This new book (available at Amazon.com and other locations) may be of interest to you or - more likely – to parents of rowers.  The idea is to use rowing machines for regular daily, moderate exercise to improve energy and health.  More info available at www.sarahprimerowing.com.  Here are some quotes about the book:

"Great motivation for both the novice and the lapsed athlete to adopt a healthy and balanced approach to daily exercise, this book has the potential to change and lengthen your active life."

Jo A. Hannafin, M.D.
Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Weill Medical College of Cornell
University, Hospital for Special Surgery; Olympic Team Physician, 2004;
Member, International Federation of Rowing Associations ("FISA") Sports
Medicine Commission; Three-time National Champion (double; quad).
 
 
"Filled with positive energy, encouragement, and sound advice, Ordway shows the way to improve your fitness and quality of life through rowing."

Marlene Royle, OTR
Rowing Coach; Author of Tip of the Blade: Notes on Rowing;
Founder of Roylerow Performance Training Programs, www.roylerow.com.

 “Mr. Ordway offers a wonderful perspective and approach to rowing via discussion of concepts and principles that also apply to good living. This book is like a ‘golden gateway’ to the sport of rowing for those who know nothing about it and a demonstration of how easily you can find better health and a better life through rowing!”

Victoria Draper

Founder/CEO, Rowbics Indoor Rowing, Inc., www.rowbics.com.

 “Until I began rowing indoors several times a week at age 53, I never believed what I had always been told, that you have more energy when you exercise. Almost immediately after taking up indoor rowing, I noted a significant change in my sleep pattern. I was able to fall asleep easily and when I awakened I felt more rested than I had in years. In addition to relieving stress, rowing has improved my memory function and I have experienced a reduction in chronic neck and back pain, better control of my hypertension, and less dependence on prescription medications. I find that mornings are the best times to work out on my rowing machine. Rowing first thing in the morning gives me a chance to clear my head and plan my day. For the first time ever, I actually look forward to exercising. I’m hooked.”

Diane E. Goller, J.D.

Crew Parent, Domestic Relations Attorney.

 “Use this book for essential encouragement as it lights the pathway to improved physical and mental health through rowing. As a 60-year-old, non-athlete psychologist,I am thrilled to see this wisdom on the benefits of rowing being shared with a wider audience. In my experience and that of people I know from rowing in Austin, Texas and at Craftsbury Sculling Camp, rowing is an effective and enjoyable way to turn back the effects of osteoporosis and returns many other health benefits. Hooray!”

Jean Ehrenberg, PhD

Clinical Psychologist, Recreational Rower.