The rowing machine is the complete fitness machine to try
Experts say it: the rowing machine (otherwise called “rowing machine”) is one of the most effective and complete gym equipment, as, by reproducing the movements that the rower performs on the canoe or boat, it allows you to train the whole body, stimulating up to to 80 percent of the muscles. Although the training that is performed with the rowing machine is mainly of the cardiovascular type and promotes fat loss, in reality the use of this tool activates practically all muscle groups, both in the upper and in the lower body. «By pulling the central dumbbell, we work all the upper muscles: those of the arms and the back area. At the same time, we tone the lower muscles through the flexion and extension movement of the knees to move the body back and forth. It is a complete workout that helps to keep practically the whole body in shape “, explains Daniel Martínez, fitness manager of the David Lloyd Club Turó, the prestigious sports center in Barcelona which has hosted, among other things, three editions of the annual tournament. women’s tennis WTA (Women Tennis Association).
What the rower is for
In addition to helping you lose weight and tone up, the rowing machine plays a number of important roles in the health of the body. In particular, he contributes to the activation of the circulatory system, increases physical endurance and muscle strength. Furthermore, rowing is a relatively light exercise, which can also be done by people who are overweight or no longer young.
Types of rowing machine
There are different types of rowing machines. The piston rowing machine provides for the presence of two levers that simulate the oars used in rowing boats. Holding them, the user performs the typical movement of the row. The resistance is provided by the pistons inserted under the saddle rail or on the connected levers. The most professional rowers, on the other hand, are wheel braked: air, water or electromagnetism. A rowing machine of this type is formed by an axis on which a trolley slides and by a fan to which a chain is attached which the user pulls towards himself by means of a handlebar.
How to train with the rowing machine
Paul Jara / CNX Studio
While a personal trainer can obviously prescribe different types of training with this machine (interval, set or timed), there are two basic ways to use the rowing machine in the gym.