Exercise is a crucial component of maintaining good health and reducing the risk of chronic disease. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends regular cardio exercise as a way to improve aerobic capacity, lose body fat, and reduce the risk of various diseases.
When it comes to choosing an exercise machine, there are many options available at the gym. However, two of the most popular choices are the rowing machine and the elliptical machine (also known as a cross trainer).
If you’re trying to mix up your exercise routine or are looking for the best at-home workout but only have space and time for one machine, you might be wondering which one provides the best workout: a rowing machine or an elliptical machine. In this article, we will compare and contrast these two popular exercise machines to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
A rowing machine, also known as an indoor rower, is a piece of exercise equipment that simulates the act of rowing a boat on water. It typically consists of a sliding seat, a handlebar, a set of pedals to place feet, and a flywheel.
The flywheel provides resistance, making the rowing motion more challenging and helping to build strength and endurance in the upper body and legs thereby combining cardio with light resistance training, giving you a full-body workout. Many rowing machines also have a display screen that shows metrics like stroke rate, distance, and calories burned.
According to a study published by Harvard Medical School, using a rowing machine can be an effective way to burn calories. The study found that participants who weighed 84kg (185 pounds) burned up to 440 calories in a vigorous 30-minute session on a rowing machine.
This is significantly more than many other indoor cardio exercises. It’s important to note that the number of calories burned on a rowing machine will vary from person to person and can be affected by a variety of factors, including your weight, intensity of your workout, and length of your session.
Here are the basic steps for using a rowing machine:
Here are some potential benefits of using a rowing machine:
While there are many potential benefits to using a rowing machine, there are also a few potential drawbacks to consider:
Overall, the disadvantages of a rowing machine may be outweighed by the benefits for some people, but it’s important to consider these factors before making a purchase.
Now that you know how to use rowing machines as well as their advantages and disadvantages, let’s talk a little about elliptical trainers.
The elliptical machine or a cross trainer is a cardio machine that allows for a low-impact workout. Standard components include a stationary platform with pedals that the rider stands on and and moves in a circular motion while holding onto handlebars for stability. The term “elliptical” refers to the elliptical path followed by the pedals.
Cardiovascular exercise on an elliptical machine is comparable to that of jogging or cycling, but is easier on the joints. It’s an excellent substitute for those who want to get in shape and burn calories but can’t do high-impact activities owing to injury or other physical constraints. The level of your training can be changed by using the elliptical machine’s adjustable resistance and pre-set workout routines.
Here are the basic steps for using an elliptical machine:
It’s important to start with a low resistance level and gradually increase it as you get more comfortable and build up your endurance. It’s also a good idea to wear supportive shoes and listen to your body to avoid overexertion.
Here are some potential benefits of using an elliptical machine:
Disadvantages Of An Elliptical Machine
Just like with rowing machines that have its set of advantages and disadvantages, an elliptical trainer also has a few disadvantages which are:
Both rowing machines and elliptical trainers are low-impact exercise tools that can improve cardiovascular and muscular endurance and help with weight loss. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and physical limitations.
Ellipticals may be more suitable for those who are just starting or returning to exercise or have knee or back pain, while rowing machines may be better for those who are already in shape and want a full-body workout. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any exercise program and to choose a machine that you enjoy using consistently.
Calorie burn for both machines is similar if done for the same duration at a moderate intensity, but consistency is the key to successful weight loss.
Rahul is a sports and performance consultant. Over the course of his 15-year career in the fitness sector, he has held positions as a strength and conditioning instructor, gym owner, and consultant.
He is deeply committed to assisting people in finding happiness and feeling good about themselves.
Rahul has a master’s degree in exercise science and is a certified NSCA CSCS and CISSN.
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