Very pleased to announce the release of my new eBook, 'Row Your Fat Off!'. If you have just began using the rowing machine or recently purchased a machine for yourself, THIS is the ultimate guide to get you started in the right direction towards your fat loss goals! You can check it out from the link in the description box above! THANK YOU for all of your support!!
Thanks for the video. I'd just purchased a proform 750R rower and was concerned about the resistance levels not being much of a difference. You explained it well. Thanks again. I will be also purchasing your book if it is still available.
you prolly dont care but does anyone know a method to log back into an Instagram account? I was stupid forgot the password. I would love any assistance you can offer me.
I row since I am 5 y.o. For the first 50 years, I did it mostly in the Delta of the Rio de la Plata. I experienced all kind of tides. This is a tidal river, therefore you can row against a strong current either in the beginning or in your way back, or viceversa. I used to row for 5+ hours, around 40 km, every weekend. Then I bought a Concept 2 machine. It has a PM2 (no drag factor,) but I think I can really tell when you feel like rowing on water. And let me tell you that that depends STRONGLY if you are rowing for or against the tide. For really strong tides (high head winds,) when you can't go more than a few meters for each stroke, and you have to do it at high rpm (if not, you may go backwards!,) not even in 10 you feel like you are rowing on water.
Have had a Concept 2 for 2 years now and this is the first I've heard 'drag factor'. Immediately went and set the resistance to 120. Thanks for the information. It's never too late to learn something new to improve training.
I'm 6'3", 230lbs. (I'm keeping my age to myself.) I recently went through a multi-workout series on my brand-new C2 to determine what damping setter is ideal for me. For decades, I had it set at 4. And rowed a particular way. (Mostly because it was an adjunct to resistance training...and I began rowing in the 80s, before the advent of CZcams, so I really never knew what I was doing.) After two weeks, I dropped roughly 45 seconds off my 5,000m time by using a setting of 5.5. Changing things up (I went as high as 7, as low as 2) allowed me to finally get it through my head that I need to use my legs more than I ever had. My current PB is now within 5% of my PB of 25 years ago. Can't complain about that.
Yea he probably should've mentioned in the video that whatever he's saying is a massive oversimplification. The ideal drag factor will depend on the distance you're doing, your stroke interval, your strength and height and other shit like that. Giving a narrow interval like 120 to 125 is flat out stupid. A more reasonable one would probably be somewhere along the lines of 110 to 180 but I guess that leaves too much out in the open.
@@girlsdrinkfeck yeah I have spent three weeks working my way from setting 1 to setting 10 and have been rowing at level 10 I was proud and thought I had completed rowing lol
I've watched a lot of videos on what to set the "resistance" to on a rowing machine. You are only one I found that explains it clearly in a short and to the point video. Thank you!!!
I have just started rowing at my gym per my physician order. Your videos are by far the best and the most informative. Just a note to say how much I appreciate you.
Thank you for this! I've been rowing at a "4" damper setting for 2 years with no idea of drag factor. Today I tested and found out it was only 106! I experimented with 120-125 (5-5.5 damper) during my usual 45-min session - keeping stroke was harder, but my distance/output was better. I ended up setting a new personal pace record for a 45-min row!
I had the same problem, I was rowing at damper 3, getting a 100-105 drag factor. Putting my damper at 5, I have 125 now which is ideal as described in multiple videos.
Love your videos. I just bought a Concept2 rower and am a runner but mentally burned out. Been trying to find the best way to burn 500-800 calories. This helps a lot! It’s really helped my abs and slumpy posture! Lower back a little achy but I’m sure it’s been from non use while running. Thanks for your hard work!
Thank you for such a sweet and kind comment, Kelly! I am glad you find my videos helpful - lots of new videos coming out in 2019 so be ready for those!! Good luck to you and keep up the hard work. I look forward to hearing how your rowing progresses over time!
I asked three different people in charge of the exercise room at the local YMCA if there was anything more to using the concept 2 (besides getting on and rowing) and not ONE told me even about the settings on the side let alone drag factor! THANK YOU! I am a 60 YO woman and have been setting it at setting 5 since I saw one of your videos but now will check the drag factor as well. No way am I doing 2000 meters in 5 minutes though, at any setting.........
I just unboxed my own Concept 2 Model D today. I've already rowed several times in the gym, but this video gave me a better understanding of how to adjust the resistance and how it works. Thanks!
I never knew you could check it on the machine. I would always get 1500m into the workout, and then my form would begin to fail, so I would mix it up with core or running then get back on and struggle to more than 500m, for reasons made obvious now haha. Thanks man!
Wonderful! I row with a 4 or 5. Considering I'm a beginner at strength training and that I am building stamina, this video has been an amazing pointer. Thanks so much.
Great videos! I've been rowing for years (set on 4) and now I finally have an explanation for why. It does mimic the feel of rowing on the water for me. And yeah, lots of nuts at the gym throwing the setting up to 10 - including their trainers. Everyone should watch this.
I've been rowing on 10 (drag factor 200+) for 25 mins at an average of 35 to 50spm for months now. When I started, I didn't know what drag factor was and just assumed that rowing on 10 would be best for forcing my body to adapt to the strain. I worked myself up from 5 mins sessions to 10 mins and then eventually to 20mins and then finally up to 25 mins. I remember after my first few sessions, my finger joints hurt and I had to rest for a day or two before attempting the next session. After a few months, it is just like regular workouts but I gotta admit, it felt like a drag (no pun intended) everyday. Recently, however, I'm getting used to it and treating it like just a normal activity I gotta do per day. It is only after coming to CZcams and seeing what other rowers are doing that I realized that how I began my rowing journey could be quite dangerous for most so I definitely wouldn't recommend starting at 10 if you are new. I didn't know when I did it. But I do have a question. Should I stop? I don't feel like it's hurting me. On the contrary, it felt good.
