Get Maximum Workout Benefits Through Rowing
By Rachel Carver
When it comes to selecting a workout, there are endless machine types, at-home exercises, and fun videos to choose from. For most of us, time is precious. You want your workout to give you the maximum benefit to help you meet your fitness goals and make the most of your time. If you are looking for one workout for your entire body, consider investing in a rowing machine.
Rowing machines use up to 86 percent of your muscles. This strengthens and tones your muscles and increases your endurance. Here are some additional rowing benefits.
Rowing Targets All Muscles
You use your upper body and legs to complete the rowing stroke. This targets major muscle groups including:
- Abdominal muscles
- Upper back
- Arms
- Obliques
- Calves
- Glutes
Anyone Can Row
Whether you have balance or vision issues, rowing is a great addition to your workout routine. If space is a concern for you, this machine is all you need. It can be folded and easily stored. Start with rowing if you are new to regular exercise.
Rowing is Low Impact
Rowing allows you to strengthen your muscles without putting stress on your joints. This workout is also a great way to burn calories. You have complete control over the pace and intensity, which can be helpful if you are recovering from an injury. Rowing is sometimes recommended for people with early stages of osteoarthritis.
Rowing Relaxes You
There is just something calming about rowing on the water. A similar feeling can be achieved indoors on a rowing machine. Combine the smooth, gliding motion of this machine with your favorite tunes to relax your mind and make your workout seem very fast. This happens because of the four repetitive phases of the row stroke.
- Catch
- Drive
- Finish
- Recovery
Rowing Benefits the Heart and Lungs
This workout strengthens the cardiovascular system which contains the heart, blood vessels, and blood. The intensity of this cardio exercise causes the heart to push more blood through the body, improving heart strength. This could help anyone at risk of developing heart problems.
Rowing Offers a Different Machine Choice
Ellipticals and treadmills are widely used and found everywhere. It can be easy to overlook this machine. However, there are many reasons to choose this third option.
- The treadmill primarily works the lower body while the rowing machine targets multiple muscle groups
- An elliptical workout will target additional upper body muscles, but rowing will also work your abdominal muscles
- In addition to easy storage, a rowing machine makes less noise than a treadmill
- Treadmills are generally more expensive than rowing machines
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Sarasota, Fla.