Research shows that when we have more detail and specificity in our training environment, we are better able to transfer our training into real world environments. Working to capacity on a rowing machine is one thing, doing so whilst being immersed in the sights and sounds of real courses, complete with responsive opponents who are positioned with race accuracy and flexible strategic responses, gives athletes a true-to-life training experience.
On a standard rowing machine, we simply don't have key information sources surrounding us – no course, no start and finish lines, no opponents with individual strategies and no influence from a crowd. On the water, these external cues influence the technique we employ, the stimuli we concentrate on, how confident we feel, how in control of our thoughts, feelings, and emotions we are, and how motivated we continue to be as the race progresses.
Our internal state is constantly responding to the relentless influx of lights, shapes, sounds, and pressures that are surrounding us at any given moment. By incorporating these external sights and sounds, Rowcave simulates real-world conditions, immersing athletes in incredibly detailed, life-like environments whilst they train and compete.
With immersion comes realism. With realism comes training efficacy. When we work on our technique in Rowcave, we improve our ability to embed motor skills that are contextually-relevant to rowing on the water. We can brainstorm psychological solutions to unhelpful emotions experienced as we see our opponents stretch ahead. We can test and tweak strategic options that better translate to real world race challenges on the water.
Research suggests that performers should be immersed in learning environments that challenge and stimulate, and this is what Rowcave does through its realistic training environments. Technically, strategically, physically, and mentally - Rowcave's immersive experience gives us a unique opportunity to practise and compete in an optimal training environment.