Wow, I've been rowing for years and just realized this!! Definitely gonna use this info starting tomorrow in my training. I'm the guy with the lever always cranked all the way up to 10 haha Thanks a lot for the awesome videos!!
Training Tall Dude, i need some help. I have the pm2+ model so no "more options" how can I get the drag factor? Is there another way? Or should I start thinking to upgrade? I love my machine haha
When I started rowing on the erg in 2017 I always had it pegged on 10 (drag factor 190+)... now, after 4.3 million meters rowed I usually set from 3 to 7, depending on the distance (drag factor 110 to 155). At 240lbs, I need a far amount of drag for the short, sprint rows (500m or less, DF 155 and up). Anything longer is usually done with a drag factor from 110 to 145. My recent 100K was done at DF 100.
I just started enjoying a rowing machine, and this is the answer I was looking for. I feel like it was way too easy. I had no idea how to set the resistance
@@squid6139 Its funny. I love rowing. But most people I meet hate it. I was never forced to do it tho. I imagine myself in the sea or a lake and yeah...
Started rowing 6 weeks.ago...for 3 weeks every day 7.5km in 34 minutes at level 5... Feel.so.good Tomorrow I LL work out this drag factor ,let s see what it is and brings...thx for your vids :)
Awesome! i use DF of 115 for long sessions, and 125 for shorter ones. i think that taller, heavier guys are using higher DF. keep up the rowing videos coming!!
I always had the "fan lever" at 7, and I can't remember what the drag was on the one at the gym. I am waiting for my own Concept 2 D when they get built. Used to row 30000 meters a week and can't wait to get back on it. Am 75 now.
Hello Training Tall, I''m new at rowing and learned the technique thanks to your videos. All what I did wrong, you've adressed, I corrected myself, filmed myself, corrected myself...; and so on. Because I've been deadlifting, barbell rowing,.. squatting for a couple of years now, and because i did a lot of cardio too (resting heartrate 31 to 35), I seem to be a natural at this. I mean, I really think that, when I put my mind to it, I could be a 500 meter (indoor on concept 2 machine) contender. Seems very arrogont to say this so I won't insist but When i test this next month in the gym (after having determined the drag factor) I'll try it, film it and post it. ANd I'll dedicate it to you, because I learned the techniques from you! Here a small video of the second time I used my rowing machine : czcams.com/video/4JNZja-HjaM/video.html (i filmed it to ask a friend of mine, who did this 20 years ago when we were teenagers at hugh school to give me some pointers and he said that technique was not bad).
Rock on, Chris!!! That is so awesome... you are a great learner and I appreciate your kind words. Happy to be a part of your fitness journey.. Hope the rowing is still going well for you. Keep up the great work!
There is little me rowing with a drag of 125 still going after 2000m, gym bro gets on the machine beside me wacks it up to ten thinking look at this weakling beside me, he goes like hell (with questionable form) gets up after 2 minutes to find a mirror to do his bicep curls!
Great info! I just got my own C2 last week, and just like you said, all of the rowers at my gym are set to “6”, and without really thinking I thought for some reason that was just the magic number. Very easy explanation, thanks!
I'm a complete amateur on rowing, so I've been practicing only one kind of workout: 10k rowing with the maximum drag factor. As I'm quite muscular, I don't feel I'm really working out with a lower drag factor. I feel no pain in my muscle doing this and doing the 10k doesn't appears to be that challenging for me. In order to progress, I focus on the split time and try to diminish it. For now, my best total time was 45 minutes. Because I had to stop for quite a long time, I'm now back in 49 minutes. Stil, I never emphases using the maximum drag, as I think one should try to find the setting that allow him/her to perform properly his/her workout without feeling any pain after. Still, that was really good info to learn.
I like the WaterRower, it has more resistance the harder you pull, which is like an actual boat. It seems easy at first, but not after a few minutes. You can vary the amount of water, to simulate a different weighted boat, but there is no “drag factor”.
Thanks for the tip on the Drag Factor, I end up using a variety of different Concept2 machines and it will be very useful to work out a comparable setting between them
Good Info .. Resistance is key on all machines ! But .. the fan rolling based machine is not the same body movement as in a row boat but the machines that are more compact hydraulic fluid pistons are closer to real boat on water. If you are concerned with similar resistance.. get on the water with boat. If you can’t do that get the hydraulic machine in the gym. Unfortunately the hydraulic fluid machine will bust a seal in time.
Learning something new with this channel. I starting to get on the rowing machine whenever I go to the gym now. Although my right upper shoulder starting to feel pain whenever I started to row for about 10mins. Perhaps I need to lower the resistance from 10 to a lower number. I usually row about 35 mins each time.(heart rate at 118) I am 52 yrs old, just trying to get back in shape. Thanks for the info. Cheers 🦅🦅🇺🇸
Thank you regarding drag factor. I don't think I have that, just numbers 1-10. Thanks for the reminder. I saw this recommendation by US Olympic rowers and this confirmed it!
Wow man super helpful video✊. I prefer to lift but recently decided I needed to start doing cardio. I've fallen in love with the rower and usually do 500m sprints on 10 but have struggled to do longer distances because it was on 10. So this vid will come in handy!
