Rowing Machine Workout

For an all-over body workout there really isn't any exercise equipment better than a rowing machine for both aerobic and anaerobic fitness. These types of machine are ideal for exercising the upper leg muscles, lower back, abdomen, and shoulders, and of course the cardiovascular system.

Rowing helps you to work all of your major muscle groups. Each major action involved in rowing works a muscle group when doing a rowing machine workout. Your abdomen and upper legs are worked during the catch. Your arms, back, shoulders and abdomen are worked during the pull. Finally, during the release, you work your legs, your hips, your upper body and your back. Also, because the action of rowing is technically a single fluid movement, this workout is easy on the joints and shouldn't jar your knees or your elbows. This isn't the case in most other kinds of exercise. You will have to remember; however, to stay relaxed and not let your muscles tense or lock up during your rowing machine workout. It is also a good idea to start slowly. As you build up strength you can adjust the settings on the rowing machine, but you shouldn't ever try to overdo it. Rowing itself produces faster results than other exercise methods, so the need to push harder isn't as strong when you have a rowing machine workout.

In many ways a rowing machine workout is like using an elliptical machine without the standing. This really comes down to preference, if you prefer to work out while sitting down then obviously the rower is a better choice. They both give a very similar upper and lower body workout and they help your body burn a similar amount of calories per hour.

Finally, a rowing machine workout helps to strengthen your body's system. Rowing is an aerobic activity, and as such it works your cardiovascular system as well as your muscles. Rowing increases your heart rate which makes it stronger. A strong heart is less prone to disease if you include a rowing machine workout in your regimen. Rowing also helps to work out the lungs. The work out will naturally leave you a little bit breathless. As you continue to work out, you will increase your lung capacity and will be able to process oxygen much more efficiently.

Rowing really is one of the best work outs you can take part in. It is on par with swimming and the elliptical trainer in terms of overall effectiveness. Wouldn't you rather do an hour of a rowing machine workout than do an hour and a half on four different machines that might not give you the same results? Do yourself a favor and try out a rowing machine workout.