Hi, I’m Kara Dawson, founder of Yoga for Rowers.
Having spent over 15 years teaching yoga to rowers, alongside my own experience as a rower, cox and coach, I understand the physical and mental demands of the sport from every angle. I’m passionate about helping rowers build stronger, more mobile and resilient bodies, while developing the mind–body connection that can make a real difference on the water.
My background combines a degree in Psychology with 500-hour advanced yoga teacher training, specialist training in movement and anatomy, and additional professional development across yoga, breathwork and mindful movement. This integrated approach brings together the science of movement, an understanding of the mind and practical techniques to help you get more from your training.
Rowing is a repetitive sport that places considerable demands on the body. Yoga offers a complementary approach, introducing movement in different directions, developing stability and mobility, and improving body awareness. It can help you address imbalances, move more efficiently and build the physical foundations for a long, healthy rowing career.
My classes are specifically designed around the demands of rowing, helping you:
Build stability and mobility - develop a stronger, more mobile and resilient body that supports efficient movement on the water.
Explore non-linear movement - introduce rotation, lateral movement and varied movement patterns to balance the repetitive nature of the rowing stroke.
Improve body awareness - develop a deeper understanding of alignment, movement and muscular engagement to support your rowing technique.
Activate your glutes and posterior chain - develop strength and awareness through the glutes and back of the body, while improving hip-hinge mechanics to help support your back.
Develop mindfulness and breathwork - improve focus, manage stress and cultivate the mental resilience that can give you an edge both on and off the water.
Whether you’re a competitive athlete, a recreational rower or simply looking to feel better in your body, Yoga for Rowers offers practical, accessible tools to complement your training, support recovery and help you enjoy rowing for years to come.
My aim is to help you connect body and mind, move with greater freedom and bring that awareness into every stroke.
Move better. Breathe better. Row better.
I look forward to being part of your rowing journey!
Kara x