Very helpful! After checking this out, I realized I had my resistance too high and likely why I sometimes had lower back soreness. Thanks so much. Great information!
Even Concept only recommend normal aerobic rowing for males at 120-140 DF, females 110-20 i think. Every machine is different so you have to carry out the DF check and move the handle to suit. Basic idea short / spring rows can be set high - long / endurance rows set lower. If any one rows over 2k at level 10 they are WRONG - unless have trained for this and for upper body strength only.
Try to set the drag factor where you are rowing fastest/produce most watts - that's how your body will be producing most energy and get the hardest workout. But don't compensate bad rowing tehnique with a high drag factor. My best setting is around 105. In races you can set it where you want. It's like in a bike race, you can use any gear you want.
@@AB-80Xwhat I meant was: Choose the setting where you produce most energy. That will put maximum strain on your cardiovascular system. It' like choosing the right gear on a bike.
Thank you for your sharing your knowledge in these videos. I have some significant health issues and I'm struggling to find a routine in can do and get the most bang for my work out buck/time. I think rowing might fit the bill. I've watched several of your videos and I like the fun and practical way you approach your topic. Now to find a machine for home use. Thanks again.
Hey Pam! I am glad you have enjoyed the videos! I think you are putting yourself on the right track towards success! Remember, when it comes to reversing your health issues, exercise is only one component of the equation! I recommend reading (or listening if you like audiobooks) to 'How Not To Die'. It is TRULY a lifechanging book!
Drag factor is very important on the machine. Most challenges or races have a standard for Women = 110 and Men = 130. This levels the playing field and standardizes workouts for comparison purposes. Should always "set" your drag factor so you can compare apples to apples. Yes there will be minut differences between machines from multiple factors but still if drag is set it is closer.
Thanks a lot for the information! Very well explained .. I had been using "5" as a resistance for 1.250.000 meters and it seems this was good for me! (drag 125)
Great ! Videos . Coming off some major back injury . Just bought a rowing machine to help strengthen core and back . Appreciate all the rules and workouts . Will keep watching . Thanks allot Used to be in better shape and then COVID killed all that John
Great video and thanks for sharing! I'm new to rowing...needed an alternative to running due to ankle issues. I had no clue what the lever and numbers meant....they are always cranked up to the max. So hopefully I can figure out the drag on my gyms machine! I enjoy the workout it gives you, although I'm still trying to perfect my form. Thanks again!
Thank you, I jusat recently started using max drag and rowing for a shorter period of time, but now I have lower back strain. I'll work out a drag factor of between 120 and 125 and row for longer.
I always wondered why I tired out on the rower so fast. I of course had it set to 10 and I deadlift 405 lbs, so I was like I got this no problem. But I was probably jamming against it as hard as I could and it was dragging as hard as it could burning me out! Iam definitely going to try this next time I set up on the rower, thanks!
Thanks for resharing theses older tips. I have a hard time finding the sometimes. I have often told trainers and coaches not to touch my restraint unless they can til me why? No one touches my resistance factor but me now days.
Appreciate your informative videos about rowing on a machine. They really have been a big help for me to understand how to get a better workout. Thank you.
I realized that if you use the concept rower too close to a wall it will through off your drag factor reading. mine was reading at 90 when I had the damper at 5 and 180 with the damper maxed. once I moved the rower 2 feet from the wall, it started reading 130 at 5 and 220 maxed.
First off. Love your videos man. I’m a new lover of rowing because of you. So just want to make sure I understand.. if rowing at a drag factor that is higher than you suggested (say 155 for instance) would you potentially (or even probably) improve performance/times by lowering it? Or are you just less likely to injure yourself? Or both?
Training Tall my lower back can be a bit troubled at times.... have you done a video on stretching to help deal with the pain/soreness etc? Have you ever thought of trying surf boat rowing 💁🏾♂️
Going to have to share this w my athletes are my box. I coach at a crossfit box and seriously NO ONE listens to me when I tell them to STOP putting the rower on 10! Super frustrating!
I've had the same experience at the gym where I go to use a Concept2 a few times a week for some longish sets. You try and explain to people that it's the power output in Watts that they should really be focussing on if they want to increase the work they're doing and not the value on the damper setting lever. In almost all cases they just look at me as if you're talking rubbish saying that this is what they've always done with little inclination to understand what you're talking about.
I'm a certified idiot but I'd add that starting rowing with a too high drag factor would be like working out with a too heavy weight. Fewer reps, greater chance of injury. I've struggled to figure out the right damper setting but water gives me an aim point.
Yeah the damper setting isn't the most important thing to be overly-concerned about. Get it to the suggested range 115-125 and you should be good to go!
Just getting back in to rowing after a 10 year break from it. It used to entertain me all of the time when I was in the Gym, those real gym monkeys straight to number 10 and go like hell, couldn’t work out how with my 3-5 setting I could do just as much as they did on the monitors going slower and using good form. Great series by the way, helping to remind me of what I’ve been missing for the last 10 years and getting back on it
Travis Gardner has a video describing the drag factor and the various changes in the drag factor depending on the type of training you are doing and the relative strength of the individual rower.....so elite indoor champions might train at 130 while a more average person might be at something below 80. He discusses briefly how to to adjust the rower to make sure that whatever concept 2 you are using, you can set the damper to get the correct drag factor. Perhaps you could add a discussion of this to your online training course....I searched drag factor and got nothing. By the way, I enjoy your training program and it is much less expensive than Travis program, which is probably more geared to elite competitors.
