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.
Your right. Taxidermy always trumps a service record and a family.
