Health Benefits of Using the Rowing Machine: What Are the Pros and Cons?

More information on rowing

Is rowing good for your health? Is it a good sport for everyone? Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, here’s a list of the benefits and problematics you may encounter when rowing.

What is a rowing machine?

The rowing machine is a piece of fitness equipment with a metal rail and sliding seat. It reproduces rowing movements, with a propulsion phase (pull) and a recovery phase (return).

Invented in 1976, this popular piece of gym equipment combines strength training and fitness. Over 85% of the body’s muscles can be exercised on this machine, which has an almost total body effect. There are two main types of rowing machine: the Scandinavian rower and the center-pull rower.

• The Scandinavian rower (with double oars) has an oar on each side. It requires greater synchronization of the limbs and the ability to reproduce rowing movements quite similar to those of rowing. Generally unsuitable for tall people, the Scandinavian rower encourages targeted work and faster movements than the center-pull rower.
• The center-pull rower is easier to maneuver than the Scandinavian rower. It requires symmetrical rowing movements and promotes a full-body workout.

Health benefits and advantages

Rowing is an intensive sport with many benefits. Here are just a few of them:

• Rowing works the cardiovascular system, breathing and endurance
• Rowing trains virtually the entire body
• Rowing is accessible to all fitness levels
• Rowing burns a high number of calories

Disadvantages and drawbacks

The rowing machine has very few drawbacks. First of all, purchasing a rowing machine can be quite costly (between 200 and 1500 euros). Secondly, along with the treadmill, the rowing machine is one of the most cumbersome pieces of equipment. It’s best to use it indoors if you’re short of space. Finally, although the rowing machine is accessible to all, it must be used properly. In fact, neglecting adjustment instructions and adopting the wrong position can expose you to the risk of injury. Finally, if you suffer from back problems, it’s best to avoid this machine.