I can see why this makes sense for people who are on rowing teams or will ever row on the water. But would you say that your body gets a better workout with this drag factor, even if the distance or calorie rate is lower? I can always get faster splits with the highest resistance possible.
Exciting stuff, Adrian!! Looking forward to hearing more from you! If you're looking for a 4-week kickstart rowing program, definitely check out my new eBook: "Row Your Fat Off!" - link in the description!
check the dragfactor before each workout as it can change according to temperature maintenance of the machine, etc. If you find the 125 draag to easy it might be because you are to slow in the catch. just relax in your arms and body on the recovery, and you will catch the stroke faster. Then the resistance feels right. a high dragfactor will just make your catch slow and give you injuries. .......in my oppinion.
People put them up to '10' at the public gyms because the fan screen for the Concept 2 Model D and E get plugged with dust easily. If the fan can't move air out of the fan housing, it won't move air at all, and the resistance these rowing machines create is due to the mass of air that the fan moves. What you're saying is true when the machine is well maintained, but might not apply to the machines at most public gyms. They need to go back to the Model C - practically never get clogged and the drag factor stays the same.
Thank you. But I have a magnetic rover, resistance goes from 1-8. Not sure which should I set so I just set it to 6 or 7, with that I can do 30 minutes of workout with around 25-30 rpm-s (without killing myself but still have a challenge). I don't strap my legs, they are free to move as I heard this is good for beginners.
Very pleased to announce the release of my new eBook, 'Row Your Fat Off!'. If you have just began using the rowing machine or recently purchased a machine for yourself, THIS is the ultimate guide to get you started in the right direction towards your fat loss goals! You can check it out from the link in the description box above! THANK YOU for all of your support!!
Thanks for the video. I'd just purchased a proform 750R rower and was concerned about the resistance levels not being much of a difference. You explained it well. Thanks again. I will be also purchasing your book if it is still available.
Man your rowing tips are gold, I love to row and just coming back from back injury. This info is brilliant.
you prolly dont care but does anyone know a method to log back into an Instagram account?
I was stupid forgot the password. I would love any assistance you can offer me.
I row since I am 5 y.o. For the first 50 years, I did it mostly in the Delta of the Rio de la Plata. I experienced all kind of tides. This is a tidal river, therefore you can row against a strong current either in the beginning or in your way back, or viceversa. I used to row for 5+ hours, around 40 km, every weekend. Then I bought a Concept 2 machine. It has a PM2 (no drag factor,) but I think I can really tell when you feel like rowing on water. And let me tell you that that depends STRONGLY if you are rowing for or against the tide. For really strong tides (high head winds,) when you can't go more than a few meters for each stroke, and you have to do it at high rpm (if not, you may go backwards!,) not even in 10 you feel like you are rowing on water.
Have had a Concept 2 for 2 years now and this is the first I've heard 'drag factor'. Immediately went and set the resistance to 120. Thanks for the information. It's never too late to learn something new to improve training.
It's never too late to learn something new to improve training! Truer words have never been spoken! Keep up the great work, and keep learning!
120? What is your 2k time?
Concept 2 owes you a finder's fee; Your vids are one of the reasons I bought one of their really expensive machines.
That would be awesome haha. Glad the videos have helped you though, Blake!
Ditto! 👍🏽
I'm 6'3", 230lbs. (I'm keeping my age to myself.) I recently went through a multi-workout series on my brand-new C2 to determine what damping setter is ideal for me. For decades, I had it set at 4. And rowed a particular way. (Mostly because it was an adjunct to resistance training...and I began rowing in the 80s, before the advent of CZcams, so I really never knew what I was doing.) After two weeks, I dropped roughly 45 seconds off my 5,000m time by using a setting of 5.5. Changing things up (I went as high as 7, as low as 2) allowed me to finally get it through my head that I need to use my legs more than I ever had. My current PB is now within 5% of my PB of 25 years ago. Can't complain about that.
I’ve always had my rower on 10! 😳 Now I know why my back hurts after a 10 minute row...🙈 Thanks for the drag factor Info! 🙌🏼
Haha it happens! Now you know!
I was on “10” and at times had double the recommended drag factor. Thanks. You might have saved me from hurting myself.
lol i used level 10 for the last 12 years! no injuries here then again i do deadlifting too so no weak back
Yea he probably should've mentioned in the video that whatever he's saying is a massive oversimplification. The ideal drag factor will depend on the distance you're doing, your stroke interval, your strength and height and other shit like that. Giving a narrow interval like 120 to 125 is flat out stupid. A more reasonable one would probably be somewhere along the lines of 110 to 180 but I guess that leaves too much out in the open.
@@girlsdrinkfeck yeah I have spent three weeks working my way from setting 1 to setting 10 and have been rowing at level 10 I was proud and thought I had completed rowing lol
@@jplonsdale7242 the setting is just to emulate the, real water resistance correctly yh lol. But for me it's for strength stamina
I've watched a lot of videos on what to set the "resistance" to on a rowing machine. You are only one I found that explains it clearly in a short and to the point video. Thank you!!!
I have just started rowing at my gym per my physician order. Your videos are by far the best and the most informative. Just a note to say how much I appreciate you.
💖😊 love the lovely comments!
