)
Another fantastic post from Vern Gambetta (e):
Process by Vern Gambetta (Thu 09 Jun 2011):
Process, get absorbed in it and revel in it because process is the secret!
Focus on the process and the outcome will take care of itself.
To win a championship or a gold medal is a process, it is not a one off event.
You win championships and medals a little bit at a time, bite-by-bite, chunk-by-chunk, a series of small wins and forward moving baby steps.
We see the leaps and bounds in performance because they are so big and very visible but it is the small things the details that make the difference.
It is the small things executed with focus and purpose that make the big leaps in performance possible.
There is no secret; the devil is in the details executed with consistent effort directed toward the ultimate performance goal.
Don’t make it complicated.
Keep it simple and straightforward.
Make it measurable and manageable.
Focus on the process and the outcome will follow.
In my experience, Gav is the one that has pushed this line of thought in our training and racing. Thanks to Gav, I have known and have felt this even before Vern described it so succintly and brillantly in this post. Definitely another Favourite Blog Post.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Ridden into the Ground and Loving It - Drew Ginn (Wed 08 May 2007)
Another Favourite Blog Post by Drew Ginn.
A great way of thinking about a maximum effort in any endurance sport.
I have taken up RPM again for my cardio fitness and the great thing with RPM Indoor Bike Sessions is that I get a chance to explore all these feelings in every 45 minute session.
For me it is a great way of training the mind to Win the Workout.
Bikes - Levento / Italy (Thu 11 Aug 2005)
A great way of thinking about a maximum effort in any endurance sport.
I have taken up RPM again for my cardio fitness and the great thing with RPM Indoor Bike Sessions is that I get a chance to explore all these feelings in every 45 minute session.
For me it is a great way of training the mind to Win the Workout.
Ridden into the Ground and Loving It - Drew Ginn (Wed 08 May 2007)
It is an extreme sensation to run out of gas on the bike.
It's a wonderfully strange feeling that is painful, magical and exciting.
The energy this morning as we rode ourselves into the ground was very cool.
Each challenge to dig deeper was meet with that fear of failure, of seizing up, of not being able to hang on.
It was think like a sea fog and could not be escaped.
If for one moment we were to back off it would be the end.
The only choice was to roll on and push again into that space of fatigue and sting.
The remarkable thing is each time I go into this place, into this zone I find something special, something new.
A freshness presented itself and as I pushed further.
I found that I couldn’t just stand and fight, punch myself out.
Be smart w[as] a statement I could hear like a whisper from an invisible friend.
Be smart, again it came into my awareness.
We swung round a corner and the pace quickened, the surge is extraordinary and it occurred outside and within.
If for a moment I was to hesitate I knew I would loose connection, so to drive again was the command.
The pleasure is in the relationship the lies within the range and scope of extremes.
The vastness of feelings marks a cycle.
Not just the one we ride but the one that is ever present inside us.
The burning grew and as it did I thought, "how can I maintain this effort?"
Then in one foul and almighty swoop we were away again.
The release was wonderful as I gained new energy to challenge and step.
Every stroke of the pedal was one closer to the end of our ride.
As we encountered a slight rise away from another bend it had become noticeably more difficult.
The build up of accumulated resistance was so filling and even the little climb was laughing at us.
We dug, I dug and before we realised we are over and off again.
The joy was like a chorus of celebration that burst and gradually it turned into new momentum.
The final stretch was into a strengthening wind.
The speed became hard to maintain and as I noticed my position matching the challenge.
Lower and lower I became, grinding away.
The pressure was had developed into a constant strain that would not let up until the end of the straight.
As we crossed an imaginary line we sat up like some proud animal in the wild after a kill.
Gasping for air we an evident sign of the effort require and expended.
The wry smiles told the story and we rolled into our coffee shop and embarked on a different journey.
One of reflection as we each shared our version of the morning’s events.
We were all exhausted, we had ridder ourselves into the ground and we loved it.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Being the Best – Take Action Now by Vern Gambetta (Wed 06 Oct 2010)
Vern follows up on his post Thoughts on being the Best (11 Nov 2011) with the following:
Being the Best – Take Action Now (Wed 06 Oct 2010) ..
Without ACTION these are all just words. Take ACTION now!
He expands with the following:
As always, Vern has a great blog and it is always worth following his posts.
Jenny two weeks after liver resection - ERG Practice - Bank Street / Sydney (Sun 03 Jun 2007)
Jenny two weeks after liver resection - ERG Practice - Bank Street / Sydney (Sun 03 Jun 2007)
Jo ready to crack 400m for 2min - ERG Practice - Bank Street / Sydney (Sun 03 Jun 2007)
Joanne, Geoff and Jenny - Masters Men and Womens 500m Silver Medalists - IDBF World Championships / Sydney 2007 (Sun 23 Sep 2007)
Being the Best – Take Action Now (Wed 06 Oct 2010) ..
