To ask if a sore back after you first start using a gym rowing machine is normal?

[Portobellomushroom]

I am fit and do a lot of exercise but have perennial issues with weak glutes - doing exercises specifically for this at the moment.

Started rowing with gym rower (at home). Had a 1:2:1 with a trainer and it was great.

But today, back really hurts. She corrected my technique so i know what i was initially doing wrong.

But is it because I've got a weak ass, as it's all about the legs, or is ti because it's a new exercise for the body?

I'm planning to go back to it tomorrow

Rowing isn't 'all about the legs' it's a full body effort. When moving forward you should move your arms forward, then lean your body forward from your hips and then bend your knees and move the seat forward - in that order. Then the reverse to move back, pushing off the footplates line a controlled jump. You should be able to count to three on the forwards move and one smooth push on the back stroke.
I think you should go back to the trainer and improve your technique.
(I used to row for a national team)

Thanks, that's helpful. Sorry, that's incorrect to say it's all abut the legs and she was very clear about what you said and how to do it. But I know the push of the legs matters and I wonder if poor glutes means the back is overcompensating.

I also prob need to practice

Lots of good YouTube videos if you search ‘ergo technique’ or ‘rowing machine technique’.

It isn’t ‘all about the legs’...... but they are pretty important!

Once you get the hang of it you'll be amazed how far you can go, rowing is fantastic exercise! I hope you enjoy it!

I think you are right, and you aren't using your glutes. Be sure you aren't bending at the back rather than the hips too. As someone else who has poorly activating glutes, when you are trying to exercise them, keep them tense the whole time, otherwise your body will naturally use anything else rather than the glutes you are trying to get working.

If you often get this happening, have a look at clam exercises for your glutes too - again, keep your bum clenched, or you will be using your back muscles.

I do clam exercises (YAWN!) but that's very good advice, Christmas. Clench! Clench! Clench!