Adaptive Rowing Adaptive Rowing is for anyone who has a physical, sensory or learning impairment, or other movement challenges, temporary or long-term. Adaptive indoor rowing is possible using specially designed equipment, an adapted rowing stroke or different methods of communication. When it comes to equipment, there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution, however there are a range of seating systems, additional tools and technologies available to suit different requirements. Examples of these adaptations include:Upright SeatsSo called ‘complementary and postural seats’ provide additional support where required (see image below).Wheelchair FramesFrames such as the Adapt2Row allow wheelchair uses who cannot use or transfer onto a rowing machine seat, to take part.Hand GripsProvide improved grip for those with limited hand function.Velcro StrapsProvide increased support across chest, hips and legs.Software Tools for those with a Visual ImpairmentErgChatter – PC software for the Concept2 rowing machine to announce performance data at regular intervals. ErgBuddy – App for the Concept2 rowing machine to allow information to be conveyed onto a larger screen such as an iPad.Akton Gel PaddingPrevent pressure sores.Programming StickAllow monitors to be programmed from a distance.Examples of these adaptations include:: Upright Seats So called ‘complementary and postural seats’ provide additional support where required (see image below). Examples of these adaptations include:: Wheelchair Frames Frames such as the Adapt2Row allow wheelchair uses who cannot use or transfer onto a rowing machine seat, to take part. Examples of these adaptations include:: Hand Grips Provide improved grip for those with limited hand function. Examples of these adaptations include:: Velcro Straps Provide increased support across chest, hips and legs. Examples of these adaptations include:: Software Tools for those with a Visual Impairment ErgChatter – PC software for the Concept2 rowing machine to announce performance data at regular intervals. ErgBuddy – App for the Concept2 rowing machine to allow information to be conveyed onto a larger screen such as an iPad. Examples of these adaptations include:: Akton Gel Padding Prevent pressure sores. Examples of these adaptations include:: Programming Stick Allow monitors to be programmed from a distance. Key Manufacturers and Suppliers of this Equipment Include: Concept2 Oarsport Active Hands Indoor Sport Services Adaptive Rowing Competitions Indoor rowing competitions take place across the country every year, culminating in the British Rowing Indoor Championships (BRIC) in December. These events are open to all with many having specific Adaptive events. To compete in Adaptive events you will need to be classified by British Rowing. Further information on this process is available here. Want to Know More? For further information on classification, which equipment may work best for you or other aspects of Adaptive Rowing (both indoor and on-water), please contact our Adaptive Rowing Team at adaptive@britishrowing.org.
