1st Erg Exercise Experience

I used an ergometer for exercise for the first time today at the local YMCA. It was a Model D from Concept2.Their website recommended doing several short rows the first time. I did four of 5 minutes each. It took most of the first one to the hang of how to use the thing. I started out being a pansy on the drive and didn't get much resistance until I used my arms. It wasn't until near the end of the first "set" that I realized I had to hit the start of the drive much harder in order to get any resistance for my legs. The last three went much better. As usual, I had to be careful about engaging the back too soon. Next time, I'll bring the FlipVideo to tap one of these sets to get a better handle on my technique. Since I'm still recovering from a 2 week long infection, the small number of short sets suited me just fine!

P.S. Everyone who uses the machine calls it an "erg." It's a made-up name meaning work meter or work machine. The common name reflects the love-hate relationship everyone seems to develop with using the thing for (winter) training.

Rowing Against the Current

I just finished Rowing Against The Current (On learning to scull at forty) by Barry Strauss. It is a short, enjoyable, fast read. I'm not sure how someone who's never rowed would like it. The author does a good job of describing a number of ephemeral aspects of being on the water, a bit of the sport becoming a sport in the late 1800's, rowing in ancient naval warfare, and some of the serious training he does. Plus midlife angst of former teenage non-athletes, not the career or marital kind of crisis. Recommended.

Next up, David Halberstam's The Amateurs.