If your goal is Injury Recovery

Unlike other whole bodied exercises, rowing utilizes the dynamic muscle groups (the arms and legs) through a full range of motion aiding circulation and assisting with joint lubrication. Rowing is a seated exercise, there is no static load on the joints due to the weight of the body.

Rowing is a smooth rhythmic exercise, because the connection between the oarsperson and the water is fluid, a paddle in water, there is no mechanical jerkiness or jarring, typical of conventional rowing machines, damaging the joints and back.

If you have suffered an injury, it is important to check with your doctor or physiotherapist before recommencing an exercise program, and follow their advice.

Only ever work through a pain-free range of movement. For example, if you have had a knee injury, this may mean working to quarter, or half -slide initially, and gradually building up to a full stroke. (see slide work drill). Using the WaterRower may enable you to continue to exercise, and aid injury recovery.

There are many causes of back pain, and it is important, as with any injury, to seek Medical Advice. For certain conditions, regular use of the WaterRower may help to reduce back pain. Rowing at a light/moderate intensity may help increase strength in your back, and improve posture. Pay particular attention to technique.

Warming up and Cooling Down are even more important after an injury. This will allow the body to adjust slowly to the exercise and then remove any waste products built up in the muscle during the workout.

Being injured can be a frustrating time, and it may be tempting to rush back into your previous exercise program as soon as you feel able. Wait! The injured site will still be weak and vulnerable and will need a gradual build up back to full workout intensity over a period of time. Often, an injury feels fine whilst exercising, but is painful afterwards.

Once you have been given the OK by your physiotherapist/doctor, we recommend that you start with 5 minutes only on the WaterRower, at a light pace. The following workout can be increased in duration only if there has been no adverse reaction to the first session. Once you can complete 15 minutes at light intensity and remain pain free, then you may gradually start increasing the intensity.