A guide by Phil Owen, Senior Physiotherapist at Perfect Balance Clinic, Cambridge
Rowing—whether on the water or an erg—is a fantastic way to build cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, and overall strength. However, like any repetitive sport, rowing comes with its own set of injury risks. Overuse, poor technique, and inadequate strength or flexibility are common contributing factors.
As a senior physiotherapist working with rowers of all levels, from recreational to elite, I regularly treat injuries that could have been avoided with the right preparation and care. At Perfect Balance Clinic in Cambridge, we specialise in supporting rowers through injury prevention, treatment, and recovery—helping you stay on the water (or the erg) for longer, and with less pain.
Common Rowing Injuries – and How to Prevent Them
1. Lower Back Pain
The lumbar spine takes a significant load during rowing. Repetitive strokes, poor technique, and weak core stability often lead to lower back discomfort or injury.
Prevention & Management:
- Core Strengthening: Engage in targeted core exercises such as planks, bird-dogs, and controlled deadlifts. A strong core reduces strain on the spine.
- Postural Awareness: Maintain a neutral spine throughout the stroke. Avoid excessive flexion at the catch—aim for a tall, upright position.
- Regular Mobility Work: Incorporate lumbar and thoracic mobility drills to reduce stiffness and improve stroke mechanics.
2. Knee Pain
Rowing places repetitive stress on the knees, particularly during the drive phase. Tendinopathies (like patellar or quadriceps tendinitis) and bursitis are common overuse issues.
Prevention & Management:
- Check Technique: Ensure knees track in line with the feet throughout the stroke. Avoid collapsing inward during the drive.
- Leg Strengthening: Strengthen your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes with squats, step-ups, and lunges.
- Progress Gradually: Avoid large jumps in volume or resistance. Build up slowly to allow your knees to adapt.
3. Shoulder Strain
The shoulder complex—particularly the rotator cuff—is highly active during the rowing stroke. Poor scapular control or overreaching can lead to impingement or rotator cuff strain.
Prevention & Management:
- Warm-Up Thoroughly: Use dynamic stretches and activation exercises (e.g., resistance band work) before rowing sessions.
- Target the Rotator Cuff: Include external rotation and shoulder stabilisation exercises in your training plan.
- Avoid Overreaching: At the finish, avoid pulling too far past your torso or flaring your elbows wide.
4. Rib Stress Injuries
Repeated torsion or excessive force transmission through the ribcage can lead to stress reactions, especially in competitive rowers.
Prevention & Management:
- Postural Control: Minimise lateral trunk movement and maintain strong, stable torso alignment.
- Build Core Stability: Incorporate anti-rotation exercises (e.g., Pallof presses) to reduce rib stress.
- Monitor Training Load: Avoid sudden spikes in intensity or volume, particularly during the pre-season build-up.
Injury Prevention for Rowers – Key Principles
- Prioritise Technique
Good technique is your first line of defence against injury. If you’re unsure, consider a technique assessment—minor adjustments can make a big difference. - Develop Comprehensive Strength
Don’t rely on rowing alone. Cross-training with strength work helps build resilience. Focus on posterior chain, core, and shoulder stability. - Warm Up and Cool Down Properly
Mobilise joints and activate key muscle groups before rowing. Post-session, stretch and use self-release techniques to aid recovery. - Cross-Train for Balance
Incorporate swimming, cycling, or yoga to reduce repetitive strain while maintaining overall fitness. - Use Equipment That Fits
Ensure your rowing machine or boat is correctly adjusted. Poor setup can compromise posture and lead to injury.
Treatment of Rowing Injuries
Despite our best efforts, injuries can still occur. Prompt, professional treatment is key to a quick and effective recovery.
1. Rest & Relative Recovery
Listen to your body. Pain is not a badge of honour—it’s a signal. Initial rest, combined with ice and gentle mobility, can reduce inflammation.
2. Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation
At Perfect Balance Clinic, we provide tailored physiotherapy, osteopathy, and sports therapy services. Whether you’re managing an acute injury or a longstanding issue, we use hands-on treatment, electrotherapy, and bespoke rehab programmes to support your recovery.
3. Gradual Return to Rowing
We guide you through a phased return to training, ensuring your technique and strength are restored before you resume full intensity.
4. Ongoing Support
Not sure how serious your injury is? Don’t guess—get assessed. Our experienced clinicians can provide clarity and create a plan to get you back on track.
Why Choose Perfect Balance Clinic?
We’re proud to support the rowing community here in Cambridge and beyond. Whether you row on the River Cam or train on the erg, we offer expert care from clinicians who understand the unique demands of your sport.
- Multidisciplinary Team
Physiotherapy, sports therapy, massage, and rehabilitation under one roof. - Specialist Knowledge
We’ve worked with elite athletes, club rowers, and weekend warriors alike.
Convenient Location
Located inside David Lloyd Cambridge (CB1 3LH), with on-site parking and bike racks.
Book a Consultation Today
If you’re struggling with a rowing injury—or want to prevent one—get in touch with our friendly team. Let’s work together to get you back to rowing strong and pain-free.
Perfect Balance Clinic, David Lloyd Cambridge