- Be Smart - Work on something specific each day. Have a plan! Train with a purpose. Improvement is incremental. Does not have to be big. Small steps lead to big steps.
ACTION: ... - Pressure is what you make it! Embrace it. Put yourself in pressure situations to learn. Use the pressure to make you better, internalize it and use it as a positive influence.
ACTION: ... - Belief – If you don’t believe in yourself who will? Think you are the best and you are on your way. Confidence, believe in yourself, your preparation and in your support system.
ACTION: ... - Routine – Great athletes do the same thing, the same way, at the same time each day. Regularity. You can set a clock by the routines of the great ones.
ACTION: ... - Work - Everyone works. The great ones work smarter with a sense of purpose. Analyze your strengths and weaknesses objectively. Then work to minimize your weaknesses and optimize your strengths. Bring your weaknesses up to the level of your strengths.
ACTION: ... - Choices - It is always about choices. Make the conscious choice to be the best. Life is constantly about choices.
ACTION: ...
Without ACTION these are all just words. Take ACTION now!
He expands with the following:
In bold are the qualities with an explanation, but those are just qualities. Underneath each item you see the word ACTION. [..] Over the years I have learned it is too easy to set goals or to talk about being the best, unless those goals are followed up by specific actions it just is a very temporary feel good process. Each individual needs to take control and decide on the they action they will take. They must establish ownership. Do not recommend or assign an action for them.
As always, Vern has a great blog and it is always worth following his posts.
Thoughts on Being the Best by Vernon Gambetta (11 Nov 2008)
Thoughts on Being the Best by Coach Vernon Gambetta (11 Nov 2008). A repost to get this to come up on the Tampa 2011 Label. It is also worth having a look at some of the other posts I have collected here.
Control what you can, not what you can’t! Be Smart. Work on something specific each day. Have a plan! Train with a purpose. Improvement is incremental. Small steps lead to big steps.
A copy of a blog post that I always come back to. Learnt a lot from this and all of Vern's writing.
Geoff an Jim Farintosh Canadian Senior Mixed/Open Coach and Sweep - Racice Prague - Fri 29 Aug 2009
Always take the time to say hello to Jim Farintosh from Toronto. First met him at Sydney 2007 when he coached and swept the Canadian Senior Open and Mixed Teams. Next said hello in Penang in Aug 2008 where he coached and swept the Toronto area "Mayfair Predators". Decided in Prague to finally get a photo with him after the Senior Open's 200m medal presentation. A top coach and a person who is obviously highly regarded by his peers.
Control what you can, not what you can’t! Be Smart. Work on something specific each day. Have a plan! Train with a purpose. Improvement is incremental. Small steps lead to big steps.
- Pressure - Pressure is what you make it! Use the pressure to make you better, internalize it and use it as a positive influence.
- Belief – Think you are the best and you are on your way. Confidence, believe in yourself, your preparation and your support system.
- Routine – Great athletes doing the same thing, the same way, at the same time each day. Regularity. You can set a clock by the great ones.
- Work - Every one works. The great ones work smarter. Analyze your strengths and weaknesses objectively. Minimize your weaknesses and optimize your strengths. Bring your weaknesses up to the level of your strengths.
- Choices - It is always about choices. Make the choice to be the best. Life is constantly about choices.
- Improvement - Michael Jordan, as good as he was, got better every year he played! He would pick one aspect of his game each off-season and set out to improve that aspect with relentless determination.
- Perfection - The perfect game has yet to be played, in fact it will probably never be played. The perfect race has yet to be run. That does not mean we should not strive for perfection, it does mean that that we should strive for perfection but not be frustrated when we do not achieve perfection. Take chances, risk, try a new move in a game, take on a defender. Make things happen!
- Mental Toughness - Physical preparation gives mental strength. Push yourself, do not give in. Go the extra step and the extra mile.
- Effort - Performance may vary, but effort is a constant. You have control over your effort. Make it high energy, high level and purposeful. Consistent effort will level out the peaks and valleys in performance.
- Goals - It is about goal achievement not goal setting. Anyone can set goals, but few can achieve goals! Dreams are private. Goals are public. Share them. Find people to support you to achieve your goals. Be specific both in setting your goals and the means to achievement. Constantly visualize yourself achieving your goals!
- Focus - No rabbit ears! Program your inner voice to respond only to what you tell it. Only listen to your positive self-talk. Filter out the negatives.
- Evaluation - Self-assessment is a constant for those who chose to be great. Be objective. Look at the positives and the negatives. It is an ongoing process. Evaluation and self-assessment are a series of stepping-stones necessary to climb the staircase of success.
A copy of a blog post that I always come back to. Learnt a lot from this and all of Vern's writing.
