UCanRow2’s Terry Smythe, an indoor and on-water rowing coach with nearly 20 years of experience, answers your questions about rowing technique, rower workouts, teaching rowing and training for rowing.
Q: I row at my gym, and the “erging” technique some people have is driving me batty! I don’t want to offend anyone and I’m no expert, but how do I tactfully correct their form so they don’t get hurt and I don’t have to watch it anymore?
A: This is the downside of the growth in indoor rowing’s popularity. People see rowing on TV or featured online, and want to try it themselves. The basics of rowing technique are pretty simple, but yes there is a trick to it. People who jump on the rowing machine at the gym often don’t know enough about proper rowing technique to get the most from the machine. As a total-body exercise, rowing is a fabulous way to make that slimmer, fitter you a reality. You’ll get there faster with the right technique.
If you see bad rowing happening, approach the facility’s staff and ask if they have certified indoor rowing instructors who can intervene. If they do not, as a facility member you should encourage them to get their group fitness instructors and personal trainers certified to teach rowing. Certified instructors are much better equipped to provide workouts that are safe, fun and effective, and it’s the best way for the facility to make sure it gets the most from its investment in rowing equipment.
There’s more information on our rowing certification here, and our latest listing of trainings is always available on our rowing certification calendar.
Got another sticky question you’d like our coach to tackle? We’re game! Post it below in the comments and we’ll get back to you.