Common Mistakes You’re Making on Your Rowing Machine

A rowing machine is both a terrific form of cardio and a full-body workout. Precor Home Fitness store has a great selection of rowing machines to choose from, and if you purchased one recently, then you will want to make sure you are using it correctly. Keep reading for more on the common mistakes you’re making on your rowing machine to avoid them and get the best results.

Not Using Your Lower Body

The first easy mistake when you are using a rowing machine is instantly pulling on the handle and primarily using your upper body. What some people don’t realize is that you should be generating more power with your legs than your arms on a rower. The simple fix would be to focus on pushing your legs out instead of pulling primarily with your arms as you use a rowing machine.

Poor Posture

Many are also guilty of having poor posture on a rowing machine, which can result in a serious injury. Try to sit up straight on the machine and avoid bending your back. If this is a difficult adjustment to make, then you might need to make some changes with the rowing machine’s settings.

Placing Your Feet Incorrectly

One adjustment you might have to make while you are using a rowing machine is with your foot placement. Most machines come with a strap to hold your feet in place, but you need to make sure that this strap is over the middle of your foot to generate the most power possible.

Forgetting To Breathe

Breathing is an aspect of exercise that many people tend to neglect, but it’s imperative that you pay attention to it. On a rowing machine, you will want to sync up your breathing with your movements. When you move back on a rowing machine, you should be exhaling, and as you return to the front, inhale.

Using Too Much Resistance

Adding too much resistance or completely neglecting to set the damper lever is another common mistake you’re probably making on your rowing machine, and it could be doing more harm than good. Try to start off with a lower damper setting, somewhere between three and five, so you can work on perfecting your form and be consistent throughout your workout.