Always take the time to say hello to Jim Farintosh from Toronto. First met him at Sydney 2007 when he coached and swept the Canadian Senior Open and Mixed Teams. Next said hello in Penang in Aug 2008 where he coached and swept the Toronto area "Mayfair Predators". Decided in Prague to finally get a photo with him after the Senior Open's 200m medal presentation. A top coach and a person who is obviously highly regarded by his peers.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Change [Inspiration] by Drew Ginn (11 Jun 2010)
Change by Drew Ginn (11 Jun 2007) ..
[..] Other influences have been other athletes and crews.
Some of the major shifts in perception I have experienced have come about from observing what others do.
At a critical point two athletes stood out to me more than even the guys like the Oarsome Foursome.
Richard Wearne and Rob Walker raced the pair for Australia in 1994 and 1995.
Through their performances in those years they brought the idea and the possibility of being able to mix it at the highest level in to sharp focus.
The reason for this was that when I came into the sport the likes of the Oarsome Foursome were already established and they commanded attention.
In the season of 94 I was an U23 athlete just starting out and during out domestic season I had the chance to race against Richard and Rob in small boats.
At the time they were not together in the pair but I can still remember vividly when they became selected as the pair and went on to race at the World and win the bronze medal.
I thought, wow look at what those guys did that was amazing, and I was racing against them here in Australia.
It blew my mind to think that they were that good.
To compete in the way they did and to challenge the best in the World in the pair was something that triggered inside me a sense of possibility.
I heard many stories about how they went from selection into training and how they changed from domestic athletes into international competitors.
They weren’t big like Redgrave and co. They weren’t as laid back and considered as talented like the Oarsome Foursome.
They were races and found a harmony in the boat that enabled them to fly in the pair. They took on the challenge and performed.
It showed the way for a new generation to follow. They bridged the gap that had formed behind the four.
What’s amazing was how after they broke through so many other athletes started to believe they could do it to.
The gap had finally been crossed. [..]
Another part (2nd of 3) from a Favourite Blog Post titled Change by Drew Ginn (11 Jun 2007).
The point of this is that we can be inspired and motivated by others (ignition as Dan Coyle calls it in the Talent Code). A few people have helped me Believe and have inspired me to achieve things I would never have considered possible.
I hope that others might also Believe that anything is possible if we believe and take up the challenges before us
Senior Mixed 500m Final - Prague/Day 4 - 29 Aug 2009
Video: Senior Mixed 500m Final - Prague/Day 4 - 29 Aug 2009
Premier Mixed 500m Final - Macau/China - Sat 31 Jul 2010
Premier Mixed 500m Final - Pacific Dragons - Lane 2 - Macau/China - Sat 31 Jul 2010
[..] Other influences have been other athletes and crews.
Some of the major shifts in perception I have experienced have come about from observing what others do.
At a critical point two athletes stood out to me more than even the guys like the Oarsome Foursome.
Richard Wearne and Rob Walker raced the pair for Australia in 1994 and 1995.
Through their performances in those years they brought the idea and the possibility of being able to mix it at the highest level in to sharp focus.
The reason for this was that when I came into the sport the likes of the Oarsome Foursome were already established and they commanded attention.
In the season of 94 I was an U23 athlete just starting out and during out domestic season I had the chance to race against Richard and Rob in small boats.
At the time they were not together in the pair but I can still remember vividly when they became selected as the pair and went on to race at the World and win the bronze medal.
I thought, wow look at what those guys did that was amazing, and I was racing against them here in Australia.
It blew my mind to think that they were that good.
To compete in the way they did and to challenge the best in the World in the pair was something that triggered inside me a sense of possibility.
I heard many stories about how they went from selection into training and how they changed from domestic athletes into international competitors.
They weren’t big like Redgrave and co. They weren’t as laid back and considered as talented like the Oarsome Foursome.
They were races and found a harmony in the boat that enabled them to fly in the pair. They took on the challenge and performed.
It showed the way for a new generation to follow. They bridged the gap that had formed behind the four.
What’s amazing was how after they broke through so many other athletes started to believe they could do it to.
The gap had finally been crossed. [..]
Another part (2nd of 3) from a Favourite Blog Post titled Change by Drew Ginn (11 Jun 2007).
The point of this is that we can be inspired and motivated by others (ignition as Dan Coyle calls it in the Talent Code). A few people have helped me Believe and have inspired me to achieve things I would never have considered possible.
I hope that others might also Believe that anything is possible if we believe and take up the challenges before us
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Change by Drew Ginn (11 Jun 2007)
Change by Drew Ginn (11 Jun 2007)
[..] When I think of change and in particular the change the is require for any athlete to go from ok to great, it is them and their coaches who take the critical steps that are all to often considered to risky.
That is what change is.
It’s taking a risk, and it’s letting go and facing the challenges that need to be confronted.
The examples are everywhere and they are ever changing themselves and with every rise and fall it is understood to be a natural part of the process.
So to all who are willing to change the rewards are without limit. If though the thought of stepping into the unknown scares you well you may as well [leave] , because there is no smooth static path.
