Chris Baxter
Rowing
Rowing

Powerhouse Rowing Team John Smith & Chris Baxter

the dynamic men’s pair from the RMB National Rowing Squad, set to make waves at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games
Biogen athletes John Smith and Chris Baxter are the dynamic men’s pair from the RMB National Rowing Squad. With a blend of experience and youthful vigor, these athletes are strong contenders for a podium finish.
ATHLETE PROFILES

Follow @johnsmithgold and @baxterrow on Instagram for more updates on their journey.

Celebrated teamwork

John Smith, a South African rowing legend, is about to compete in his fourth Olympic Games. His journey into rowing began with a local rowing club, where the camaraderie and competitive spirit fueled his passion.

“I got into the competitive aspect through a local rowing club where the camaraderie and competitive spirit really inspired me to train harder and aim higher,” John reflects.

Chris Baxter, ten years John’s junior, is set to make his Olympic debut. A former Under-23 World Champion, Chris’s accolades include the under-23 world record in the men’s pair. His journey into rowing started in high school, driven by the thrill of racing and pushing his limits.

“I started rowing in high school, and the thrill of racing and pushing my limits motivated me to pursue it competitively,” says Chris.

The duo qualified for the 2024 Olympics by reaching the A-final in the men’s pair competition at the 2023 World Championships in Belgrade. Training under the guidance of National Head Coach Tiago Loureiro and Technical Performance Manager Grant Dodds, their regimen at the High Performance Centre of the University of Pretoria (Tuks) is rigorous and structured.

They narrowly missed a medal at the World Cup Rowing Regatta in Lucerne, finishing fourth by just 0.11 seconds. Their final preparations took place in France at the Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium, the Olympic course, showcasing their dedication and peak performance potential.

The team’s training week is intense, comprising six days with two to three sessions daily. This includes water sessions, ergometer sessions, weight training, and recovery activities. Their gym workouts focus on building overall strength, emphasizing legs, back, and core through heavy lifting and functional movements mimicking the rowing stroke.

“We do a mix of heavy lifting, such as squats and deadlifts, and functional movements that mimic the rowing stroke,” explains Chris.

Cardio cross-training like running or cycling is also a staple in their routine, enhancing endurance and overall fitness. Discipline and balance are crucial, ensuring they push their limits while allowing ample time for recovery and mental preparation.

Prioritising recovery

Optimal recovery for John and Chris involves proper nutrition, hydration, rest, and techniques like ice baths, massages, and compression gear. Biogen supplements play a crucial role, providing high-quality protein and essential nutrients.

“We engage in regular mobility work and foam rolling to keep our muscles supple and ready for the next session,” says John.

Their recovery strategy also includes stretching, flexibility work, sleep, and active recovery sessions like light rowing or swimming.

The duo maintains a well-balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats, emphasising fresh, whole foods. Biogen supplements, including protein powders, electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals, ensure they meet their nutritional needs, especially under high training intensity.

“Biogen supplements ensure we meet our nutritional needs, especially when training intensity is high,” explains Chris.

The assurance that Biogen products are Informed-Sport tested and WADA-compliant is essential for their peace of mind and integrity in the sport.

Mental preparation is as critical as physical training. John and Chris practice visualisation, mindfulness, goal-setting, positive self-talk, and meditation to build mental resilience and manage stress.

“Mental training is just as important as physical training,” affirms Chris.

Their mental fortitude helps them overcome challenges, balancing the physical demands and maintaining a structured schedule supported by a strong team.

Representing South Africa at the Olympics is a pinnacle achievement for both athletes. For Chris, it’s a tremendous honour and a lifelong dream. For John, it’s an opportunity to showcase years of hard work and inspire the next generation.

“It’s a tremendous honour and a lifelong dream to compete at the Olympics,” affirms Chris.

Supplement stack

John and Chris incorporate a range of Biogen supplements into their rigorous training and recovery routines to ensure peak performance and optimal recovery:

“We use Biogen Iso-Whey Premium Protein post-workout and products from the Biogen Platinum Range of vitamins to fill any nutritional gaps,” says John.

“Knowing these supplements are WADA-compliant is essential for our peace of mind and integrity in the sport.”

Shop Their Supplement Stack: