Rowing Machines: Are They for You?
Rowing machines offer one of the best aerobic fitness workouts.
A workout on a rowing machine or rowing ergometer achieves two
things: a cardiovascular and muscle workout. If you are keen on
developing your cardiovascular systems, but also your muscular
system, then a rowing machine could well be what you have been
looking for.
A full body workout on one machine
Other cardio machines, such as exercise bikes, stair climbers,
and treadmills do wonders for your legs and butt, but do not
give an adequate workout to your upper body. Rowing machines,
believe it or not, actually work both upper and lower body. In
fact, workout analysts say that your legs get up to 70% of the
workout benefits, but your upper body gets the rest. This
basically translates to getting a full body workout on just one
machine.
Rowing machines are low impact
The other major plus is that the rowing machine offers a safer
alternative to jogging. Jogging, whether you do it on a
treadmill or in the outdoors, is a high impact exercise and is
not suitable for everyone. Each time you jog you are in danger
of trauma to your bones and joints. Rowing machines offer a low
impact workout, which is a very safe way to increase your
overall health and fitness.
Which rowing machine is for you?
There are a number of rowing machines on the market today. A
hydraulic machine is a good choice if you don't want to spend
too much. Air or flywheel rowing machines have a real outdoor
rowing feel. Air and flywheel rowing machines feel natural and
smooth, while hydraulic machines don't. The magnetic resistance
machine is a very popular rowing machine because it is very
smooth and quiet.
Whatever machine you choose, you will get your full body aerobic
workout that is low impact and the best thing for your muscles
and your heart.