We need to move, we need to adapt, and we need to change if we are to realise what’s possible when you take that leap of faith.
Another great post from Drew Ginn. There are lots of points in this one. I have just drawn this one out for now. A couple more to follow which seem relevant based on recent experiences.
Back to this one. Lots of changes have occured already with plenty more to come. I have always accepted change, though the first steps are always hard. As Drew says we need to let go, [..] move, adapt [..] change [.. and] take that leap of faith.
The road to Tampa2011 started today. Happy to have made a decision and it's now a risk I want to take. Not sure how far I will go, but need to start somewhere. Let the Climb begin.
[Addendum: Self-delusion and self-loathing Posted by Seth Godin just after I posted the above. Might be something in what he writes. For me, there could be a bit of both there, and probably more of one than the other :-)]
Joanne, Serge and Geoff - Wujin/China - Sun 2 May 2010
[..] When I think of change and in particular the change the is require for any athlete to go from ok to great, it is them and their coaches who take the critical steps that are all to often considered to risky.
That is what change is.
It’s taking a risk, and it’s letting go and facing the challenges that need to be confronted.
The examples are everywhere and they are ever changing themselves and with every rise and fall it is understood to be a natural part of the process.
So to all who are willing to change the rewards are without limit. If though the thought of stepping into the unknown scares you well you may as well [leave] , because there is no smooth static path.
We need to move, we need to adapt, and we need to change if we are to realise what’s possible when you take that leap of faith.
Another great post from Drew Ginn. There are lots of points in this one. I have just drawn this one out for now. A couple more to follow which seem relevant based on recent experiences.
Back to this one. Lots of changes have occured already with plenty more to come. I have always accepted change, though the first steps are always hard. As Drew says we need to let go, [..] move, adapt [..] change [.. and] take that leap of faith.
The road to Tampa2011 started today. Happy to have made a decision and it's now a risk I want to take. Not sure how far I will go, but need to start somewhere. Let the Climb begin.
[Addendum: Self-delusion and self-loathing Posted by Seth Godin just after I posted the above. Might be something in what he writes. For me, there could be a bit of both there, and probably more of one than the other :-)]
Monday, September 6, 2010
Full Capacity by Drew Ginn (23 May 2007)
Full Capacity by Drew Ginn (23 May 2007)
[..] It is amazing to put everything into a single stroke.
So when I refer to full capacity I know it can relate to fatigue but on this occasion it was about maximum force.
It was as if I was producing peak force every stroke and what becomes noticeable is when I cam off the boil just slightly.
The difference between sitting on 1.34 and 1.35 is so fine and yet full capacity is in reality maybe not sustainable.
So what I was playing with was going to full capacity and then staying aware of how I was producing that force.
Relaxation and breathing were key and speed of movement was critical.
Once I started to find I began working hard it was like being presented with a choice. A fork in the road, with one option being to muscle it and try to work harder and harder or the other was to relax into it and trust that by keeping the intention of speed, relaxation and by using a strong breathing rhythm.
Well a couple of times I went down the path to option one and a few times down the path to option two. The result was clear to sustain the output and ease of drive was actually possible with the later.
So stepping up to full capacity is one element in the equation to optimal performance, the other being the ability to sustain the intensity.
It was a great little test and I will keep in mind during our preparation for the Worlds this year.
Another Favourite Blog Post from Drew Ginn.
A nice follow on from the previous post - One Stroke (29 Apr 2008) by Drew.
Dragons Abreast Sydney (DAS) - Full Capacity - CNY 2005 - Feb 2005
Dragons Abreast Sydney (DAS) - Full Capacity - Woronora Regatta - Dec 2004
[..] It is amazing to put everything into a single stroke.
So when I refer to full capacity I know it can relate to fatigue but on this occasion it was about maximum force.
It was as if I was producing peak force every stroke and what becomes noticeable is when I cam off the boil just slightly.
The difference between sitting on 1.34 and 1.35 is so fine and yet full capacity is in reality maybe not sustainable.
So what I was playing with was going to full capacity and then staying aware of how I was producing that force.
Relaxation and breathing were key and speed of movement was critical.
Once I started to find I began working hard it was like being presented with a choice. A fork in the road, with one option being to muscle it and try to work harder and harder or the other was to relax into it and trust that by keeping the intention of speed, relaxation and by using a strong breathing rhythm.
Well a couple of times I went down the path to option one and a few times down the path to option two. The result was clear to sustain the output and ease of drive was actually possible with the later.
So stepping up to full capacity is one element in the equation to optimal performance, the other being the ability to sustain the intensity.
It was a great little test and I will keep in mind during our preparation for the Worlds this year.
Another Favourite Blog Post from Drew Ginn.
