Resistance?

[Mike62]

Hi, I've been using gym equipment like ellipticals and vertical steppers for years but I'm new to rowers. I tried the Concept2 rower recently at a retailer as I need a cardio machine for home use and my ceiling height is very low.

I have to say I was quite disappointed as even on maximum resistance the Concept2 rower was far too easy. After 5 mins my legs weren't feeling anything at all and any resistance seemed to be only upper body -arms, shoulders, lats.

I'm not an athlete, I'm a 60 year old guy in reasonable shape. I just can't see what the fuss is all about with any of these rowers. They just don't seem to provide the exercise I need compared to a vertical stepper or even an elliptical cross trainer.

[Joebasscat]

Welcome to the forum Mike. Much to learn about proper technique. Have a look on YouTube for proper rowing technique. I assure you with proper form your legs can get a wonderful workout at 20 SPM or less in 5 minute intervals. Did you happen to notice what pace you were rowing at and your stokes per minute on your test drive?

But hey it’s possible rowing won’t be your jam.

[JaapvanE]

I have to say I was quite disappointed as even on maximum resistance the Concept2 rower was far too easy. After 5 mins my legs weren't feeling anything at all and any resistance seemed to be only upper body -arms, shoulders, lats.

The lever on the side isn't for resistance. If you want more resistance, row faster. Rowers are unique in the sense that they provide unlimited resistance based on flywheel speed. The harder you pull, the more the machine will resist. So a slow stroke will only give you a 200N resistance, but the fast guys here easily pull 1000N.

And indeed, technique does matter: a heavily frontloaded stroke (i.e. pulling with arms and legs at the same time) will hurt (= injure) your arms before the legs will become tired. General rule is to either have the arms or knees bent, but never both.

But it is acquired taste that is not for everybody.

[Dangerscouse]

It sounds like you're pulling not pushing, and probably 'shooting the slide' which are common mistakes for newbies.

Imagine you're jumping horizontally, and not just trying to pull as hard as you can.

For a seemingly simple exercise it is surprisingly technical, and if you row correctly, and fast enough, I can assure your legs will know all about it.

[p_b82]

It's also worth noting to the sheer effort - power - that's being put in, but also time.

"tootling" along at 80w for 5 mins is going to be a very different experience to 1.5hrs at the same pace. (not saying you were rowing that slowly, more that it's a very different total effort and thus workout.)

Maybe worth mentioning too, the increase in power needed to increase pace is quite significant:
2:45 pace = 78W
2:30 = 104W
2:15 = 142W
2:00 = 203W

Which was why your pace was asked before

And just because it hasn't been mentioned, the lever on the side changes the drag factor - or the rate that the flywheel slows down - there's lots and lots of material out there about what is the "best" setting, but a max drag factor is rarely recommended.

[mitchel674]

Welcome to the forum. If you don't feel it in your legs, you're not doing it right. Take some time to learn proper rowing technique before you give up on the rowerg.

As asked before, what was your pace on your 5 minute effort?