I did 15 minutes on the rowing machine Tuesday, and thought I was going to die. I have zero ability to pace myself on that thing, but I bet I'll figure it out eventually.
If its a C2, learn to read the Erg and pace yourself on that.
If its not a C2, then I'd reccomend finding one.
Keep in mind when you're dispensing your advice that some of the guys you're advising do hunts every year that you can only dream of.