A nice follow on from the previous post - One Stroke (29 Apr 2008) by Drew.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
One Stroke by Drew Ginn (29 Apr 2008)
One Stroke by Drew Ginn (29 Apr 2008):
[..] So what is it to be engaged fully in that one stroke?
After the fact it is difficult to isolate the experience of one stroke from the others. It is challenging to gain clarity on exactly one stroke because it happens in a flow of many more. [..] the dilemma is not just identifying the one, but ensuring it is pure and uncontaminated by the past one’s and future one’s.
The joy of performing the one stroke and immersing in it is challenged by the accumulated nature of the cyclic or repeated experiences. [..]
[W]hat is it to be fully engaged in one stroke[?] Knife-edge comes to mind. [..] the sense of being on a knife-edge is a great description. Less so from the perspective of balance or even match up, it has an essence that finds a cord within that is about effort, ease, maintenance and fatigue.
In fact to see it clearer I notice that the one, perfect one that I see is one of edgy contrast.
It is in a position of precarious, pointedness with a subtle oscillation between more than one element and more then one stroke including the past, present and future.
The elements involve self, team-mates, equipment, water, movement, harmony, mismatch, load, flow, hardness, relaxation, sequences, positions, focuses, emphasis, location, energy, strain, surge, comparison, connection, separation, isolation, effort, ease, understanding, knowledge, risk, exposure, confidence, doubt, poise, purpose, clarity, mistakes, errors, forgiveness, acceptance, love, joy, fear, ambiguity, tension, dynamics, leverage, struggle, difference, compliments, coaching, thoughts, distractions, intentions, actions, results, exchange, change, habits, confusion, satisfaction, uncertainty [..]
One stroke is so hard to describe, I know it when I feel it and some times I know it when I see it. Maybe the one is not perfect but we make it so because we like the idea of it being better than it really was.
The experience of rowing fascinates me because it has so many things it relates too. What I do know is that when I am engaged things change. The world looks and feels different and it gives me hope. Giving in to it, but not letting it get the better of you is critical. That may sound strange but there is something about being part of the boat, the movement, the other person, and the surroundings that makes so much sense of everything. [..]
Accessing the moment is not just about rowing, but I find it palatable to articular the action of rowing in a way that means something. One stroke at a time is a cliché and like one shot at a time it has meaning if you connect with it in some way. [..]
One stroke then is like every other stroke and they in turn they are like the days of life we live. It is just an experience how I choose to judge it or them is my choice. Years ago I watch a video the Searle Brothers made about their 1992 Olympic Games success in the coxed pair. In the video Greg spoke of a simple activity they did which involved calling out better or worse as a measure for each stroke they rowed. The idea I guess was to have more, better strokes and as such you develop accountability and improvement.
One stroke means different things and the reasons are varied. What enables full engagement in one stroke or in the moment is also varied. [..] One stroke unfolds and expands. Its meaning is huge and the vastness of experience is inspiring. Being at one in one is the art to rowing I suppose which really isn’t anything new, but repeated. So you see, like me, a cliché can mean so much which it does. [..]
Another Favourite Blog Post from Drew Ginn. A truly amazing description of rowing[/paddling] and as is usual with Drew's writings I can relate to in many ways.
I always find the strokes from the start to transition are the easiest to remember. Darren calls them the "glory strokes" and in many ways they set the boat up for the rest of the effort. Get it right and you are on the way. Get it wrong and you are on the back foot trying to recover. Can also remember some lift calls in various efforts over the years.
Love the description of 'Knife-Edge' and 'Edgy Contrast'. I often feel that when the effort is such that things seem to be edgy, that is where we need to be. Always wary of that that perfect feeling.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Getting the Glide Right by Drew Ginn (01 May 2007)
G get t THe g GLIDE R riGht by Drew Ginn (01 May 2007) ..
Warning: This may make no sense at all.........so be patient
"Get the glide right"
[..]
Rowing[/paddling] involves an in and out cycle that swings and sways. It also goes up and down, sometimes even side to side.
It’s cyclic and so with every revolution we have an opportunity to make the next one better.
With ever turn of the wheel we need to keep putting effort in which is natural, the flip side to this is in the moments of glide, recovery, reflection, pose, readiness, preparing and spaciousness.
It’s a time when you can decide what’s next and how you’re going to make the next cycle better. You get the chance to decide what you need and want?
So you see the glide is critical for achieving your best.
Call it what you want. You decide what to call it; you decide what’s next.
To me the glide is an opportunity to find that perfection, to create the links between the drive, the work and the effort.
The glide is the link between each stroke, every session, all the races; each and every one counts and needs to be accounted for.
It is through the glide that they become more than the parts.
The sum is in total an accumulation of much more than just effort; it is more because we allow our effort to be rewarded by allowing it to happen.
Trust the glide and make more of rowing[/[paddling] that just effort and grunt. [..]
Another Favourite Blog Post from Drew Ginn.
