The Rowing Machine Technique: Must-Know


It is not really about how high the resistance lever is, or how much effort you are putting into it. Not even about how many reps or sets you had, or how good you look when you get into the rowing machine. At the end of the day, it is always about having the right and perfect rowing machine technique to make you efficient and most importantly, avoid possible injuries. This article will serve as a guide to those who do not have yet a clear idea on what the best rowing machine technique is.

The correct rowing machine technique is about a smooth motion and driving, rather than pulling. There are three components of a perfect stroke: the finish, the slide, and the drive. These must be seamlessly performed to get the stroke right.

It starts with the rower leaning back slightly, with his or her legs flat, and the handle drawn to the body. The forearms should be horizontal and relaxed, and as they extend fully, the body rocks forward from the hips. The rower, then, would slide forward while maintaining arm and body position.

To start the drive, the legs should be pushed down as the body begins to lever back. Rower’s legs continue to push and the body levers back, while the arms remain straight. To finish the drive, the body stops levering back and the arms draw the handle past the knees then strongly to the body. The rower returns to the finish position with his or her legs flat and forearms horizontal.

This rowing machine technique may be difficult at the beginning, but will all be natural once the rower gets it right. And it’s never harmless to learn new things rather than not knowing what to do and being sorry in the end. It is not a good idea to assume that you know so much, especially when using such machines.

You will know that you are using the right rowing machine technique when you can feel you are working your muscles hard without suffering the next day. Perseverance, though, is the key!