Is the SkiErg better for Short people?

[hundalharman01]

I have read many sources mention that tall people are able to derive more benefit from indoor rowing because they get a longer leg drive owing to their height.

Does the reverse apply to SkiErg? Do short people get more benefits from SkiErging because they can pull the cord lower and therefore get a longer pull than tall people?

[jamesg]

The benefits from machinery are due mostly to how and how much we use them. They're not like skiing, rowing or cycling, where we have to get over the hills (or against the wind and tide) to get back home.

Cross country skiers and cyclists tend to be 170cm x 70kg; maybe because they do a lot of climbing.

[hjs]

I have read many sources mention that tall people are able to derive more benefit from indoor rowing because they get a longer leg drive owing to their height.

Does the reverse apply to SkiErg? Do short people get more benefits from SkiErging because they can pull the cord lower and therefore get a longer pull than tall people?

No, being tall also helps on the skierg. Its again, the more leanmass the better. And in general taller means more mass/muscle.

Pulling to low is not the way to go. Rating is key.

Being strong is important though. Being stockier can help. A traditional aerobic athlete will have trouble on the skierg, reason will be not enough upperbody strenght.

[Ombrax]

I have read many sources mention that tall people are able to derive more benefit from indoor rowing because they get a longer leg drive owing to their height.

I think the correct way to think about it is that tall people can typically (but not always) go faster than shorter ones, due to the longer drive length.

However, when it comes to individual benefit from using the machine, it will help anyone, tall or short.

If you're looking for a machine that will allow you to get a great workout I would not let your height be a determining factor in choosing the SkiErg over the RowErg.

[mict450]

I think the correct way to think about it is that tall people can typically (but not always) go faster than shorter ones, due to the longer drive length.

However, when it comes to individual benefit from using the machine, it will help anyone, tall or short.

If you're looking for a machine that will allow you to get a great workout I would not let your height be a determining factor in choosing the SkiErg over the RowErg.

Don't know how I missed this thread. Well articulated response by ombrax.

I wish we had a way of indicating "like", "dislike" on the forum. Would save a lot of extra keyboard work.