Buyer's Guide to Rowing Machines

The rowing machine is an excellent exercise tool for your home gym that simulates the action of outdoor rowing. Though we’d all rather be outside on a beautiful day, rowing across a beautiful lake, that’s just not a practical option for most of us. The rowing machine offers the same heath benefits at home, no matter what the weather. The major muscle groups all get a steady and thorough workout while your heart gets a boost.

Firm up!

Anyone who has ever tried it knows that rowing isn’t easy. If it was, they wouldn’t call it a workout! The rowing acting causes you to stretch your way into a firmer, more supple body.

Build up!

Using high resistance and some energy, a rowing machine is a great way to build muscle. You’ll see broader shoulders and chest and a flatter stomach with regular high resistance use of your machine.

Keep it loose!

The long, sweeping motion of a rowing machine is an excellent way to become more flexible and maintain that flexibility over time. Don’t forget that a proper warm up and cool down are absolutely essential to avoid strains and sprains.

Here are a few key tips to keep in mind when you are considering a rowing machine for your home:

What is your budget?

Before you bother looking at rowing machines, you have got to sit down and decide how much you can spend on this investment. Rowing machines vary in price a great deal depending on the design and features available. Remember the old saying “you get what you pay for”? It rings true here as well. Basic machines can be had for as little as £100, but these are bare bones and very simple. On the high end, rowers can be electronic and computerized and cost in excess of £1,000.

What features are available and how do they benefit me?

Many rowing machines have programs that vary in intensity and duration based on your needs. Heart rate monitors are also a great feature because they can be used to ensure you are keeping your heart rate at the best level for optimum benefit from your routine.

How is the resistance achieved?

Depending on the machine, a rower can provide resistance by an internal electromagnet (usually found on less expensive models), air or water. Most find that air or water resistance is smoother as well as being the closest to boat rowing. Note that magnetic rowers are often foldable, making them more convenient when space is an issue.

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