Rowing a fresh approach to fitness
The boomer generation is rapidly discovering a new and even safer way to pursue fitness – rowing. Hugely popular on the east coast and steeped in rich Ivy League tradition, the sport of rowing is encountering a surge of popularity in the United States, largely led by programs springing up throughout the west coast. Due to our favorable weather conditions, teams can row year-round in California, which leads to better performance.
“I row because it gives me the added dimension of competition, which fuels my motivation to stay fit, and I love the idea of working out outside and on the water, which makes me look forward to practice, versus going to a club,” says Kim Santella, a local medical sales professional who rows for Stockton’s Deep Water Masters Crew, “and I really enjoy the team camaraderie that I experience with rowing.”
University of Pacific’s rowing coach Eric Weir states, “Rowing is a great fitness regiment for all age groups, body types and levels of fitness because of its simplicity to get started. We have team members who work out daily to gain speed on the water, and we have just as many who view this as the most fun way to stay fit and meet new friends – there’s truly something for everyone if you’re interested in pursuing a fit lifestyle.” Coach Weir also oversees Pacific’s Deep Water Rowing community programs for Masters (adults) and Juniors (ages 11-18).
And according to local physical therapist Monty Merrill of Lodi Physical Therapy, “Rowing is an excellent fitness option for 30- to 70+ year-old athletes. In addition to the great cardiovascular benefits, rowing builds whole body muscular strength and power. This power element is important in maintaining muscle mass in the aging athlete.”
Recently Stockton played host to the Deep Water Dash Regatta, an annual event which attracted over a dozen Northern California Master, Collegiate and Junior teams to the downtown waterfront. Hundreds of spectators lined the new promenade to cheer their respective teams and family members. A unique Community Challenge Regatta is planned for July, in which local corporate and civic teams can experience rowing for a brief four-week period, capped with a fun series of sprint races at Stockton’s new downtown marina.
Pacific Deep Water Rowing Program
For more information call Coach Eric Weir, 209-471-8410
“I row because it gives me the added dimension of competition, which fuels my motivation to stay fit, and I love the idea of working out outside and on the water, which makes me look forward to practice, versus going to a club,” says Kim Santella, a local medical sales professional who rows for Stockton’s Deep Water Masters Crew, “and I really enjoy the team camaraderie that I experience with rowing.”
University of Pacific’s rowing coach Eric Weir states, “Rowing is a great fitness regiment for all age groups, body types and levels of fitness because of its simplicity to get started. We have team members who work out daily to gain speed on the water, and we have just as many who view this as the most fun way to stay fit and meet new friends – there’s truly something for everyone if you’re interested in pursuing a fit lifestyle.” Coach Weir also oversees Pacific’s Deep Water Rowing community programs for Masters (adults) and Juniors (ages 11-18).
And according to local physical therapist Monty Merrill of Lodi Physical Therapy, “Rowing is an excellent fitness option for 30- to 70+ year-old athletes. In addition to the great cardiovascular benefits, rowing builds whole body muscular strength and power. This power element is important in maintaining muscle mass in the aging athlete.”
Recently Stockton played host to the Deep Water Dash Regatta, an annual event which attracted over a dozen Northern California Master, Collegiate and Junior teams to the downtown waterfront. Hundreds of spectators lined the new promenade to cheer their respective teams and family members. A unique Community Challenge Regatta is planned for July, in which local corporate and civic teams can experience rowing for a brief four-week period, capped with a fun series of sprint races at Stockton’s new downtown marina.
Pacific Deep Water Rowing Program
For more information call Coach Eric Weir, 209-471-8410





