Most gyms have a rowing ergometer or "row erg," and most people use it for rowing. Makes sense. But there's more you can do, like these challenging core exercises.
1 – Oblique Twist
Hold on to the erg seat from the side in a push-up position.
Once you're stabilized, move to each side. Go just as far as you can control.
Each side-to-side counts as one rep.
2 – Roll Out
Step to the back of the roller and grab the seat. While holding the push-up position, push your arms forward.
Go as far as you can without letting your low back go into extension.
Too tough? Do it from your knees.
3 – Knee Tuck and Pike
Place your feet on the seat and assume the push-up position.
For the knee tuck, bring your knees into your chest.
For the pike position, bring your legs in while hiking your hips up into the air.
4 – Single-Leg Knee Tuck
Same as the previous exercise, but only have one leg on the seat.
Tuck your knee into your chest.
5 – Plank Position Roll Out
Place your legs on the seat and assume the push-up position.
Push your body backward as far as you can without letting your low back go into extension.
6 – Resisted Knee Tuck
Place your legs on the seat and have a partner put the handle of the rower on your feet.
This is the same as the previous knee tuck but now the rower will provide resistance for the tuck.