With the variety of exercise equipment out there, you may find it hard to decide what to purchase for your home gym. One contender may be a rowing machine, as they offer many benefits for those creating an exercise regime. Here are some of the benefits of rowing machines.
Why Rowing Machines?
Rowing machines help to exercise all the major muscle groups. These include your legs, arms, abdominals, and even your back. There are very few aerobic exercises that can strengthen your back, and rowing is one of them. When performed correctly, your legs provide most of the strength needed for the stroke. Your upper body finishes off the movement.
Rowing machines cause a different range of motion than other machines, which can help improve and maintain flexibility of the joints. The wider movement can also give the rower more of a sense of working out than the smaller movements used on other equipment, leading to more satisfaction with their workout.
Since rowing provides both aerobic and strength conditioning, it is perfect for combining with other workouts or using on down days. It can be used to help tone your muscles. If you do not have the time for an extended workout, it can be helpful to have the ability to do both activities at once. If you are low on space in your home gym, it may be a compromise between two other pieces of equipment.
Because it does incorporate aerobic exercise, rowing can be a great calorie burner. Since you are using your entire body at once, it feels like you are doing less work. This makes it easier to burn more calories than riding a bike or jogging for the same amount of time.
Once the movement of a rowing machine has been mastered, the equipment can be used by people of any ages. Since it is fun, it may be a good way for your kids to get some exercise, though they should always be supervised to avoid injury. Since it is low impact, even the elderly or those with joint problems can use the machine. Always check with a doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
Rowing is smooth and impact free, which make it ideal for those with joint pain or limited mobility. It can also make it more comfortable than higher impact activities like walking or jogging.
A good rowing machine will perfectly mimic the motion of rowing on a boat. So, if you choose to, the switch back and forth should be easy. This is great if you decide to take your exercise outdoors during nicer weather and have access to a boat and a lake. Or conversely, if you row for a team, a rowing machine can help you keep your training up even in inclement weather.
Rowing Risks
Rowing is not without risks though. Some people never become comfortable with the technique for the machine, or never are shown how to properly use it. Improper use can lead to injury, particularly of the back. Go to a gym and try out the machine before buying, and always make sure you are comfortable with the use of the machine before trying at home. Whenever possible, try and get an experienced person to show you the proper technique. As with any other exercise, you should always consult your doctor before trying something new to prevent injury.
Selecting the Right Rowing Machine
When shopping for a rowing machine, make sure that you go for one that focus on rowing. Other machines that multitask and can be used as other equipment lose some of the true feeling and smoothness of motion. Check the seat and make sure that it moves smoothly and feels comfortable.
The seat should support your lower back and can be adjusted to accommodate your height. You should be able to understand and operate the controls on the machine. The machine should operate smoothly and quietly. It should feel solid and sturdy and should not squeak or drag. You might also want to check the warranty to ensure that it covers all parts, including the electronic controls.
Summary
When used properly with good equipment, a rowing machine can be a wonderful addition to your home gym. It can offer a great workout that combines fun with actual exercise.