With the New Year right around the corner, weight-loss and exercise are two of the top resolutions people make every year.
Rowing machines are a tried-and-true way to get a great workout at home. Rather that fighting traffic or waiting in long lines at the gym to use their equipment, you can just go into the other room and row away body fat, stay fit and improve your cardiovascular health.
While you may have seen rowing machines in the past, you may not know exactly how many different styles there are, or exactly how they work to keep you in shape. That’s okay, because what follows is a quick guide to the benefits and different types of rowing machines. If you are thinking about purchase one — or thinking about once again using the one in your room that is doubling as a coat hanger — read on and see how a rowing machine works and which one might be best for you. Also, visit this website for a detailed row machine review before committing to a new machine.
Why Rowing Machines Are a Great Choice
While there are tons of options for home workout equipment, rowing machines are one of the best choices you can make: they are easy to use, they provide you with a full-body workout and they are very low intensity, meaning that anyone can use them, even those with a history of joint or back problems.
Rowing machines work by having you sit on a seat that slides forward and backward while you “row” by placing your feet on a small platform to push and pull on a handle connected to resistance by a cable. You can adjust that resistance in order to have as intense of a workout as you’d like.
Because you use your entire body to row, you can increase your heart rate quickly and burn a lot of calories per hour. This will help cut down on body fat and tone your muscles.
The resistance is provided by different sources, depending on the model you choose. Here are the three best choices:
Hydraulic Rowers
Hydraulic rowing machines are the best option for people who are on a budget or need to save space. Unlike other models, hydraulic rowers can usually fold up for easy storage under a bed or in a closet, and they are by far the cheapest option out there.
Hydraulic rowers work by using pistons that are connected to the handlebar that you pull while rowing. The pistons have fluids in them that provide the resistance. As with all rowing machines, you can adjust that resistance to get the best workout.
There are two downsides to a hydraulic rower. First, you may find them awkward to use because they do not provide a “natural” rowing motion like other models. Also, they are not the most durable machines, either. But again, if you are on a budget, they are not a bad way to go.
Flywheel Rowers
Flywheel rowing machines use air to provide you with resistance. The rowing cable is connected to a flywheel and fan that spins when you pull it. This is a cool option because you never have to adjust the resistance manually. If you want more resistant, row harder; if you want less, row easier. The fan’s friction against the air will give you the resistance you need.
The wind that is created with each row can also help keep you cool, allowing for longer workouts.
There are two concerns with a flywheel machine. First, they are very heavy and bulky, so storage may be an issue for you. Second, they are loud. Because of the rush of air, they create a lot of noise, so if you want quiet, you may want to look for different type of machine.
Magnetic Resistance Rowers
Magnetic resistance rowing machines are more expensive than hydraulic rowers, but when you use one, you’ll know where that extra money goes.
Magnetic rowers are virtually silent: they use, as their name implies, magnets to provide the resistance. With no physical rubbing together of parts, the only thing you will hear is your heart racing and the sound of the seat sliding back and forth. This style also gives you a very smooth rowing motion that feels natural.
Unfortunately. If you are pressed for space, a magnetic resistance machine may not be the best choice for you. If, however, you have a larger budget and space is not an issue, a magnetic rowing machine may be the best option for you.
Isabella Brown was always the sporty girl at school, and knew a career behind a desk just wasn’t for her! After working in her local gym for years, Isabella took the leap and started her own business as a personal fitness instructor and wellness coach.
