Body Workout Plan

There are two types of rowing machines, namely, water and hydraulic. Both have seats that slide on tracks on which you can push or pull. The water model has a flywheel that you use to resist the drag of the water. This gives you the workout that you need. Hydraulic rowing models are more common and are generally used at home.

These versions have a shock absorber attached to the handles which are used just like oars. Both types of rowing machines give you the workout that you require. You may prefer the water type because using it gives you the feeling of actually rowing through water and you may find that this gives you a pleasant feeling.

Advantages: Rowing machines provide a good workout for all the major muscle groups. You use your legs, back, arms, abdominal muscles as well as the buttocks when you row. Further, rowing is an aerobic as well as a strength training exercise.

Thus, you get the benefit of two sets of workouts in this and end up burning a lot of calories. Rowing machines help strengthen your back. Not many exercise machines do that. You can use rowing machines all your life because the exercise is free of impact.

Disadvantages: Even though rowing machines give excellent workouts, people often get bored with the repetitiveness of the exercise and as a result the machines fall into disuse, collecting dust. Rowing is a tough exercise and may be hard on the body, especially for the elderly or for those who had let their body get out of shape. One must take proper care to use the rower in the way it is meant to be used. Unfortunately, every one is not always careful and may suffer knee or back injuries as a result.

Naturally, those who already have bad backs or knees should not use this equipment. In spite of all these factors, it would seem that rowing machines are regaining their lost popularity.

Buying considerations: There are certain aspects you must take into account when you consider buying a rowing machine. First, make sure that the frame fits you. Generally, the available models do not fit people who are more than 6 feet tall. The size of the seat may not fit a large person. Besides these considerations, you must make sure that you have enough room in the house to set up or store the rowers because they take up a lot of space.

Models that could be folded and stored under the bed are available. You must also check to ensure that the frame is sturdy and the machine moves smoothly during all the strokes. If the rower includes a track, you must make sure that the seat which moves on the track has ball bearings.

This will provide for long time, trouble free use. Check also on the foot rests. They should swivel and not protrude at a sharp angle. The seat should feel comfortable. An uncomfortable seat will not encourage sustained use of the machine.

Costs: Hydraulic rowing machines are cheaper than the water rowers. Prices of hydraulic machines range from $200 to more than $3,000. Water rowers cost upwards of $1000. In spite of its higher cost, people tend to prefer water rowing machines because it gives them the feel of rowing in water in a boat.