Rowing isn't just about effort—it's about efficiency. If your stroke is sloppy, you'll waste energy that should be saved for sled pushes, wall balls, and runs. By training specific rowing drills, you build technical control and maximize power output with less fatigue.
Why Drills Matter in HYROX Rowing
Rowing isn't just about effort—it's about efficiency. If your stroke is sloppy, you'll waste energy that should be saved for sled pushes, wall balls, and runs. By training specific rowing drills, you build technical control and maximize power output with less fatigue.
Drill 1: The Pause Drill (Control and Sequencing)
How to do it:
- Row normally for a few strokes
- On the recovery, pause for 2 seconds at the body-over position (arms straight, torso slightly forward, knees soft)
- Resume the stroke, maintaining rhythm
Purpose:
- Reinforces correct stroke sequence (legs → body → arms)
- Builds awareness of posture and prevents rushing
💡 Pro Tip: Add 2–3 sets of 2 minutes with pauses into warm-ups to "groove" efficient movement before longer intervals.
Drill 2: Power Tens (Explosiveness)
How to do it:
- Row easy for 1–2 minutes
- Then row 10 strokes at maximum controlled power (not frantic speed)
- Return to easy rowing for 1–2 minutes, then repeat
Purpose:
- Trains explosive drive through the legs
- Builds the ability to surge without losing form
⚡ Pro Tip: Use this during interval training—e.g., 6 rounds of 10 power strokes followed by 90 seconds easy.
Drill 3: Stroke Rate Ladder (Efficiency Under Fatigue)
How to do it:
- Row for 1 minute at 22 strokes/minute
- Increase to 26 strokes/minute for 1 minute
- Push to 30 strokes/minute for 1 minute
- Return back down the ladder
Purpose:
- Improves control at different cadences
- Helps athletes avoid the trap of rowing too fast (high rate, low power)
🎯 Pro Tip: Keep split time consistent as rate changes—this teaches power per stroke, not wasted effort.
Drill 4: Feet-Out Rowing (Connection and Core Stability)
How to do it:
- Place your feet on top of the footrests instead of strapping in
- Row with controlled strokes, focusing on balance and leg drive
- Keep torso upright and avoid "falling back" at the finish
Purpose:
- Improves body control and connection to the handle
- Strengthens core engagement and prevents over-reliance on straps
💪 Pro Tip: Use short sets (30–60 seconds) of feet-out rowing between steady intervals for skill reinforcement.
Final Thoughts
Rowing smarter isn't about more meters—it's about better quality meters. By practicing these four drills consistently, you'll build more efficient power, maintain control under fatigue, and make the HYROX 1,000m row a weapon instead of a weakness.
Related Reads:
- How to Crush the HYROX Row: Pacing, Technique, and Recovery
- Double-Down on Doubles: How to Improve Your Row & SkiErg Times in HYROX
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- 5 Mistakes Slowing Down Your HYROX Runs—and How to Fix Them Today