Do rowers need flexibility

Answer 1

Yes. Flexibility is a critical element in good rowing. Hamstring flexibility is key to setting forward body angle out of the finish without bending the knees too early and thus triggering a rush of the slide; flexibility in shoulders and back is key to getting good extension at the catch (without lunging or collapsing in an effort to get more length). Powerful legs and core strength are, of course, also very important, but flexibility is just as important in my view. This is especially true as rowers age and begin to lose length in the stroke, but it's important at any age.