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A workout on a rowing machine is a great way to improve upper body strength, get an all-round workout, and burn calories without creating harmful impact on your joints. While you’re spending time on this workout, though, do it the right way: read on to find out more about how to improve your rowing machine technique.

Learn to resist

Getting the resistance setting on your rowing machine just right is the first step to having a rewarding rowing machine workout. The ideal resistance setting will let you row in a style that imitates rowing on a river – fast and smoothly, with the ability to practice good technique. If your muscles are burning too hard the day after a rowing machine workout, consider reducing the settings to increase your fitness faster.

Posture

Get your posture right for a better workout: that means moving your back and pelvis back and forth at the same time, and leaning only slightly back and forward. Move from your hip joints, don’t ever round your back, and make sure that you keep your elbows close to your body. The most important thing to remember is that you need to keep your movements flowing.

The routine

Move through a set of positions to keep your technique at its best and optimise your rowing machine experience. To start, pull forward – your knees will be up, with your shins almost vertical, and your arms stretched out straight. Next, drive yourself backwards by straightening out your legs, leaning back slightly and gradually. Pull with your arms as you do this, allowing your elbows to move backward. The rowing handle should be at your abdomen as you finish, and you’re now ready to repeat your perfect rowing machine technique again.

Tags: keeping fit