Thank you for this! I've been rowing at a "4" damper setting for 2 years with no idea of drag factor. Today I tested and found out it was only 106! I experimented with 120-125 (5-5.5 damper) during my usual 45-min session - keeping stroke was harder, but my distance/output was better. I ended up setting a new personal pace record for a 45-min row!
I had the same problem, I was rowing at damper 3, getting a 100-105 drag factor. Putting my damper at 5, I have 125 now which is ideal as described in multiple videos.
Love your videos. I just bought a Concept2 rower and am a runner but mentally burned out. Been trying to find the best way to burn 500-800 calories. This helps a lot! It’s really helped my abs and slumpy posture! Lower back a little achy but I’m sure it’s been from non use while running. Thanks for your hard work!
Thank you for such a sweet and kind comment, Kelly! I am glad you find my videos helpful - lots of new videos coming out in 2019 so be ready for those!! Good luck to you and keep up the hard work. I look forward to hearing how your rowing progresses over time!
I asked three different people in charge of the exercise room at the local YMCA if there was anything more to using the concept 2 (besides getting on and rowing) and not ONE told me even about the settings on the side let alone drag factor! THANK YOU! I am a 60 YO woman and have been setting it at setting 5 since I saw one of your videos but now will check the drag factor as well. No way am I doing 2000 meters in 5 minutes though, at any setting.........
Unfortunately, most trainers don't have a CLUE about rowing!! And just FYI the world record for 2000m is 5:34 so I wouldn't expect a 5 min 2000m :)
Is the word record in strength-level 10 on the Row machine?
Glad to have watched this video, as I found the most comfortable position to set my rowing machine is at 4.
Awesome, went on the rower and it felt to “tough”, now I know why . . .
I just unboxed my own Concept 2 Model D today. I've already rowed several times in the gym, but this video gave me a better understanding of how to adjust the resistance and how it works. Thanks!
Awesome!! Rock on, Tommy! Wishing you a great year of rowing!
Bought my concept 2 a year ago and had no idea about drag factor. Game changer. Thank you.
Whenever I require any information regarding Rowing training, I find on this channel. Thanks Training Tall
Means a lot, Faheem! Thank you!!
That was awesome information thanks. As an amateur that bit of information is so handy. Thanks.
Of course, man! Glad I can help!
This is a great example of how to do a you tube instructional video: Clear concise and logical. Thanks.
Works perfectly. I have been using this product for a month and I have started seeing the difference in my weight
I never knew you could check it on the machine. I would always get 1500m into the workout, and then my form would begin to fail, so I would mix it up with core or running then get back on and struggle to more than 500m, for reasons made obvious now haha.
Thanks man!
Now you know! Best of luck for your future workouts, Fraser!
This channel gives great practical bits of knowledge. I learn something new in every vid
Well thanks, Dee! That means a lot!
I was using setting 10 and I've starting noticing my back hurting for the 1st time every :/ Thank you so much for your video! :)
No prob, Charles! Hope this can help you out for the future!
That can be part of it, but reality is that most people have fairly poor technique, and that will cause back pain more than anything.
Wonderful! I row with a 4 or 5. Considering I'm a beginner at strength training and that I am building stamina, this video has been an amazing pointer. Thanks so much.
Awesome, a_ri! Keep up the great work!
Great videos! I've been rowing for years (set on 4) and now I finally have an explanation for why. It does mimic the feel of rowing on the water for me. And yeah, lots of nuts at the gym throwing the setting up to 10 - including their trainers. Everyone should watch this.
Seeing trainers bump it up to 10 bugs me so much, too!! Way to row RIGHT, Donna! :)
wow. I was on a crew team for a whole ass year and no one ever explained this to me. Thanks!
"a whole ass year" lol! Sorry to hear that no one told you! Thanks for watching!
Great information. I had just left it on 10 thinking I was getting a better workout. I’m checking drag factor tomorrow.
Let me know how things go!
I've been rowing on 10 (drag factor 200+) for 25 mins at an average of 35 to 50spm for months now. When I started, I didn't know what drag factor was and just assumed that rowing on 10 would be best for forcing my body to adapt to the strain. I worked myself up from 5 mins sessions to 10 mins and then eventually to 20mins and then finally up to 25 mins. I remember after my first few sessions, my finger joints hurt and I had to rest for a day or two before attempting the next session. After a few months, it is just like regular workouts but I gotta admit, it felt like a drag (no pun intended) everyday. Recently, however, I'm getting used to it and treating it like just a normal activity I gotta do per day. It is only after coming to CZcams and seeing what other rowers are doing that I realized that how I began my rowing journey could be quite dangerous for most so I definitely wouldn't recommend starting at 10 if you are new. I didn't know when I did it. But I do have a question. Should I stop? I don't feel like it's hurting me. On the contrary, it felt good.
Thanks for sharing your story my friend - I’m glad things are working out better! We live and learn!!
Wow, I've been rowing for years and just realized this!! Definitely gonna use this info starting tomorrow in my training.
I'm the guy with the lever always cranked all the way up to 10 haha
Thanks a lot for the awesome videos!!
Hey Rogelio! I appreciate the comment - let me know what kind of difference it makes!
Training Tall Dude, i need some help. I have the pm2+ model so no "more options" how can I get the drag factor? Is there another way? Or should I start thinking to upgrade? I love my machine haha
When I started rowing on the erg in 2017 I always had it pegged on 10 (drag factor 190+)... now, after 4.3 million meters rowed I usually set from 3 to 7, depending on the distance (drag factor 110 to 155). At 240lbs, I need a far amount of drag for the short, sprint rows (500m or less, DF 155 and up). Anything longer is usually done with a drag factor from 110 to 145. My recent 100K was done at DF 100.