In dragon boating we have the Hit and Glide, so when I read this I definitely understood what Drew was saying, not only about moving a boat, but also life in general. Probably one of the best pieces of writing on rowing[/paddling] I have come across (there a few more Drew Ginn articles which are just as good and they will follow at some stage).
Pacific Dragons - AusDBF 2009 National Dragon Boat Championships - Kawana - 23 April 2009
Pacific Dragons - AusDBF 2009 National Dragon Boat Championships - Kawana - 23 April 2009
Pacific Dragons - AusDBF 2009 National Dragon Boat Championships - Kawana - 23 April 2009
Warning: This may make no sense at all.........so be patient
"Get the glide right"
[..]
Rowing[/paddling] involves an in and out cycle that swings and sways. It also goes up and down, sometimes even side to side.
It’s cyclic and so with every revolution we have an opportunity to make the next one better.
With ever turn of the wheel we need to keep putting effort in which is natural, the flip side to this is in the moments of glide, recovery, reflection, pose, readiness, preparing and spaciousness.
It’s a time when you can decide what’s next and how you’re going to make the next cycle better. You get the chance to decide what you need and want?
So you see the glide is critical for achieving your best.
Call it what you want. You decide what to call it; you decide what’s next.
To me the glide is an opportunity to find that perfection, to create the links between the drive, the work and the effort.
The glide is the link between each stroke, every session, all the races; each and every one counts and needs to be accounted for.
It is through the glide that they become more than the parts.
The sum is in total an accumulation of much more than just effort; it is more because we allow our effort to be rewarded by allowing it to happen.
Trust the glide and make more of rowing[/[paddling] that just effort and grunt. [..]
Another Favourite Blog Post from Drew Ginn.
In dragon boating we have the Hit and Glide, so when I read this I definitely understood what Drew was saying, not only about moving a boat, but also life in general. Probably one of the best pieces of writing on rowing[/paddling] I have come across (there a few more Drew Ginn articles which are just as good and they will follow at some stage).
Saturday, August 28, 2010
A Simple Paradigm - Time For Adaptation by Vern Gambetta
A Simple Paradigm - Time For Adaptation by Vern Gambetta (05 April 2010)
When you think about going for the quick fix, just quickly run this simple paradigm through your head. It all relates to time for adaptation. Nothing complicated. Don’t over think this. This is a just a general guideline, a reminder, that the process of adaption to training takes time.
Something worth remembering when starting out on a new activity. Also particularly worth remembering when having a voluntary break (between campaigns, etc) or forced break (injury say) from your activity.
When you think about going for the quick fix, just quickly run this simple paradigm through your head. It all relates to time for adaptation. Nothing complicated. Don’t over think this. This is a just a general guideline, a reminder, that the process of adaption to training takes time.
- Flexibility improves day to day
- Strength can be improved from week to week
- Speed (A fine motor quality) improves from month to month
- Work Capacity improves from year to year
- You can lose flexibility from day to day
- You can lose strength week to week
- Speed declines month to month
- Work Capacity declines year to year.
Something worth remembering when starting out on a new activity. Also particularly worth remembering when having a voluntary break (between campaigns, etc) or forced break (injury say) from your activity.
Monday, August 23, 2010
What's in a race plan? by Drew Ginn
What's in a race plan? by Drew Ginn (Wed 31 Oct 2007)
[..] What I have come to realise is that we only really use a race plan as a framework, it is like our template to bring us together in the way we will approach the racing we do.
What we don't do is put our confidence in our race plan to be the defining element of our rowing.
I have always felt that getting a good start was important because it sets up the race. This does not mean that it is the only thing but it is easier to control things from in front.
When it's close after 500m the thing that is wonderful about that is that it creates an intensity about the middle stages of the race.
Competitive instinct can bring our the best and worst in everyone.
So then a race plan is the thread that runs through our performance.
It's a framework the enables a crew to understand what's required and where.
We use a plan that we believe gets us in to a position that we can use as a platform.
The idea of it being a thread which you have key moments to hang, place, perform based on your decisions the rowing that will bring it all to life.
Every stage can result in an expanded thread which stands out in the field and like wise each of the key moment can result in a contraction that is a narrowing of options and is visible as a performance begins to fade and become lost back in the field.
We have in our minds key point of a race where certain things can take place, certain opportunities realised.
The race plan should keep your options open which is exciting and creates anticipation and is a great source of energy.
On the other hand a poorly conceived, ill considered and unrealistic plan can have an effect in opposition to every athletes desires. [..]
Another favourite blog post from Drew Ginn. Seems related to yesterdays post on Pacing Strategy.
M2- Final at Rowing World Championships, Munich, 01/09/07
[..] What I have come to realise is that we only really use a race plan as a framework, it is like our template to bring us together in the way we will approach the racing we do.
What we don't do is put our confidence in our race plan to be the defining element of our rowing.
