As early as 1876, athletes were using indoor rowing machines to improve their rowing stamina, technique and aerobic fitness. One of the first inventors of the off-water rowing training machine was W.B. Curtis, a founder of the New York Athletic Club. Early designs like his gradually developed from heavy and clunky hydraulic-based machines with iron flywheels and leather resistance straps, to today's general design featuring plastic paddles that create air resistance.
Improves Aerobic Capacity
A rowing machine's resistance level is completely adjustable, enabling people of nearly any age and ability to receive an aerobic workout that rivals those found by running or bicycling. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic recommend that everyone gets at least 30 minutes of heart-pumping aerobic activity a day for stronger muscles, better blood flow and overall better fitness as the body ages.
Burns Calories Faster Than Other Aerobic Exercise
By practicing good rowing technique, a rider can burn more calories on a rowing machine than on a treadmill in the same amount of time. Rowers who use a machine with a digital control panel will see that at least 500 calories an hour are burned with vigorous workouts. The key to burning calories is to find good rhythm, says Bill Manning, an assistant rowing coach at Harvard University. Remember to keep your shoulders relaxed and your back straight, and use your pelvis to move your body instead of curling your spine.
Get a Great Workout in Front of the TV
When the weather is too poor for running or bicycling outside, hop on a rowing machine for an even more effective workout. Most rowing machines come in compact models that can collapse to fit into any room of the house. The cheapest machines are less than $200, as of 2010, but investing at least $500 in a better one will give you a great indoor workout for years to come.
Rowing Machines are Low-Impact and Less Stress
Jumping, running and biking all have inherent risks, from joint stress and ligament tears to automobile collisions. When you're on a rowing machine, your risk of injury is significantly reduced. The comfortable bucket seat that's low to the ground enables you to sit in a natural position while working out. During the movement, you sit up instead of hunch over, which doesn't impact your neck, shoulders and wrists the way a bicycle can. Although rowing machines give one of the best workouts at the gym, they are also one of the most low-impact ways to get fit without affecting your body's joints in negative ways.
Member Comments