Just curious at what rate other paddlers are rowing at. I am currently rowing a Fenn wing paddle on a OC Sprinter. During a typical training run my cadence is between 70-80 strokes per minute. In flatwater on this plastic yak my avg speed is about 5 mph. I would love to hear from other paddlers.

Thanks

Can you guys point me where to get a metronome?  That can surely help set and keep the pace while training.

I didn't know what a metronome was.  Here is what Wikipedia says:

"A metronome is any device that produces a regulated audible and/or visual pulse, usually used to establish a steady beat, or tempo, measured in beats-per-minute (BPM) for the performance of musical compositions. It is an invaluable practice tool for musicians that goes back hundreds of years.

Musicians use metronomes when they practice in order to maintain an established tempo; by adjusting the metronome, facility is achieved at varying tempi. Even in pieces that do not require strict time (see rubato), a metronome is used to give an indication of the general tempo intended by the composer. Many pieces provide a tempo indication at the top of the manuscript."

How do you use one while paddling and to what end?

I suppose using a stroke meter or a metronome for that purpose only suits those paddling in flat or calm waters.  Having a steady stroke rate in downwind conditions don't apply as you're pretty much surfing.

I also started using this with our dragonboat team. Helps build efficiency in every stroke and focus on technique. In surfski or k1, I get to paddle at a constant rate while trying to keep a steady speed and relaxing when I can to have my heart rate controlled too.  Again, this only applies on flat or calm waters.

I've used a waterproof metronome (meant for swimming) when paddling.  I lost it recently, but it worked great when doing K1 workouts on flatwater.  It worked especially well for slow cadences, for instance doing 60 spm technique work.  Without the metronome I'd almost certainly pick my cadence up too high.   It is called TempoTrainer by Finis. 

Rob,

Just curious what your flatwater speed is with that cadence.

Thanks

When I was starting out I was really worried about my stroke rate because it seemed like mine was much slower than everyone else's and I figured I was doing something wrong.  5 years later my stroke rate is still slower than the guys I paddle with and I get compliments on how smooth I look (at least to them!).

I think stroke rate should be about the last thing you worry about, either fast or slow.  Good technique, with full rotation, forward catch, and a good glide and your stroke rate will be perfect for whatever conditions you are paddling in.  My rate varies all over the place depending on the situation, even in flat water.  Forget about it!

I have used the metronome as a coaching aid. Due to the lack of having a coach when I am on the water. I don't really have a set schedule for paddling.

The metronome can be used a number of ways, one is to get the stroke rate up, and the other is maintain a certain rate.

One workout is to keep a higher than "my" normal stroke rate over a certain distance. i.e. 2 kms @ 90. This forces me to stay at this rate without having my coach do it.

Another is set it at a slower rate say 60 and use power strokes. Full rotation and full leg push / pull. When used with a Garmin you can actually see what works and what doesn't in real time.

I find it a very handy training tool.

Darrell