I have always felt that getting a good start was important because it sets up the race. This does not mean that it is the only thing but it is easier to control things from in front.
When it's close after 500m the thing that is wonderful about that is that it creates an intensity about the middle stages of the race.
Competitive instinct can bring our the best and worst in everyone.
So then a race plan is the thread that runs through our performance.
It's a framework the enables a crew to understand what's required and where.
We use a plan that we believe gets us in to a position that we can use as a platform.
The idea of it being a thread which you have key moments to hang, place, perform based on your decisions the rowing that will bring it all to life.
Every stage can result in an expanded thread which stands out in the field and like wise each of the key moment can result in a contraction that is a narrowing of options and is visible as a performance begins to fade and become lost back in the field.
We have in our minds key point of a race where certain things can take place, certain opportunities realised.
The race plan should keep your options open which is exciting and creates anticipation and is a great source of energy.
On the other hand a poorly conceived, ill considered and unrealistic plan can have an effect in opposition to every athletes desires. [..]
Another favourite blog post from Drew Ginn. Seems related to yesterdays post on Pacing Strategy.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Macau 2010: Intention and Reflection
Intention & Reflection by Drew Ginn (7 May 2007)
What does it mean to have conscious intent?
To be fully engaged and intentionally focused is a critical ingredient for improving performance.
Maintaining a clear focus when everything becomes hazy with fatigue and stress is certainly some thing I practice.
It is something that I work on while engaged in any activity, in fact that is the greatest part you can practice it any time.
Being clear about what, how and why creates a purposeful performance and intention is that capacity to transfer thought in to action.
It is easy to switch off and go through the motions, but to stay present and aware is a challenge, at least initially.
That's why I love training by myself sometimes, it enables me to practice finding that clarity and to apply thought or mental image to action.
Reflection is important to ensure that what you intent is realised and it is upon reflection that insights are gained about how to improve each session, each stroke, each race and each season.
Clear intention is like a laser. It penetrates through the power of unity. A diffused athlete is more likely to under perform than an athlete who is clear, driven and focused.
Another blog post that I keep coming back to read.
Now that we are back from Macau, it is a good time to reflect on what was achieved and how it was done ..
CCWC Mixed 500m Final (Video Screen) - Pacific Dragons/Lane 2 - Macau/China- Sat 31 Jul 2010
Premier Mixed 500m Final - Macau/China - Sat 31 Jul 2010
CCWC Mixed 500m Final - Pacific Dragons - Macau/China- Sat 31 Jul 2010
Premier Mixed 500m Medal Presentation - Pacific Dragons/World Champions - Sun 01 Aug 2010
Pacific Dragons Premier Mixed 500m Team - Back (l-r) Geoff Eldridge, Norman Joe, Rachel Mosen, Kerry Davenport, Darren Ma, Todd Skeels, Craig Stewart, Justin Spake, Michal Hrcka, Suzy Kong, Annett Happich, Mark Hall, Lisa Green, Stuart Young, Toby Wilson, Graeme Bacon Front (l-r) Michelle Ng, Helen Papin, Christian Happich, Matt Spies, Michelle Hone, Nicola Frowen, Di Morgan, Paul Smith, Christophe Pistoni, Julia Ryall, Kathaleen Burrows - Macau/China - Sun 01 Aug 2010
What does it mean to have conscious intent?
To be fully engaged and intentionally focused is a critical ingredient for improving performance.
Maintaining a clear focus when everything becomes hazy with fatigue and stress is certainly some thing I practice.
It is something that I work on while engaged in any activity, in fact that is the greatest part you can practice it any time.
Being clear about what, how and why creates a purposeful performance and intention is that capacity to transfer thought in to action.
It is easy to switch off and go through the motions, but to stay present and aware is a challenge, at least initially.
That's why I love training by myself sometimes, it enables me to practice finding that clarity and to apply thought or mental image to action.
Reflection is important to ensure that what you intent is realised and it is upon reflection that insights are gained about how to improve each session, each stroke, each race and each season.
Clear intention is like a laser. It penetrates through the power of unity. A diffused athlete is more likely to under perform than an athlete who is clear, driven and focused.
Another blog post that I keep coming back to read.
Now that we are back from Macau, it is a good time to reflect on what was achieved and how it was done ..
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Thoughts on Being the Best by Vernon Gambetta (11 Nov 2008)
Thoughts on Being the Best by Coach Vernon Gambetta (11 Nov 2008).
Control what you can, not what you can’t! Be Smart. Work on something specific each day. Have a plan! Train with a purpose. Improvement is incremental. Small steps lead to big steps.
Pressure - Pressure is what you make it! Use the pressure to make you better, internalize it and use it as a positive influence.
Belief – Think you are the best and you are on your way. Confidence, believe in yourself, your preparation and your support system.
Routine – Great athletes doing the same thing, the same way, at the same time each day. Regularity. You can set a clock by the great ones.
