Diane B
My experience with rowing was very sporadic until June 16, 2002, when I started rowing regularly. Two and a half years ago, I was diagnosed with diabetes. Both my grandmothers died from complications of diabetes and my dad and three of his sisters are diabetic so, it is rampant in my family. Walking had been my main exercise until I got back on my rower and found out how it lowered my blood sugar readings.
Since then, I have tried to row 5000 metres daily; I even rowed on a Concept2 rower in Redondo Beach, California, when I was there visiting with family. Rowing has helped me lose 35 pounds, get off blood pressure medication and drop my blood sugar readings 30-40 points.
This past year, I walked the Los Angeles and Portland, Maine marathons, climbed Mt. Katahdin in Maine and Mt. Whitney (14,496 ft.) in Lone Pine, California. On December 1, 2002, I reached my goal of 1,000,000 metres. Completing the 2002 Holiday Challenge was another goal realized.
Set your goals high. Exercise is the key to staying young and healthy. Start rowing, eat healthy foods, and have fun with your grandchildren.