Lago Azul Training Camp 2026: Medical Care in Challenging Conditions
In January and February 2026, Dr Andreas Aust accompanied the German men's national rowing team to its training camp in Lago Azul, Portugal, as the attending doctor. The visit was part of his long-standing medical work with the national team, but this time the circumstances were particularly challenging.
A storm changes the training routine
In the early morning of 28 January, a severe storm struck the training centre. According to the German Rowing Association, 14 sculling boats and six sweep boats were damaged. Infrastructure was also affected: electricity temporarily had to be supplied by a generator, and the internet connection failed. Most importantly, nobody was injured in the storm.
Emergency power, water shortages and persistent rain
For Dr Aust, providing medical care in these circumstances was a major challenge: only emergency power was available, there were repeated power cuts, and there was no water either. Persistent rain further complicated everyday life and the organisation of training.
High morale despite difficult conditions
Nevertheless, Dr Aust found the team in good spirits. Training continued as far as possible. Together with coaches and support staff, the athletes adapted to changing conditions. This team spirit remains a lasting impression of the training camp, which continued until 11 February 2026.
The coaching team organised replacement equipment and adapted the schedule. Some on-water training could continue with the remaining boats. The association's report of 29 January highlighted how the team stayed united despite difficult conditions and focused on the training sessions that were still possible.
Medical support at the training camp
Dr Aust was part of the on-site team as the attending doctor. Regularly accompanying training camps and competitions gives him a close understanding of the demands of elite sport and the relationship between training, recovery and medical care.
This experience also shapes his work in sports medicine in Freiburg. Whether you train ambitiously or simply want to move comfortably in everyday life, symptoms, previous activity levels and personal goals are considered together to plan the next steps individually.
The training camp illustrates the importance of medical support and teamwork, particularly in difficult conditions.
Find out more about the sports medical assessment at our practice.
A look back at the training camp, which ended on 11 February 2026. The personal impressions are Dr Aust's; information on damage to boats and replacement arrangements supplements the German Rowing Association's report of 29 January 2026.