You did a 100k?! Respect.
I just started enjoying a rowing machine, and this is the answer I was looking for. I feel like it was way too easy. I had no idea how to set the resistance
this helps a lot and wondered why I struggle so much with 5k and my legs are so dead with setting on 10.
Now you know, Mike!
Binging on your channel so I can rock it on my rower. So far I'm loving the machine, and I love these tips! Thanks
Of course, phoenix!! Really happy to hear you're learning so much! I hope the rowing is going well for you!
Do you still love it? As a school rower, I absolutely hate it aha
@@squid6139 Its funny. I love rowing. But most people I meet hate it.
I was never forced to do it tho. I imagine myself in the sea or a lake and yeah...
Started rowing 6 weeks.ago...for 3 weeks every day 7.5km in 34 minutes at level 5...
Feel.so.good
Tomorrow I LL work out this drag factor ,let s see what it is and brings...thx for your vids :)
Awesome! i use DF of 115 for long sessions, and 125 for shorter ones. i think that taller, heavier guys are using higher DF. keep up the rowing videos coming!!
Nice man - sounds like you're setting the drag factor just right! That trend is definitely apparent! Thanks a lot for your input.
What do you consider a long and short session?
@@er4706 short would be between 5km - 8km.
I totally suck at rowing and have been trying to improve for quite some time. This will def help my next trip to the gym.
I hope this helps you out, Leslie :)
I always had the "fan lever" at 7, and I can't remember what the drag was on the one at the gym. I am waiting for my own Concept 2 D when they get built. Used to row 30000 meters a week and can't wait to get back on it. Am 75 now.
Hello Training Tall, I''m new at rowing and learned the technique thanks to your videos. All what I did wrong, you've adressed, I corrected myself, filmed myself, corrected myself...; and so on. Because I've been deadlifting, barbell rowing,.. squatting for a couple of years now, and because i did a lot of cardio too (resting heartrate 31 to 35), I seem to be a natural at this. I mean, I really think that, when I put my mind to it, I could be a 500 meter (indoor on concept 2 machine) contender. Seems very arrogont to say this so I won't insist but When i test this next month in the gym (after having determined the drag factor) I'll try it, film it and post it. ANd I'll
dedicate it to you, because I learned the techniques from you! Here a small video of the second time I used my rowing machine : czcams.com/video/4JNZja-HjaM/video.html (i filmed it to ask a friend of mine, who did this 20 years ago when we were teenagers at hugh school to give me some pointers and he said that technique was not bad).
Rock on, Chris!!! That is so awesome... you are a great learner and I appreciate your kind words. Happy to be a part of your fitness journey.. Hope the rowing is still going well for you. Keep up the great work!
There is little me rowing with a drag of 125 still going after 2000m, gym bro gets on the machine beside me wacks it up to ten thinking look at this weakling beside me, he goes like hell (with questionable form) gets up after 2 minutes to find a mirror to do his bicep curls!
Haha those guys are the best aren't they?
@@trainingtall, that's the real entertainment industry. "Those types".
Maybe it’s just a warmup lol
Personally attacked Kekw
Great info! I just got my own C2 last week, and just like you said, all of the rowers at my gym are set to “6”, and without really thinking I thought for some reason that was just the magic number. Very easy explanation, thanks!
Hey Geoff! Thanks a lot, I appreciate the kind words! I've got lots of rowing videos - I hope you can find all the insight you're looking for!
So helpful. I’m just starting my rowing workouts and am totally clueless. Thanks!
You're welcome! I hope you find some enjoyment from rowing!!
I'm a complete amateur on rowing, so I've been practicing only one kind of workout: 10k rowing with the maximum drag factor. As I'm quite muscular, I don't feel I'm really working out with a lower drag factor. I feel no pain in my muscle doing this and doing the 10k doesn't appears to be that challenging for me. In order to progress, I focus on the split time and try to diminish it. For now, my best total time was 45 minutes. Because I had to stop for quite a long time, I'm now back in 49 minutes. Stil, I never emphases using the maximum drag, as I think one should try to find the setting that allow him/her to perform properly his/her workout without feeling any pain after. Still, that was really good info to learn.
Thank you didn’t know this will definitely use this tomorrow as i have been suffering from lower back pain.
I hope this can help you out!
I like the WaterRower, it has more resistance the harder you pull, which is like an actual boat. It seems easy at first, but not after a few minutes. You can vary the amount of water, to simulate a different weighted boat, but there is no “drag factor”.
Thanks for the tip on the Drag Factor, I end up using a variety of different Concept2 machines and it will be very useful to work out a comparable setting between them
Good Info .. Resistance is key on all machines !
But .. the fan rolling based machine is not the same body movement as in a row boat but the machines that are more compact hydraulic fluid pistons are closer to real boat on water. If you are concerned with similar resistance.. get on the water with boat. If you can’t do that get the hydraulic machine in the gym.
Unfortunately the hydraulic fluid machine will bust a seal in time.
Thanks for watching!
Learning something new with this channel. I starting to get on the rowing machine whenever I go to the gym now. Although my right upper shoulder starting to feel pain whenever I started to row for about 10mins. Perhaps I need to lower the resistance from 10 to a lower number. I usually row about 35 mins each time.(heart rate at 118) I am 52 yrs old, just trying to get back in shape. Thanks for the info. Cheers 🦅🦅🇺🇸
Yes, lower the resistance and practice form!! Cheers!
