Home exercise equipment adds convenience to your workout routine. Owning a piece of exercise equipment, such as a rowing machine, makes it easier to get in the 30 minutes of daily exercise recommended by the American College of Sports Medicine. Comparing the available rowing machine models allows you to narrow down the selection to find the best fit for your exercise needs.
Function
A rowing machine replicates a rowing experience you might have on the water. The machines feature a seat and handle on a low platform. The user pulls on the handle in a rowing motion for a workout that focuses on the arms, abs, back and legs, according to the ACSM. The workout is low-impact but repetitive. Test the function of each rowing machine to ensure that it allows for a smooth rowing motion.
Types
Rowing machines use resistance to make the workout effective. According to the ACSM, the four resistance types are air, water, magnets and piston. For a more realistic experience, a water resistance machine may be your best option. Piston machines are typically the least expensive. Try a model of each type of resistance to get a sense of your preferred type.
Features
The features of the rowing machines often set them apart from one another. A comfortable seat and handle make the exercise more appealing. The display options vary from one model to the next. Explore the display options on each model, including speed, calories, heart rate and programmed workouts.
Size
The space available in your home is a consideration when comparing rowing machines. Measure the space in your home and compare those measurements to the actual machines, keeping in mind the necessary buffer zone for a full range of the rowing motion. Folding models work well for limited spaces because you can make them more compact for storage when not in use.
Considerations
An effective method of comparing rowing machines is to get on each machine and try it out. Assess the smoothness of the rowing motion and the comfort of the machine as you use it. The transition between resistance levels should also be smooth and easy to achieve. The noise level of the machine while in use may also play a role in the selection process if you live in an apartment or have small children.
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