Winter Training Boredom: How to Stay Motivated Through the Cold Months

Winter can be a tough season for rowers. The excitement of the summer race season is over, daylight is in short supply, and the cold often keeps athletes off the water and inside the gym. The monotony of indoor rowing and strength training sessions can make it feel like the season is dragging on endlessly. But winter is also a crucial time to build strength, refine technique, and prepare mentally for the challenges ahead. So, how do rowers fight off the boredom and stay engaged during those long, cold months? 

Join Club Training Sessions 

Many rowing clubs organize indoor training sessions during the winter, whether in person or virtually. Concept2® erg workouts, circuit training, or even cross-training sessions with your crewmates can help maintain the team atmosphere. By joining these sessions, you stay accountable, push yourself harder, and enjoy the camaraderie that rowing with others brings. If your club doesn't have regular sessions, consider organizing one with a few teammates! 

Use Virtual Platforms & Apps

If in-person training is not feasible, virtual platforms like Zoom and Erg compatible apps, can help keep the community spirit alive. Teammates can erg together virtually on Concept2’s ErgData® app Real Time Loop feature.  You can even share workouts on the ErgData app so everyone can do the same, exact workout. Schedule regular group video sessions where teammates can train together, whether that's rowing on ergs, doing strength exercises, or stretching. Knowing that others are rowing alongside you, even virtually, can make a solo workout feel less daunting and much more motivating. 

Participate in Club Challenges 

Many rowing clubs host winter training challenges to keep members engaged and motivated, but you can also take part in global events like Concept2 challenges. These challenges, such as the Holiday Challenge or the January Virtual Team Challenge, offer a fun way to stay active while competing against athletes from around the world. Clubs and athletes can and do use the Concept2 Challenge Calendar to find out about current or upcoming challenges. Consider sharing your progress with your club or setting up a leaderboard to keep the competitive spirit alive. These challenges offer extra motivation and a way to stay connected to the sport, even when you can’t be on the water. 

Socialize Beyond Training 

The social aspect of rowing is a big part of what makes the sport enjoyable. Even though winter may limit face-to-face interactions, it doesn’t mean the social connection has to fade. Organize virtual or in person catch-ups or even educational sessions where members can discuss technique or rowing strategy. Keeping those friendships strong will not only make training more fun but also deepen your commitment to the club. 

Change Your Training Environment 

Winter training doesn't have to be limited to the erg or gym. When outdoor rowing isn’t an option, changing up your indoor environment can still help as repeating the same workout over and over can lead to burnout.  Set up your erg in a new spot with a different view or try listening to audiobooks or podcasts to engage your mind while you train. Also try mixing up your sessions to keep things fresh. Rotate between erg, strength training, mobility exercises, and even cross-training like cycling, swimming, skiing or running. Not only does this keep things interesting, but it also targets different muscle groups and helps prevent overuse injuries. 

With the right approach, you can emerge from winter stronger, more focused, and ready to hit the water with renewed energy. Training through the winter is tough for everyone, so make it a point to support your fellow rowers. Check in with teammates regularly, offer words of encouragement, and celebrate small victories together. Whether it’s a text, a group chat, or cheering each other on via social media, fostering that sense of community can help keep motivation high for everyone.