Instead of rowing the usual two 30 minute intervals, I rowed straight through for a full hour. I did stop once or twice to change displays on the Performance Monitor or Ergdate, and another time very briefly to stretch my lower back.

The overriding goal for today’s workout was to row 10 meters-per-stroke. I didn’t think about rate, although it remained in the 16-20 spm range, and I paid scant attention to the Force Curve, although it showed that I wasn’t working so hard early in the stroke and managed more or less to maintain pressure throughout its entirety.

Although the workout was slightly more demanding than the slower Tai Chi workouts of the past 10 days, it was nonetheless a very satisfying workout. In fact it I would argue that it fits the criteria of a Tai Chi Rowing because the movements were slow and focused. The only thing I did differently was pull a little harder during the drive to make sure I rowed 10 complete meters.

Another thing I should note is that I feel less rigidity in my lower back after a workout when I have pulled harder during the drive. Afterward I definitely feel lighter on my feet, less stiff, more balanced, and more relaxed while walking. And less tired! Am I just imagining this? Or is there a biomechanical explanation for it?