Help for new rowers with past knee problems

[dgivnish]

I need some help from rowers who came to rowing with knee problems.

Several of my friends are interested in starting to row. They are in their 50s and 60s and play golf. They are looking for a long-term exercise option that is effective for cross training. They are using an elliptical or exercise bike now and aren't happy with the results -- either not losing weight or gaining upper body or core strength. Don't laugh on using cross training for golf - Tiger Woods is supposed to be rowing since his knee operation and it hasn't hurt him much.

Here are my questions - how do you adjust your stroke to minimize stress on your knees, and has rowing helped you compared to other methods of exercise? Most of the stroke adjustment suggestions on the forum have been some combination of not locking the knees at the finish, and shortening the stroke at the catch to reduce compression. Any other suggestions?

Thanks very much for your help.

DaveG

[John Foy]

I have a ruptured Anterior Cruciate Ligament and a torn Miniscus cartilage. Rowing is the only sport I can do that does not give me any knee problems whatsoever. I use a full slide and a proper technique with no problems at all. I have been rowing now for about 11 months although 4 of those months I was out due to surgery and back problems.


JOHN

[MomofJBN]

As part of proper form, make sure the knees don't sway from side to side. They should go straight forward and back.

[grams]

I have a blown acl and other knee problems + ankle problems too. I have to use an ankle brace and a herky knee brace to use a cycle trainer, but the erg doesn't bother my poor old joints at all.

Remember to keep your ab muscles tight when erging so that you don't hurt your back. You will probably unconciiously favor your knees which can lead to putting too much strain on your back

grams

[dgivnish]

Thanks very much for the replys. Now their complaints will be just whining...