Questions about muscle aches

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DiamondCookies
DiamondCookies Posts: 93 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
So I found the rowing machine in my gym and I've fallen in love with it, even though I can't go for more than 6 minutes right now. I go at a pretty moderate pace, and part of the reason why I can't go for more than 6 minutes is that, typically around the 5 minute mark, my shoulders start hurting a lot. I don't really get DOMS, though, and if I do it's really gentle and barely noticeable. Should I just power through the pain if it's not causing me any long term pain, or is it a good idea to stop and switch to doing a different exercise? And will this go away eventually? I'd really like to go longer on the rowing machine.

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  • Sp1tfire
    Sp1tfire Posts: 1,120 Member
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    If there are coaches available at your gym or an equipment trainer I'd ask them to check your form on the machine. If something is off that could be causing pain.
  • usmcmp
    usmcmp Posts: 21,220 Member
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    You may have the resistance too high for your current fitness level. I agree with doing a form check (even if you just video tape it then watch a tutorial on YouTube).
  • Clarewho
    Clarewho Posts: 494 Member
    edited May 2017
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    Agree on the form check. Also be aware (assuming it's a Concept2 rower), higher damper setting is more for strength whereas lower is more cardio. Presumably as you're trying to build up your time you want more of a CV workout, so don't be tempted to dial up the damper for vanity's sake.

    ETA: Ah I see usmcp said it better than me!
  • DiamondCookies
    DiamondCookies Posts: 93 Member
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    Thanks for the advice! I'll definitely do a form check next time I go, I have a desk job and I'm often sitting at a desk doing work so I know proper back form is something I struggle with on a day to day basis.

    I actually can't change the resistance, they're permanently locked at a 10. (And @clarewho, yes they are Concept2 rowers) None of the gym staff will remove the lock either. :neutral:
  • Cherimoose
    Cherimoose Posts: 5,209 Member
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    mirtrevelyan wrote: »
    I actually can't change the resistance, they're permanently locked at a 10

    That's ridiculous. Maybe you can talk to the club manager about unlocking it. Show them this, from Concept 2:
    Debunking the Myths: Damper Setting
    concept2.com/news/debunking-myths-damper-setting-stroke-rate-and-intensity
  • ChristineE63
    ChristineE63 Posts: 105 Member
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    I agree with getting your form in order but would suggest doing interval training, I do one minute steady rowing then 30 second all out rowing repeated till I reach my goal, usually 11 minutes, in the 1 minute of steady rowing you can correct in slips in form that may have occurred.

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