Your Best Guide To Using A Rowing Machine

If you are thinking about getting or have got a rowing machine then you will want to know how to get your money out of this great piece of training equipment.  The first trick is to use it.  But there is more…

The process of using a rowing machine is definitely not difficult, but to the beginner it can often be a bit tricky. It is important to remember that as with any other type of exercise, using a rowing machine is going to take a bit of time and practice, so you should not become frustrated if you find yourself having troubles with it to begin with.

Getting Started

First of course you are going to have to go out and actually buy yourself a rowing machine, although you do have the option of going out to a gym and using the one there, if you would prefer to do that.

Then one of the first aspects you are going to need to take into consideration is adjustment and grip, as this is going to have a serious effect on your overall workout. One of the very first things you are going to have to do is adjust the foot straps, which will largely depend on your height and weight as to what position is most comfortable.

Make sure that your heel is resting comfortable against the base of the foot pedal and then secure the strap properly into place. It should not be either too loose or too tight, and you should be able to move your foot around comfortably without the strap moving about.

The next step involved in using a rowing machine is to understand the proper body mechanics that are going to be required here, and making proper use of them. The process involved in using a rowing machine involves more body mechanics than with almost any other piece of exercise equipment, and namely there are three main phases of rowing that you are going to have to be aware of here, and these are: the catch, the power stroke, and the recovery.

If you know nothing else about using a rowing machine, you will need to know these three phases. The catch phase position takes place when you come forward on the rower, when your knees are bent and against your chest. The power stroke is when you push yourself against the foot pedals and extend your legs while at the same time taking your hands up and moving them towards your abdominal area. Finally, the recovery phase is the one that involves straightening your arms and bending your knees, until your body has been brought forward again.

Using a rowing machine quickly becomes easier as you begin to get used to it, and so do not become frustrated while you try to get the hang of it at first, as it will come to you quickly.

One last tip on getting the most out of your rowing machine, don't over do it.  If you can't walk the next 3 days you might not get back on it.  So start slow and work your way up to 30 min or so every other day.  Good luck.