When you ask what feels good about rowing, or about exercise generally, you will tend to get several types of response.
One response is that it does not feel good; I do not exercise because it is boring, it is hard and I would sweat. It would make me sore and my muscles would become even tighter than they already are. It does no good.
Another response is, I know I will feel good if I start and stick with it, but I hate going through the early phases, the first days and weeks.
Those who have developed a routine and either avoided the obstacles of the prior response or have, at least, gotten past those first days, will often say, I do not know why, but I like the fact that I feel better all day. And I sleep better.
Some more specific responses include appreciation of losing weight, feeling more fit, having more energy and enjoying my meals more.
Some new to rowing focus on how it differs from the running and cycling and basketball/tennis/etc. they used to rely on primarily for fitness; it is more efficient and uses more of the body and I do not have sore joints from doing it.
Once you have a daily routine, you will find you feel good about including it in your schedule, doing something positive for your health, no longer feeling as heavy or full and more.
This list could go on and on, and with every person and group, something new and different comes out, a positive feeling from rowing.
Let’s consider what may be one of the ultimate good feelings that can come from rowing, the feeling of having great wind. You are working in and on your comfort zone each day you row. With longer pieces, shorter and more intense pieces and judicious use of intervals, you push yourself to a point of being more winded while you row. And, lo and behold, you find your wind improves. Not only can you then ‘push’ a bit harder or farther the next time you row, but you also feel less easily winded as you go about your daily routines. And then the day comes that you row so close to the edge of your comfort zone that you expect to feel the familiar desire to stop. But you do not. Instead, you feel you could go on forever, even though you are breathing hard.