Rowing Erg

Drive with the legs, then pull the handle to the chest; return with control.

Rowing Erg, illustrated

How to do it

Setup

Feet strapped, shins vertical at the catch, grip light, back long.

Steps

  1. Drive with the LEGS first.
  2. Swing the back, then pull the handle to the lower ribs.
  3. Return arms-body-legs, sliding forward with control.

Common mistakes

Pulling with the arms first: the order is legs, body, arms; reversed it wastes the stroke. Shooting the seat: legs and handle move TOGETHER. Death-gripping the handle: hooked fingers, loose wrists.

Breathing

Exhale on the drive, inhale on the slide.