Enjoy a Full Body Workout at Home With the Best Rowing Machine

Selecting the Best Rowing Machine: A Buyer’s Guide

To pick the right rowing machine for yourself, you should consider the following factors:

Noise Level

If you’re going to use the rowing machine in an open space, then it’s crucial to check the noise level of the machine. Some machines are very loud, which can create a disturbance for your family and neighbors. Pick a quiet model that doesn’t make much sound to improve the exercise experience.

Size and Ease to Store

Rowing machines can take up a lot of floor space. If you have limited space in your home, choose the one that would fit inside your room or home gym easily. Some models can be folded or put in a standing position, which makes storage easier.

Comfortable seat

When using a rowing machine, you’re required to sit in the same position for an extended period‌. To make sure your back doesn’t hurt after each exercise session, you should choose a model that comes with an ergonomic seat. Other than that, constantly adjusting yourself during the exercise session can also be distracting, making rowing a less engaging activity. The comfort that the seat provides is a factor that must not be ignored.

Adjustable foot straps

There’s nothing more annoying than your feet constantly slipping out of the footplates while rowing. Most rowing machine models feature adjustable straps to avoid this from happening. Adjustable straps allow you to loosen or tighten the straps so you can fit your feet in the pads snugly.

Resistance options

There are several types of rowing machine resistance types you can choose from. Air or water resistance are usually the most ideal options if you’re looking for maximum resistance. Some models don’t come with adjustable resistance, which means the level would change based on how hard you pull. Whereas, some allow you to choose a specific resistance level that you can choose and change according to your preference. If your training goals are very specific, then a rowing machine with different resistance levels would be more suitable for you.

Built-in screen positioning

Some rowing machines come with built-in LCD displays that allow you to check exercise metrics such as calories burnt, time spent, and total strokes as you exercise. If you opt for a machine with an in-built display, then make sure you pick the one that positions the screen at the eye level so you can watch it easily as you row, without compromising your form or straining your neck.

What Are the Benefits of Rowing Exercise?

Rowing exercise offers countless health benefits. Some of them are listed below.

It’s low-impact

Rowing helps burn calories without putting stress on your joints. It is also very effective for active recovery since you are in control of the pace and movement while exercising. This is also one reason it’s recommended for people with early stages of osteoarthritis.

It’s great for your heart and lungs

Since rowing is a cardio exercise, it helps strengthen your cardiovascular system, which includes your blood, blood vessels, and heart. With better heart strength, your body can transport a healthy amount of oxygen and nutrients throughout your body. This makes rowing a very healthy exercise for people who are at risk of developing a heart problem.

It builds power and endurance

The combination of cardio and strengthening helps enhance your endurance and power. Power refers to your body’s capability of exerting maximum force in a short time. While rowing, you use your leg muscles to propel your arm muscles and body back to row, both of which require power and endurance.