When I can’t row (because of periformis pain or other pain), I go for long walks along the Rondout waterfront.  And practicing balance is a productive way of using the time to improve my rowing.  Balance is what it is all about.  Today I only managed to go 239 steps on the trolley tracks on which I practice balancing.  I had hoped for 300+ and was very surprised and disappointed.   So I thought about what I would need to do to improve. When you do this you should make sure you put on some insect repellent so the bugs don’t spoil it for you.  And the shoes you wear should be lighter and more like bare feet.  I wore Nike sneakers and it made for difficult stepping at times.  Mostly you need to focus.  Set your gaze at a point ahead and focus continually as you balance.  You will fail if your mind wanders.  Count your steps out loud to keep focus.  Notice how you walk and keep your head straight, your back upright.  Pace is VERY important.  Go too fast and you will most assuredly fail.  You need to be patient and go slow while you gain skills needed to stay in balance.