A rowing machine or rowing machine attachment with an energy absorbing component configured to add responsive and compliant roll, pitch, and yaw motions to the rowing machine. The energy absorbing component is also configured to change shape so as to absorb energy in response to a compressive force by the user. Said energy absorption component returns substantially to its first shape in response to the removal of the compressive force. The energy-absorbing apparatus is configured to reduce a reaction force exerted on the user of the rowing machine.