Announcement
Joe Edwards is well known for his prowess in J-boat, whitewater racing C-1, outrigger or any form of canoe craft. Over the years countless admires, eager to emulate his success, have queried him about his training techniques but Joe would reveal nothing. Recently, after a long surfing/paddling session a few folks got together to say farewell to a club member relocating to the west coast at Oceanview Pier Pub. As Joe relaxed and the more beer he consumed, his guard began to drop. His tablemates listened with nervous anticipation as he revealed his most sacred training secret. A secret he said he’d learned from a renowned Olympian.
“Every spring, I begin by standing on a comfortable surface, where I have plenty of room at each side. With a 5-lb potato sack in each hand, I extend my arms straight out from my sides and hold them there as long as I can. I try to reach a full minute, and then relax. Each day I find that I can hold this position for just a bit longer. After a couple of weeks, I move up to 10-lb potato sacks. Then I try 50-lb potato sacks and then I eventually try to get to where I can lift a 100-lb potato sack in each hand and hold my arms straight for more than a full minute. I was at this point last year when my buddy Charlie, suggested I put a potato in each sack. This has taken my fitness level to new heights and when I can manage holding my arms straight for more than a full minute then I’ll know I’m ready for the Marathon Nationals. "
On a more serious note, anyone interested in going to the USCA Marathon Nationals in Warren PA August 12-16, entries must be sent out by this Saturday. Leza and I are going even though we aren't quite up to a full minute with a potato in each sack yet.
Rusty McLain
757-465-1317 home
757-761-4737 cell
canoe_dude@cox.net
