Focused on doing it easily — making sure that as I started the drive off the stretcher I lifted my chin, that my arms were relaxed, that my shoulders were low and far away from my ears, and that instead of starting the pull with my traps, I started with my lats.

Also — and I cannot overemphasize the importance of this — I ignored split times and strokes per minute.

And, lastly, at the slightest hint that the workout was becoming painful, I pulled less hard and readjusted body position.

To paraphrase Romans 7:15, “for what I would, that I do.” But isn’t this really only another way of saying that this workout I actually did all the things I have wanted to do and know I should be doing? I tried to enjoy the workout. I tried to stay smooth and unhurried, and to row through without feeling any heaviness or effort.

The result was a much more satisfying workout than yesterday’s.