You might have noticed that the rowing machine might not be the most sought after fitness equipment in the gym. Unlike the smith machine, or the leg press, you won't see queues of people waiting to use the rowers. But don't let appearances fool you: the rowing machine workout will not only improve your cardio conditioning, but it will help tone your muscles like no other.
If you're planning on buying a rowing machine for your home gym, it's a good idea to try one first to see it's the right piece of cardio equipment for you.
Is a Rowing machine a good workout?
Make no mistake: the rowing machine is one of the best types of fitness equipment you can get. It contributes, for example, to a better posture, as it strengthens the lats, whilst keeping the shoulders, abdomen, lumbar and pectoral muscles structure well adjusted.
Rowing Machine Benefits
Because it helps strengthen the muscles that support your upper body, like your core muscles and your back, the rowing machine workout will make you less prone to pain and injuries caused by stress, poor posture and even some exercises performed incorrectly.
If you're serious about taking your potential to the next level, this is what you should know when buying a rowing machine.
How to choose the best rowing machine?
First you need to decide how much you're prepared to spend on a rower. Rowing machines are probably the cardio equipment with the widest price range. You can spend anything from a few hundred euro to well over a thousand, and a lot of this difference is due to the features and accessories a rowing machine offers.
More expensive rowers come with large colour HD displays that are compatible with at-home fitness apps, like iFit.
Or you might get two equipment in one, if you purchase a rowing machine that adjusts to a ski rower, which simulates the workout you can get from using ski poles.
Then you need to know if the rowing machine will fit the space you have, support your weight, or have enough room for your legs. To be sure the check each product's specifications to find the dimensions, max user weight, resistance type, etc.
Popular types: Including Air Rowers, Water Rowers, Magnetic
The air rower, as the name says, is powered by air with the advent of a fan that keeps the internal flywheel in motion, which then creates resistance. The intensity will increase the faster you row.
The water rower offers smooth and quiet resistance. It uses actual water in the rowing machine, which mimics the feeling of the actual rowing. It's the 1# choice of rower for people who are experienced in Water rowing.
Another popular type of rowing machine is the magnetic rower. It provides weight resistance thanks to an electric motor and flywheel. The magnetic resistance is easily adjustable, so you can increase intensity of your workout to keep up with your fitness level.
You may also consider a recumbent bike or upright bike as they offer low-impact cardio training. This suits people with joint pain. Stationary cycling will result in the same benefits as walking. A recumbent exercise bike is a uniquely- shaped exercise bike that allows you to sit closer to the ground in a seat that is more comfortable than a standard exercise bike.
