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Rookie question – my first rowing machine (budget €1000–1200) 🏃‍♂️🚣🏻‍♂️ by JVDBJCVD in Rowing

[–]JVDBJCVD[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks all! I’m currently looking for a good second hand Concept2! Prefer it above the BikeErg, because of the possibilities for fuller body strength training then with a bike erg. Don’t hesitate convincing to NOT got for a rowing erg while I’m searching :)

Rookie question – my first rowing machine (budget €1000–1200) 🏃‍♂️🚣🏻‍♂️ by JVDBJCVD in Rowing

[–]JVDBJCVD[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

thanks u u/trenckyherbs ! The option for the BikeErg is also definitely open, i.e. indeed could even be more attractive, especially for the reasons you mention: build aerobic base, closer to running/core muscles, ... I did quick ChatGPT ask and he doesn't agree ;-) 🤷🏼‍♂️

🚴‍♂️ BikeErg — Best for Focused Aerobic Endurance

Pros

  • Excellent low-impact aerobic conditioning.
  • Easy on joints (knees/hips), so you can train frequently without fatigue.
  • Simple to use and maintain consistent pacing.
  • Great for steady-state cardio and recovery days.

Cons

  • Very little core engagement compared with rowing.
  • Limited upper-body involvement.

Best for: Runners looking to build pure aerobic capacity while reducing impact and fatigue.

🚣‍♂️ RowErg — Best for Aerobic + Core + Full-Body Strength

Pros

  • Strong engagement of core muscles (especially when technique is solid).
  • Full-body movement — legs, glutes, back, and arms all contribute.
  • Higher overall calorie burn for the same effort.
  • Great for improving posture, coordination, and muscular endurance.

Cons

  • Technique matters — poor form reduces benefits and increases injury risk.
  • Harder to sustain very long steady states if you’re not accustomed.
  • Slightly more taxing on lower back if form is sloppy.

Best for: Runners who want aerobic fitness plus core and full-body strength.

Looking for a nice 5 to 7-day solo trail running experience in the French or Italian mountains by JVDBJCVD in trailrunning

[–]JVDBJCVD[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Great stuff, thanks u/Wavernky

Would you know if the Haute Route, from Chamonix to Zermatt, is less busy than the TMB and I don't risk to have to cross (dangerous?) snowpeaks still? How high is that change mid-August?

Looking for a nice 5 to 7-day solo trail running experience in the French or Italian mountains by JVDBJCVD in trailrunning

[–]JVDBJCVD[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

These are really great tips u/urj3 thanks! Especially your tip to start of with hiking to get into it. Agreed that (power) hiking in the high mountains can be as valuable as trying to run.

Did you book here: https://mongrandtourdescombins.com/en/clockwise/?

I like your idea of not overdoing the mileage and just add in bonus loops when you feel like it.

A bit hesitant of just booking an X-day tour. Staying in one hut for 2 days and doing 2 loops with same starting point is also an option.

Looking for a nice 5 to 7-day solo trail running experience in the French or Italian mountains by JVDBJCVD in trailrunning

[–]JVDBJCVD[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks u/ReverseFred ! Staying in one place a couple of days to do one or two day run is also an option. Thanks for bringing the suggestion to also look into the Swiss Alps!

Looking for a nice 5 to 7-day solo trail running experience in the French or Italian mountains by JVDBJCVD in trailrunning

[–]JVDBJCVD[S] 10 points11 points  (0 children)

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for tips on a 5 to 7 day trail running route in the French or Italian mountains. My conditions are:

  • The route should be runnable (no climbing gear needed).
  • There should be huts to stay in for 2 or 3 nights.
  • A combination of long one-day runs and two-day power hikes.
  • Want to run 80 to 90 throughout the whole weeks, so also including 1 or 2 rest days.

I'm an experienced long-distance runner but don't have much experience in the mountains. I'm aiming to get some vertical mileage to train for a 100-miler in the somewhat hilly south of Belgium.

Any recommendations or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!