I keep mine on level 5, it’s coming up to 2 years I’ve owned it from new, and I’m the only one who uses it
Thank you regarding drag factor. I don't think I have that, just numbers 1-10. Thanks for the reminder. I saw this recommendation by US Olympic rowers and this confirmed it!
Wow man super helpful video✊. I prefer to lift but recently decided I needed to start doing cardio. I've fallen in love with the rower and usually do 500m sprints on 10 but have struggled to do longer distances because it was on 10. So this vid will come in handy!
Very helpful! After checking this out, I realized I had my resistance too high and likely why I sometimes had lower back soreness. Thanks so much. Great information!
Now you know! Thanks for watching, Brian!
Thank you, ive just taken delivery of a new concept2 rower. Rowing is very new to me as a workout, this information certainly helps 👍
Glad you liked the video! Happy rowing!
Even Concept only recommend normal aerobic rowing for males at 120-140 DF, females 110-20 i think. Every machine is different so you have to carry out the DF check and move the handle to suit. Basic idea short / spring rows can be set high - long / endurance rows set lower. If any one rows over 2k at level 10 they are WRONG - unless have trained for this and for upper body strength only.
Try to set the drag factor where you are rowing fastest/produce most watts - that's how your body will be producing most energy and get the hardest workout. But don't compensate bad rowing tehnique with a high drag factor. My best setting is around 105. In races you can set it where you want. It's like in a bike race, you can use any gear you want.
No. You need to set it a a very leisurely pace and it usually only takes 3-5 strokes.
I rarely even have both feet in when I set it.
@@AB-80Xwhat I meant was: Choose the setting where you produce most energy. That will put maximum strain on your cardiovascular system. It' like choosing the right gear on a bike.
Still the best info on rowing and the best explanations always delivered in a concise and easy to understand way.
I am a newbie in indoor rowing, thanks for the great tips.
Glad it helps, Stephen!! Happy rowing!
Wow - thanks for this info, didn’t even know about drag factor on my concept 2.
Now you do! Thanks for watching!
Thank you for your sharing your knowledge in these videos. I have some significant health issues and I'm struggling to find a routine in can do and get the most bang for my work out buck/time. I think rowing might fit the bill. I've watched several of your videos and I like the fun and practical way you approach your topic. Now to find a machine for home use. Thanks again.
Hey Pam! I am glad you have enjoyed the videos! I think you are putting yourself on the right track towards success! Remember, when it comes to reversing your health issues, exercise is only one component of the equation! I recommend reading (or listening if you like audiobooks) to 'How Not To Die'. It is TRULY a lifechanging book!
Drag factor is very important on the machine. Most challenges or races have a standard for Women = 110 and Men = 130. This levels the playing field and standardizes workouts for comparison purposes. Should always "set" your drag factor so you can compare apples to apples. Yes there will be minut differences between machines from multiple factors but still if drag is set it is closer.
Thanks a lot for the information! Very well explained .. I had been using "5" as a resistance for 1.250.000 meters and it seems this was good for me! (drag 125)
Thanks, Hans! Yeah, 125 is a not a bad drag factor at all! And that is a lot of meters - way to go!!
That took me quite some time ;-) like two seasons! :-)
Great ! Videos . Coming off some major back injury . Just bought a rowing machine to help strengthen core and back . Appreciate all the rules and workouts .
Will keep watching . Thanks allot
Used to be in better shape and then COVID killed all that
John
Great video and thanks for sharing! I'm new to rowing...needed an alternative to running due to ankle issues. I had no clue what the lever and numbers meant....they are always cranked up to the max. So hopefully I can figure out the drag on my gyms machine! I enjoy the workout it gives you, although I'm still trying to perfect my form. Thanks again!
I am glad this could help you out! Knowledge is power! Keep up the great work!
Thank you, I jusat recently started using max drag and rowing for a shorter period of time, but now I have lower back strain. I'll work out a drag factor of between 120 and 125 and row for longer.
First time rowing today. I left the lever at 10 because I thought this is the level of air that cools your face 😂
😂
I always wondered why I tired out on the rower so fast. I of course had it set to 10 and I deadlift 405 lbs, so I was like I got this no problem. But I was probably jamming against it as hard as I could and it was dragging as hard as it could burning me out! Iam definitely going to try this next time I set up on the rower, thanks!
Thanks for resharing theses older tips. I have a hard time finding the sometimes. I have often told trainers and coaches not to touch my restraint unless they can til me why? No one touches my resistance factor but me now days.
I’m at 137 but will adjust it to your advised setting. Not sure how much the the difference will make but thanks.
Appreciate your informative videos about rowing on a machine. They really have been a big help for me to understand how to get a better workout. Thank you.
I'm so glad, Craig! Keep up the great work!
I realized that if you use the concept rower too close to a wall it will through off your drag factor reading. mine was reading at 90 when I had the damper at 5 and 180 with the damper maxed. once I moved the rower 2 feet from the wall, it started reading 130 at 5 and 220 maxed.
Oh really? Interesting! I'll keep that in mind! Happy rowing!
Man thank you very much for your videos. I've always wanted to learn to row. Now I really enjoy workouts
I'm glad, Marco!
I really like your all videos you are a good instructor of ergometre
Thank you very much!
First off. Love your videos man. I’m a new lover of rowing because of you. So just want to make sure I understand.. if rowing at a drag factor that is higher than you suggested (say 155 for instance) would you potentially (or even probably) improve performance/times by lowering it? Or are you just less likely to injure yourself? Or both?
