Rowing machines can be excellent pieces of equipment. However, if you want to reap all of their benefits, you should learn to use them the right way.

First of all, tempting as it may be, choose the right resistance. If you select to high a resistance from the beginning, you may burn a few more calories but you will end up hurting your muscles, joints and back. It's not worth it. Just choose a resistance level that will let you feel your muscles have worked without you feeling actually exhausted. If you can't move the next morning, you've probably worked too hard too long on your rowing machine the day before.

Secondly, your rowing technique should be appropriate. These are ome points to consider:

- Don't let your elbows "fly". They should remain close to the body.

- Don not let your back curve. It may hurt your lower back, and your legs and torso won't be doing a proper exercise. Always remember to use your legs.

- Make sure the pelvis and back work together at all times.

- The whole movement should begin at the hip joints.

- Whenever you lean either back or forward, do it moderately.