During the drive phase of the rowing machine exercise, which of the following is the correct order of movements that maximizes the contribution of the legs and minimizes arm fatigue?

In the drive phase of rowing, it is essential to engage the legs effectively before incorporating the trunk and arms to maximize power output and efficiency. The correct sequence starts with hip and knee extension, which utilizes the large muscle groups in the legs to generate force against the rowing machine. Starting with this leg drive allows for maximal force production, contributing significantly to the overall propulsion of the stroke.

Following the leg drive, trunk extension comes into play. This movement transitions the force generated by the legs through the core to the upper body. Engaging the trunk right after the legs ensures that the momentum created is effectively transferred for a powerful stroke.

Finally, elbow flexion is employed, which involves pulling the handle towards the body. This step uses primarily the upper body muscles, and performing it after the leg and trunk movements reduces the chance of arm fatigue, as the arms are not over-exerted at the beginning of the stroke.

Thus, the combination of these movements in the order of hip/knee extension, trunk extension, and then elbow flexion maximizes the engagement of the legs and minimizes the workload on the arms, enhancing performance and endurance during rowing.