Rowing machine

If you got told not too then I imagine there was a good reason for them to tell you this, but if it was me I would be asking surgeon or physio if you had it.

I wouldn't do anything without clearance from the powers that know, suggest stationary bike, but check first even GP should know this

Just shows the difference in approach depending on who is giving the advice: I'm 4 weeks post op and my physio told me I should go on the rowing machine! I don't think I want to because I didn't much like it to start with! I'll probably try it sometime though and stop if it hurts.

Hi I am afraid I would be very sceptical of your personal trainer. As I have MS I used a local trainer known for 'rehabilitation therapy' with lots of qualifications, as well as being the most qualified trainer for all in the area. Over a year and a half ago I developed a really bad hip and told him every time I used heavy weights (he never let me use anything less than 16kg, often it was 30kg-60kg) or did high resistance rowing etc it didnt help, and I would ache afterwards and my hip movement became restricted. He poo pooed me and told me I was a hypochondriac, and I needed to do as he said to have any meaningful results, and like a wide eyed puppy I listened to everything he said! To cut a long story short, having seen a hip surgeon as it became far worse, this approach has rapidly accelerated my need for a hip replacement. I am furious with myself for not standing up to him, but against my better judgement relented due to his qualifications...

Having delved deep into what and what I cannot do for life in discussion with a surgeon, (before and after THR which is still to happen)  if I did use a rowing machine (which he doesnt want me to ever now or after) I would be doing it in my own time and not with a trainer who pushes you harder. 

Also, I am now training in the 'orange zone' with a well known heart rate monitor  (any heart rate monitor watch will do - but try to make sure the strap goes around your heart and is not a wrist one as they are more accurate), by myself. I have been told to spend a lot of time on the walking machines, cycling machines, cross trainer all with lower resistance and then doing upper body. I am stil getting a buzz from the training this way, it's just my 600 calorie burn takes 60 minutes rather than 45 and is a hip safer train.

I think PTs are great, but think hard how much you want to use one and what his/her qualifications are with respect to the hip. I feel their mentality is different, and it is you who will pay the price if it goes wrong ... as I now know and I am very very upset about it.

I cannot recommend enough training to a heart rate monitor with some help from a PT from time to time, but listen to your gut instincts. You need to develop a program to sustain you for life and not put any strain on your hip. It's hard but you'll get there xx

[color=#333333]Hello wardrobe mistre, [/color]

[color=#333333]don't do it if  you you feel not comfortable with it -- any exercise they want you to do and you feel reluctant , listen to your body and just say NO ... [/color]I  am not sure if this is a for-life restriction though ...Personal trainer has a different approach to finess, I think .., Physical therapist are more trained to get your body, muscles , posture etc.going after surgery or other physical ailment ...Maybe you can ask a physical therapist .. you might not get an answer from orthopedic surgeon or office as you are 2 years post-op ...  let us know how you are getting onbig warm hugrenee [color=#333333]?[/color]

In rowing, you extend your legs straight out...no problem...but then you flex your hip like a frog.

I do nothing without asking...I hope to not repeat my hip

I personally don't think it is worth using the rowing machine when you can do other forms of exercise with no risk at all....I am cautious, really cautious and careful. My view is that there are certainly some movements that aren't good for us, and even just the fact the rowing machine is so close to the floor and the angles of your legs etc...I wouldn't do it...

Any PT worth his salt should KNOW not to push a client if they are uncomfortable with certain movements - we are careful with very good reason.  I would be wary of using someone who has so little experience and he seems very gung ho to me.

I use a bike, walk, walk on treadmill, swim and do mat exercises. I avoid the rowing machine like the plague because of the angle of the hips and the pulling repeatedly  - not good. I am not keen on the cross trainer either - because it wears me out too quickly, and I prefer to exercise for longer...

Don't do it is my advice, if you felt comfortable you wouldn't need to ask the question. Follow your heart and instincts with your hip - if you are questioning anything this is your very tuned in warning system ...

Thanks everyone. I think Rose is spot on cos if I'm asking the question then.........

i have thee more sessions (sharing cost with a friend) already paid for but I will be very careful and just do what I'm comfortable with.