Book excerpt: Indoor rowing machines (or ergometers) were once used only by outdoor rowers during their winter training. Over the last twenty years however the benefits of indoor rowing have attracted more and more users, and now every gym comes with one as standard. It's also a sport in its own right, with competitions ranging from school leagues to the European and World Championships. The Complete Guide to Indoor Rowing is the first comprehensive book to focus on this unique form of strength-endurance training. Clearly illustrated in full colour and packed with information, training plans, tips and techniques, it is suitable for serious athletes, outdoor rowers and regular gym users alike, and is a must for health professionals and coaches. Whether you are attracted by the weight-loss benefits of the rowing machine or using it to coach cross-training athletes, this book will help you get the best from each session while, crucially, remaining injury-free.