Speedcoach speed, time and stroke rate counter

Maker Nielsen - Kellerman Co

Date1990s

Object number00037241

NameSpeed counter

MediumPlastic, metal, electronic componentry

DimensionsOverall: 60 x 87 x 24 mm, 0.1 kg

ClassificationsToys, games and souvenirs

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Nielsen Kellerman Australia Pty Ltd

Terms

Marcus Hook

DescriptionThe SpeedCoach™ calculates speed, time and stroke rate providing instant feedback for the sculler and a memory system that allows them to review their performance.HistoryFitness and training have always played an important part in rowing. The early training manuals concentrated on diet, posture and descriptions of the correct stroking method. Rowing technology remained fairly primitive until the 1950s when Professor Frank Cotton at the University of Sydney invented the ergometer enabling the coach to measure a rowers stroke technique and power. The development of computer technology in the 1980s and 1990s led to the sophisticated electronic gear that dominates rowing today.SignificanceThe SpeedCoach™ demonstrates one of the major technological developments in modern rowing. All contemporary rowing shells are now equipped with sophisticated examples of this technology.