The WOX guide to evaluating coxing recordings

Let’s face it, we all feel cringey when we listen to our own voice, and whilst it can be challenging to get over that to begin with, persevering can lead to great results. In fact, it is one of the most powerful tools to develop your authentic voice and increase your learning as a cox. Your voice is your main asset, honing it and training it will not only increase your coxing abilities, but will also increase your skillset outside of rowing. It is an invaluable opportunity to get the chance to think about how the nuances of your phrasing, language, tone, sound, and volume, impacts how what is being said is heard. 

Recording devices

For starters, you need a recording device. We asked WOX and our wider community for their recommendations, and compiled the below list of preferred methods to record sessions and races:

• A Dictaphone and waterproof case 
• CoxOrb Cobalt, Tungsten and Platinum 
• Phone in waterproof case (+/- microphone)
• GoPro
• Watch with recording feature (e.g. apple watch)
• TikTok or another Bluetooth microphone

Analysis methods

You may be a spreadsheet person, or you may be a journal person but either way recording your findings is key to measuring progress. If writing is your thing, then journaling could be an excellent place to start, I found I required a little more structure and so with some assistance from Olympic GB Medallist Henry Fieldman, I developed a list of headings to jot notes under. Having this template would help guide my listening and created a structured process. Order is also key, labelling each recording clearly and perhaps making notes about each one so you know what it involves, finding them to go back and re-listen is then much easier. 

Goals, success, and what you are listening for

What are you working on in the moment and how does it sound in comparison to previous recordings? When listening to a recording its vital to listen to what you like as well as would like to improve. What are the strengths of the recording in relation to the above?

Based on what you are working on in the moment, are you achieving progress with your goals?
Is there personality and authenticity to your recording?

Think about the scenario and situation when you are assessing your recording. For example, if you are listening to a training session, how well did you execute the technical focuses set out in the briefing, if you are listening to a race how well did you execute the plan? Were you adaptable? Did you read the situation in front of you?

One thing we all agree on is that sound is critical. Tone, volume management, range, power and intensity can all impact whether the calls you are making are landing. This is where video accompaniment can be beneficial to grow a fuller picture of how your calls were received. Other support may include GPS/speed data, rate, distance, time, and coach and athlete feedback.

Listening to the tactics and strategy within the recording can be important, as can timing of the call, and the number of times a call is made. Sometimes overuse of a call can venture into it becoming a ‘filler’ word or phrase. Make sure every word you use, every noise you make, is adding value.

So, to sum up:

• Know what you’re listening for: content, flair, authenticity
• Always point out your strengths when evaluating recordings, and listen for what you like
• Mark success based on your current goals
• Listen for sound, tone, volume, range, power and impact of calls, as well as the language you use
• Assess tactics, strategy, outing or race plan, adaptability, situation, timing of call, filler words, overuse, or too much talking
• Choosing a preferred strategy, whether that’s a spreadsheet, form, diary, template, or a digital log – whatever works best for you! 

You can find more from WOX on Instagram or YouTube @thewinningcox

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