Keep the chain level.
Rowing on an indoor rowing machine is different than rowing a boat. Unlike moving an oar in and out of the water, where vertical movement of the hands is necessary, on the erg, it’s more efficient to move your hands in and out in a straight-ish line.
Focus on keeping your hands moving horizontally, with minimal vertical movement. While there may be some slight adjustment to change direction, it shouldn’t be too noticeable, and it won’t be enough to move the chain from the center of the chainguard as it winds back in for the next stroke.
Use this cue to improve your efficiency on the rowing machine while preventing unnecessary work for your arms and shoulders. Have more questions about rowing? Feel free to ask - even in a YouTube comment. #heycassi