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Intha People , Legrowers of Inle Lake

Ko Soe Soe

Tour Guide, Mandalay, Myanmar

| 2 mins read

Want to become a one legged rower like the Intha men on the lake? Here we give the secret low down on how you too can develop a skill your friends will envy you for.

Although the technique is not difficult , it requires some practice sessions before launching into the real thing. Before you trying this out on a boat you may want to get in an hour or two of secret practice in your hotel bedroom. Borrow a broomstick from housekeeping , jump up on the bed , or grab the towel rail in the bathroo and launch into practice. After perfecting the technique on dry land ( or dry bed ) , you will be ready to take on the professionals - if you can talk them into lending you their boat!

( 1 ) Stand at the back of the boat , on the bed , or grab the towel rail in your bathroom.

( 2 ) Take a firm hold of the broomstick with your right or left hand ( depending on personal preference )

( 3 ) Bend your body forward then push the oar forward with the calf and knee.

( 4 ) Hook your foot over the oar and pull the oar backward, with your foot.

( 5 ) Repeat the process indefinitely until you have grasped the basic technique. You are now ready to try for the real thing.

( 6 ) You become a real rower in action on Inle Lake.

Enjoy your stay in Inle lake