Not Sure Which Rowing Machine To Purchase?

The Rowing machine is used to simulate the action of watercraft rowing; they not only work the major muscle groups, but provide excellent cardiovascular exercise. Rowing machines are so popular because they:

• offer low impact exercise.
• are suitable for almost all ages and abilities.
• can be used for endurance and sprint training.
• have low maintenance, keeping costs down.
• are small in size, with some models able to store upright.
• are an effective tool for fat loss.
• generally do not require a power source.
 

I have outlined a few essential tips to bear in mind when purchasing a rowing machine.

What is your budget?

Rowing machines vary in price enormously depending on the features and design. A high end rowing machine can cost upwards of £1000, although not everyone can or wants to spend £1000 on a rowing machine! As with most exercise equipment you get what you pay for, basic rowing machines start from £299. Many of the rowing machines sold nowadays have features found on commercial models, and all are built to last for years. Generally with more expensive rowing machines, you will find more stable, robust machines, manufactured from the highest grade materials.

How much space do you have?

When purchasing a rowing machine it is always best to measure the space in which you intend the rowing machine to live, you do not want to find that it does not fit in your desired space once it has been delivered! Mot websites display all the dimensions of the equipment they sell on the product details page

Always check what warranty comes with the rowing machine?

Most of the rowing machines sold nowadays come with a minimum 1 year parts and 1 year labour warranty, and often longer. I would recommend looking for a branded model which has an on-site warranty. You do not want to have a rowing machine which you are liable to send back to the supplier if it has a fault.

What are programmes and how do they benefit me?

Many of the rowing machines sold nowadays come with variable and interval programmes, including heart rate controlled programmes (when using the heart rate strap). In the case of the Tunturi models, these can be controlled from the handlebar. Having more programmes is often a necessary aid to keep your commitment to your goals…

How is the resistance level adjustable?

With many cheaper rowing machines, the resistance is provided by an electro-magnet, whilst these provide excellent training, machines using air or water resistance (such as the WaterRower range) will provide a smoother action. Many experienced rowers find the action of the WaterRower the closest to boat rowing. Although the electro magnetic resistance rowing machines do have a different action, they often benefit from features such as being foldable and can sometimes be used for strength training.

I hope this rowing machine purchase guide has been helpful and if you’re looking for an rowing machine then please visit http://www.exerciseequipment.co.uk

Important to Buy the Best Rowing Machine

When you are looking for rowing machines in a store or online its important to buy the best machine for you on the market. Many machines are overpriced for your needs and you may get a machine that is overly complicated or doesn’t give you the effective workout you need.

Remember some rowing machines can be part of a multistation gym and be designed to perform other activities. This makes the rowing machine a part of a whole station and therefore you may lose some performance in the machine. Sometimes the rowing machines will have a jerky sudden movement and won’t give you that even glide that good rowing machines are known for.

When looking at a machine test it out first. If you are planning on buying from the internet or looking on a rowing machines reviews website go to a store and see if they have the model you are looking for and just test it out. Get an idea for its feel and ‘glide.’ You should make sure that the machine accommodates your height and you can reach the rowing bars.

Also make sure that you can read the electronic display with relative ease. You should be able to read the display easily and the numbers should be large enough to not strain your eyes unnecessarily. Also ask to have them explained by the salesman or check to see if it comes with a good instruction manuals. You shouldn’t be using a rowing machine that’s as hard to program as the microwave timer.

When testing out rowing machines listen for any noises that you may find annoying while exercising. A good rowing machine should be quiet, smooth and sturdy. If you hear strange noises from the machine it can mean that it isn’t properly put together or will even be able to support you will you exercise.

Read more rowing machines articles and rowing machines reviews news or visit our rowing machines site

Rowing Machine vs Elliptical

Years ago (c. 1983) before I joined a gym, I tried various exercise programs to keep fit. With my meager budget at the time, my options were rather limited. I tried running at the high school track since that was a cost-free activity. I forced myself out on to the hot asphalt track for a couple of weeks one summer, but eventually gave up because it was too monotonous and my knees started getting sore from the constant pounding.

I then decided to invest in a Precor rowing machine, which I purchased from a local sporting goods store. It set me back about $235, but I felt it was worth it since I desperately wanted to get in shape. Rowing machines were also quite the rage back then and I wanted to get in on the action too!

I used the Precor rower religiously for a while. After all, I had sunk a good portion of my savings into it! The machine itself was rather simply constructed and as a result, there wasn’t much that could malfunction or break on it.

Of course it did squeak like the Dickens and also left ugly black scuffmarks on my carpet. I eventually put a piece of scrap carpet under it to protect my carpet. I also got blisters on my hands from the “oars” and eventually started wearing my winter gloves to protect my hands.

Now fast forward to the 21st century. Rowing machines have really come a very long way since my primitive Precor machine! They use some of the very same technologies that are also employed in the top-of-the-line elliptical trainers. Features found on higher end ellipticals are also found on many rowers today such as magnetic resistance systems that are smooth and quiet. They also have heart rate monitors either built in to the handle grips or via wireless chest straps and a Polar interface. And of course, they have consoles that display distance, time, and calories burned just like most elliptical trainers.

