Rowing machine or indoor rower is a machine which is designed in a way to feign the movements of watercraft rowing. This is used either for the purpose of rowing training or simply as an exercise machine. However, it is interesting to note that indoor rowing has now become a sport in itself.
If you are in a sports shop or at a gym and hear the words ergo or erg, they are not talking about Shakespeare but rather referring to the indoor rowers colloquially. These rowing machines are designed to calculate the energy used by the rower, which is deliberated through an ergometer.
Is it good or bad?
Well, everything good in life is accompanied by the worst and so is the case of rowing machines.
Pros:
- Weight Loss: The action of rowing in itself helps you burn calories fast. If losing weight is your top priority, this can be clubbed with your normal workout regime. Researchers state that you can burn about 377 calories by just using this machine for about half an hour.
- Cardiovascular benefits: Using this machine also counts under your endurance building regime. With the help of rowing machines, you can increase the functioning of your heart and use those extra carbs to provide energy to your body. The Aerobic exercise involved in the rowing movement will also help strengthen your lung capacity.
- Muscle Toning: The action of rowing involves the movement of almost all the muscles of your body. The legs, buttocks, hips, trunk and joints all work together to create the rowing action. By using a rowing machine you can set resistance to your levels and stimulate the muscle building process.
Cons
- High Noise: At lower levels of resistance, the ergometer produces less amount of noise. But once you push the resistance further up, the fan of the ergometer creates a roaring sound which will definitely keep all your neighbors up.
- Adaptability:Rowing machines generally require special adaptations as it involves synchronized movement of all your body parts. If you cannot move your legs and arms together, it is too early for you to invest in one of these machines.
- Time to learn: It requires a great deal of skill and time to familiarize yourself to these machines, and if you do not have the latter, in particular, you are better off with another equipment for your workout session.
Which are the perfect rowing machines available?
Choosing that perfect rowing machine suitable to your needs might be a difficult task in itself. Considering the modification and price difference each of these machines has, confusion to choose remains inherent. Well for your ease, here is the list of top rowing machines available in the market today:
- Concept 2 Model D: this model is best suited for people under the weight of 227kg. It includes a specially designed monitor arm and which contains a best in class Performance Monitor 5. With an ergonomic handle, adjustable footrest, the long 35.5 cm high seat and nickel plated chain, this machine definitely stands out.
- York Fitness R700: This machine can only handle body weight up to 110kg. It comes with eight resistance levels with air and magnetic resistance. The retractable seat coupled with its compact design and adjustable handles makes this machine worth every penny.
- V-Fit AR1 Artemis 2: This machine can bear your weight only if it’s below 115kg. It comes with pivoting PVC oversized footplates and dual position mounts. The monitor fitted in this machine has six functions and three screens, making it a desirable choice in its class.