Work - Every one works. The great ones work smarter. Analyze your strengths and weaknesses objectively. Minimize your weaknesses and optimize your strengths. Bring your weaknesses up to the level of your strengths.
Choices - It is always about choices. Make the choice to be the best. Life is constantly about choices.
Improvement - Michael Jordan, as good as he was, got better every year he played! He would pick one aspect of his game each off-season and set out to improve that aspect with relentless determination.
Perfection - The perfect game has yet to be played, in fact it will probably never be played. The perfect race has yet to be run. That does not mean we should not strive for perfection, it does mean that that we should strive for perfection but not be frustrated when we do not achieve perfection. Take chances, risk, try a new move in a game, take on a defender. Make things happen!
Mental Toughness - Physical preparation gives mental strength. Push yourself, do not give in. Go the extra step and the extra mile.
Effort - Performance may vary, but effort is a constant. You have control over your effort. Make it high energy, high level and purposeful. Consistent effort will level out the peaks and valleys in performance.
Goals - It is about goal achievement not goal setting. Anyone can set goals, but few can achieve goals! Dreams are private. Goals are public. Share them. Find people to support you to achieve your goals. Be specific both in setting your goals and the means to achievement. Constantly visualize yourself achieving your goals!
Focus - No rabbit ears! Program your inner voice to respond only to what you tell it. Only listen to your positive self-talk. Filter out the negatives.
Evaluation - Self-assessment is a constant for those who chose to be great. Be objective. Look at the positives and the negatives. It is an ongoing process. Evaluation and self-assessment are a series of stepping-stones necessary to climb the staircase of success.
Be yourself and true to yourself. You are great and will get better!
A copy of a blog post that I always come back to. Learnt a lot from this and all of Vern's writing.
Geoff an Jim Farintosh Canadian Senior Mixed/Open Coach and Sweep - Racice Prague - Fri 29 Aug 2009
Always take the time to say hello to Jim Farintosh from Toronto. First met him at Sydney 2007 when he coached and swept the Canadian Senior Open and Mixed Teams. Next said hello in Penang in Aug 2008 where he coached and swept the Toronto area "Mayfair Predators". Decided in Prague to finally get a photo with him after the Senior Open's 200m medal presentation. A top coach and a person who is obviously highly regarded by his peers.
Control what you can, not what you can’t! Be Smart. Work on something specific each day. Have a plan! Train with a purpose. Improvement is incremental. Small steps lead to big steps.
Pressure - Pressure is what you make it! Use the pressure to make you better, internalize it and use it as a positive influence.
Belief – Think you are the best and you are on your way. Confidence, believe in yourself, your preparation and your support system.
Routine – Great athletes doing the same thing, the same way, at the same time each day. Regularity. You can set a clock by the great ones.
Work - Every one works. The great ones work smarter. Analyze your strengths and weaknesses objectively. Minimize your weaknesses and optimize your strengths. Bring your weaknesses up to the level of your strengths.
Choices - It is always about choices. Make the choice to be the best. Life is constantly about choices.
Improvement - Michael Jordan, as good as he was, got better every year he played! He would pick one aspect of his game each off-season and set out to improve that aspect with relentless determination.
Perfection - The perfect game has yet to be played, in fact it will probably never be played. The perfect race has yet to be run. That does not mean we should not strive for perfection, it does mean that that we should strive for perfection but not be frustrated when we do not achieve perfection. Take chances, risk, try a new move in a game, take on a defender. Make things happen!
Mental Toughness - Physical preparation gives mental strength. Push yourself, do not give in. Go the extra step and the extra mile.
Effort - Performance may vary, but effort is a constant. You have control over your effort. Make it high energy, high level and purposeful. Consistent effort will level out the peaks and valleys in performance.
Goals - It is about goal achievement not goal setting. Anyone can set goals, but few can achieve goals! Dreams are private. Goals are public. Share them. Find people to support you to achieve your goals. Be specific both in setting your goals and the means to achievement. Constantly visualize yourself achieving your goals!
Focus - No rabbit ears! Program your inner voice to respond only to what you tell it. Only listen to your positive self-talk. Filter out the negatives.
Evaluation - Self-assessment is a constant for those who chose to be great. Be objective. Look at the positives and the negatives. It is an ongoing process. Evaluation and self-assessment are a series of stepping-stones necessary to climb the staircase of success.
Be yourself and true to yourself. You are great and will get better!
A copy of a blog post that I always come back to. Learnt a lot from this and all of Vern's writing.
Always take the time to say hello to Jim Farintosh from Toronto. First met him at Sydney 2007 when he coached and swept the Canadian Senior Open and Mixed Teams. Next said hello in Penang in Aug 2008 where he coached and swept the Toronto area "Mayfair Predators". Decided in Prague to finally get a photo with him after the Senior Open's 200m medal presentation. A top coach and a person who is obviously highly regarded by his peers.
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