Improve Your Rowing Erg Score: A College Athlete's Guide

Question
I'm a HS senior about to enter college and I will be rowing for a major university in the fall on their novice team.  I'm 5'7" 160lbs and my best erg score is 7:40.  I've been stuck here for a few months and would like to know how the best way to try and get down 5-8 secs prior to fall training. Should I focus on erging, lifting, cardio? Thanks.

Answer
Karen,
7:40 is a pretty good time. Because a 2k is a sprint, cardio is less important, but it can never hurt. I would highly recommend lifting heavy weights to bulk up, and I would also recommend doing 1500's on the erg at goal. I think getting your time somewhere in the 7:30's is very do-able.
Good luck,
Annie