I do surf boat rowing and our coach at the moment wants us to have to the drag factor at 145 to represent water conditions at the beach.
Nice! That works, too! Be careful with your back!
Training Tall my lower back can be a bit troubled at times.... have you done a video on stretching to help deal with the pain/soreness etc? Have you ever thought of trying surf boat rowing 💁🏾♂️
Going to have to share this w my athletes are my box. I coach at a crossfit box and seriously NO ONE listens to me when I tell them to STOP putting the rower on 10! Super frustrating!
I am sure that is extremely frustrating! Hopefully this will help them get a better understanding.
I've had the same experience at the gym where I go to use a Concept2 a few times a week for some longish sets. You try and explain to people that it's the power output in Watts that they should really be focussing on if they want to increase the work they're doing and not the value on the damper setting lever. In almost all cases they just look at me as if you're talking rubbish saying that this is what they've always done with little inclination to understand what you're talking about.
Thank you so much explaining drag factor so I can understand plus know how to find it the next time I row on the Concept 2 at the gym.
These videos are incredibly helpful. Thank you!
I'm so glad you think so, Tyler! Thanks for watching!
I'm a certified idiot but I'd add that starting rowing with a too high drag factor would be like working out with a too heavy weight. Fewer reps, greater chance of injury. I've struggled to figure out the right damper setting but water gives me an aim point.
Yeah the damper setting isn't the most important thing to be overly-concerned about. Get it to the suggested range 115-125 and you should be good to go!
Thanks, this is information I needed to know, I just started using a rowing machine
Nice, Charles! Glad you enjoyed the video!
Thanks, very informative - didnt know that and been using concept for 10 years...:):)
Now you know :)
This is the most useful piece of information ever! I've always wondered how to simulate rowing on water.
Glad the video could help you out, Dustin!
Just getting back in to rowing after a 10 year break from it. It used to entertain me all of the time when I was in the Gym, those real gym monkeys straight to number 10 and go like hell, couldn’t work out how with my 3-5 setting I could do just as much as they did on the monitors going slower and using good form. Great series by the way, helping to remind me of what I’ve been missing for the last 10 years and getting back on it
“Have you ever been on THE rowing machine”, that’s the ultimate honor only a few receive...we mortals haven’t even seen THE rowing machine
New rower here and appreciate the great information!
Hey, Sandy! Welcome to the world of rowing! I am glad you liked the video. I look forward to hearing how things progress with your fitness journey :)
Great tip thanks. I've been wondering if I should adjust that
Travis Gardner has a video describing the drag factor and the various changes in the drag factor depending on the type of training you are doing and the relative strength of the individual rower.....so elite indoor champions might train at 130 while a more average person might be at something below 80. He discusses briefly how to to adjust the rower to make sure that whatever concept 2 you are using, you can set the damper to get the correct drag factor. Perhaps you could add a discussion of this to your online training course....I searched drag factor and got nothing. By the way, I enjoy your training program and it is much less expensive than Travis program, which is probably more geared to elite competitors.
I can see why this makes sense for people who are on rowing teams or will ever row on the water. But would you say that your body gets a better workout with this drag factor, even if the distance or calorie rate is lower? I can always get faster splits with the highest resistance possible.
The heighest resistance seems to have the highest risk of back injury and that is why I recommend avoiding it!
I get my Concept 2 today!!!! GREAT CHANNEL!!!
Exciting stuff, Adrian!! Looking forward to hearing more from you! If you're looking for a 4-week kickstart rowing program, definitely check out my new eBook: "Row Your Fat Off!" - link in the description!
check the dragfactor before each workout as it can change according to temperature maintenance of the machine, etc. If you find the 125 draag to easy it might be because you are to slow in the catch. just relax in your arms and body on the recovery, and you will catch the stroke faster. Then the resistance feels right. a high dragfactor will just make your catch slow and give you injuries. .......in my oppinion.
Great information here. Didn’t know this and will definitely set the tower up before my next workout.
Thanks!
Thanks, Greg - I appreciate it! Glad you liked the video!
People put them up to '10' at the public gyms because the fan screen for the Concept 2 Model D and E get plugged with dust easily. If the fan can't move air out of the fan housing, it won't move air at all, and the resistance these rowing machines create is due to the mass of air that the fan moves. What you're saying is true when the machine is well maintained, but might not apply to the machines at most public gyms. They need to go back to the Model C - practically never get clogged and the drag factor stays the same.
Thanks for the information on the drag factor I will check this out on my next gym visit.J
Hope it goes well for you!
This really helps. Thank you.
I'm glad, Ollie!
I'm a rower from New Zealand and we usually say 130 for men and 120 for women. For longer u2 pieces I'll go down to 120.
Great video, as usual. Thank you!!
Thanks Austin. Very helpful
I love these videos helped me so much - thank you
I had it on 10 for over 50 minutes, 8 hours later my back was awfull for 2 days in a row.... next time i will go for 5-6
Be sure to check out my other tech videos too to make sure your form is alright!
Thank you - that was very informative ! All makes sense now. X
I'm glad, Margaret!!
Resistance of water,,appreciate this tip!!
Thank you. But I have a magnetic rover, resistance goes from 1-8. Not sure which should I set so I just set it to 6 or 7, with that I can do 30 minutes of workout with around 25-30 rpm-s (without killing myself but still have a challenge). I don't strap my legs, they are free to move as I heard this is good for beginners.