The rowing machine workout, often overlooked in favour of treadmills and ellipticals, offers a surprisingly versatile and effective fitness program. For those looking for a full-body workout that’s easy on the joints while delivering a powerful cardio challenge, then using a rowing machine is exactly what you need.
Here are 10 benefits of using a rowing machine that will transform your fitness routine:
1. Total Body Workout
Unlike exercises that isolate specific major muscle groups, a rowing machine engages a whopping 86% of your muscles with each stroke. This includes physical benefits for your leg muscles (quads, hamstrings, calves), glutes, core, back (lats, traps, rhomboids), shoulders, and arms (biceps, triceps).
A total body workout gained from rowing workouts leads to the development of stronger muscles and improved fitness levels.
2. Burn Calories, Not Joints
A rowing machine workout provides a high-intensity workout that burns calories without putting undue stress on your joints. Unlike running or jumping exercises, the rowing stroke is smooth and controlled, minimising impact on your knees, ankles, and back muscles.
The indoor rower is the best choice for people experiencing joint pain, injuries, or who are new to exercise.
3. Improve Your Posture
The rowing machine motion strengthens your back and core muscles. Giving your upper body the care it needs helps maintain good posture.
As you engage in and maintain proper form, you develop better spinal alignment and core stability, leading to a more confident and pain-free posture throughout the day.
4. Rowing Workout for Everyone
The beauty of rowing machines lies in their adaptability. You can adjust the resistance level to suit your fitness level, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete.
A rowing machine workout can be modified by varying stroke rate and duration and is a great cardio workout for all abilities.
5. Great Workout for Heart and Lungs
Indoor rowing machines are an excellent cardio exercise. The continuous rowing motion gets your heart pumping like a champ, building its strength over time and improving oxygen flow throughout your body.
You’ll notice a difference in everyday activities, from climbing stairs to chasing after the kids – everything feels easier, and you’ll have more stamina to tackle any challenge life throws your way.
6. Mental Health Benefits
The rhythmic and repetitive nature of rowing can have a meditative effect, promoting relaxation and stress reduction. While you are focusing on your breath and with the motion of your rowing stroke, your body can create a sense of mindfulness.
As you settle into a rowing rhythm, focusing on your breath and the smooth glide of the machine, you can feel like you’re getting a mental reset.
7. Building Power and Endurance
One of the many benefits of rowing machines, is that they are a great way to develop power and endurance. The forceful push with your legs at the beginning of the stroke uses core muscles and builds explosive power.
While the continuous rowing motion increases muscular and cardiovascular endurance, you will find over time that you experience improved performance in other activities and a greater ability to handle daily physical challenges.
8. Ideal As Home Gym Equipment
Unlike bulky treadmills or exercise bikes, rowing machines are generally compact and can be stored upright when not in use. One of the best benefits of rowing machines is that they are a great space-saving option for home workouts.
Aside from being an accessible way to do high-impact exercises, many models offer adjustable resistance levels, allowing you to get a challenging strength and cardio workout.
9. Versatile Rowing Machine Workouts
The beauty of the rowing machine lies in its versatility. Many models allow you to adjust the resistance level, footrest placement, and even the seat angle to customise your workout and target specific major muscle groups.
Craft the perfect indoor rowing experience for YOU! Target specific goals and, with proper form, work around any limitations.
10. Perfect Workout for Large Lower Body Muscles
The rowing stroke heavily engages your legs, particularly your quads, hamstrings, and calves.
The power you get from the leg drive at the beginning of your rowing workouts provides an excellent option for exercising large muscle groups, strengthening them and improving lower body power and stability.
Tips for Maximising Your Rowing Machine Workout:
- To maximise your rowing workout, ensure proper form. We can show you the proper technique for using a rowing machine.
- Start with shorter, lower-intensity sessions and gradually increase duration and intensity as your fitness improves.
- Listen to your body and take rest days when needed.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your workout.
Row Your Way to Fitness
The rowing machine isn’t just gathering dust in the corner of the gym anymore. It’s a versatile strength and cardio workout that is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re a seasoned gym rat or just starting your fitness journey, there are many benefits of rowing.
So, ditch the traditional gym equipment and consider incorporating an indoor rowing machine into your fitness routine. You might be surprised at how quickly you see and feel the difference.