Form advice?

[ehart]

Hi,

Have been rowing about a year as part of my weight lifting routine - to get some cardio. Have watched some videos but know my form is not great. Complicated by bad knees, and I notice that when I try to "improve" my form (ie, longer drive stroke, more power per stroke) my knees act up. I would like to get someone to look at what I do. What's the best approach? Post a video here? Pay a coach (not opposed), and if so, how to find one?

Thanks for any advice!

p.s. 61 years old, 180 pounds, 6'2"

[Dangerscouse]

I'd recommend posting a video, but my initial instinct is to say don't try to increase your drive length if it's hurting your knees

[Sakly]

I'd recommend posting a video, but my initial instinct is to say don't try to increase your drive length if it's hurting your knees

I would fine tune this suggestion to "don't try to increase your drive length by bending your legs more". This puts your legs into a mechanical disadvantaged position, in which you are less powerful/stable and your knees are likely more loaded as they should. Proper catch with good length is created due to proper hip hinge.
Video from the side angle is best to see what you are doing.

[jamesg]

The basic style can be seen here:
https://www.concept2.com/indoor-rowers/ ... que-videos

As already noted, with dodgy knees, a reasonable approach might be to maintain the body swing but limit slide travel, so that the knee angle does not close too much. Always using the recovery sequence: at the finish, hands away, then swing, then slide: but only about 20cm.

If that's no good, no slide at all; fixed seat can be rowing too. Kayak or freestyle for when the water's warm.