Lately I've been training on land more than on the water. Part of it has to do with an unexpectedly busy travel schedule as result of work. Some of it has to do with scheduling snafus—family commitments and the like.
In either case, when life pulls me away from my rowing routine, I have to remind myself that the world offers many playgrounds. There are trails to run, roads to walk, pools to dip into and yes, even gyms and yoga studios that welcome travelers.
Almost none of this holds the same appeal for me as rowing into the dawn on the San Francisco Bay, but all of it makes me a better rower and more important, a happier person.
As far as I'm concerned, any kind of movement is the easiest, most accessible therapy for the soul. So, get going.
If you need some good inspiration, pick up the book "What Makes Olga Run?" by Bruce Grierson. Full of great research on exercise physiology, Grierson's book tells the story of Olga Kotelka, a wise and humble 90-something track star who offers great insight into how to live a long, active and happy life. Olga's number one rule? Keep moving.
Sounds like good advice to me. See you out there.