So which is the better piece of fitness equipment? Let’s take a look at some criteria that should be used when evaluating any piece of exercise equipment:

*Safety – rowing machines are relatively safe, but care must be used in learning the proper exercise form. Unfortunately, many people don’t use proper form when using a rowing machine and put undue stress on their lower backs. Like an elliptical trainer, a rowing machine is low impact, but since the legs are flexed and extended, this puts stress on the knees, which could be uncomfortable for people with knee problems.

*Ease of use – as with safety, learning the proper use of a rowing machine is vital. Unlike an elliptical trainer, where its use is fairly intuitive, a rower requires proper instruction and practice in its use. There is more coordination required between the lower and upper body when using a rower. However, this shouldn’t deter you from using a rowing machine. Just take the time to ask for instruction from a qualified staff member or trainer at your health club or gym.

*Quality of workout – a rowing machine can provide a great cardio-vascular workout. It helps to monitor you heart rate and stay within the appropriate target zone for your age, condition, and training objective. As with an elliptical trainer, the involvement of both the upper and lower body can provide all around muscle toning.

*Affordability – rowing machines parallel elliptical trainers in price range. Like ellipticals, they span the gamut from cheap models to top-end, commercial grade units costing several thousand dollars. And like ellipticals, you typically get what you pay for. So avoid the cheap stuff unless you want the grief and aggravation that goes along with it!

Rowing machines and elliptical trainers are both very worthy pieces of exercise equipment. If you have the luxury, then why not use both? Cross training by switching up between the rowing machine and elliptical trainer will keep your body challenged while keeping your workouts fresh and enjoyable.

And what about that Precor rowing machine I bought back in 1983? It’s still sitting in my storage closet. And what about Precor? Well, they went on to invent the first elliptical trainer 12 years later in 1995.

Rich Rojas writes unbiased Elliptical Trainer Reviews and articles on health and fitness. Subscribe to the EllipticalHome.com newsletter and receive a Free 4-Day minicourse on Getting Started With Elliptical Training.

Rowing Machine Routines

Whenever you do some exercises you only have one aim: it is either you lose weight or gain some pounds. Either way, the bottom line is to get healthy. With more and more people getting conscious about their health, fitness, and body, the need for fitness exercises are continuously growing. And the more effective the exercise is, the more popular it is to people. Natural exercises like jogging and running are some of the more popular exercises that do great things to your body. Since these exercises involve every muscle you need to develop, they are very effective in improving the heart that improves the health condition of the person. However, for some, these activities are not very appealing because doing such, whether indoor or outdoor, would mean hurting some joints and applying pressure on the heels, the legs, and even in the head.

As an alternative, most people choose rowing. Like running, rowing makes every muscle moving and functioning that increases the amount of body activity. And since it involves all the muscles needed to work, rowing can be classified as a total body workout. However, rowing does not come in handy. To do this, you need to have a boat, paddle, lake or river, and a group of friends who also like the sport. And so, when there are many requirements involved just to make one exercise, you might tend to seek for another exercise.

But before considering such idea, you have to try using rowing machine first. Rowing machines are made to replicate the actual exercise made on water. Like the actual rowing, exercising on a rowing machine makes the upper and lower body to work. And the good thing about this is that you can work you legs, arms, shins, shoulders, and lower back without inflicting any impact on the joints.

The following might be helpful to develop your aerobic routines on a rowing machine:

Trying out different rowing machines.

There are four general types of rowing machines: the hydraulic resistance machine, air resistance machine, magnetic resistance machine, and the water resistance machine. Each has different nature but with the same aim of providing total body work out. For instance, the air rowing machine sources its resistance through a fan. The intensity of the work out depends on how fast you row.

Using proper rowing techniques.

Learning how to row is as easy as riding a bicycle machine. All you have to do is to pull the handle in your direction while sliding your seat by pushing your legs. But as easy as it may sound, it might take a while to realize whether you are properly doing the right rowing technique. One big tip to share is to sit properly on the rowing machine while maintaining the proper posture every time you take the stroke. If you purpose is to improve your strength and stamina, much harder intensity of rowing is needed. But overworking will not do the job if you are on the high intensity. This is the rule: if you are working on light intensity, you can row at your aerobic phase and if you are rowing on a much heavier intensity, do it slowly.

Rowing with the right resistance.

The strength of your rowing will determine the effect of your exercise on your body. The harder you row means you can tone and strengthen your muscles while rowing for long hours increases your stamina. Make sure though you are able to keep up with the type of rowing resistance you are using.

Robert Thatcher is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides rowing machine resources on http://www.your-rowing-machine.info

Do You Make These Mistakes When Using A Rowing Machine?

Just like working out with any other exercise equipment, the rowing machine technique involves some skill, and learning how to row will take some time to master. If you’re new to indoor rowing, the rowing motion may seem unnatural and difficult to learn, and you’ll probably make mistakes as you row. It’s important to learn how to use a rowing machine properly, because you’ll experience immediate benefits from the exercise, reduce your chances of unnecessary injuries, and you’re bound to enjoy working out with an indoor rower if you’re doing it right in the first place!

The rowing motion should appear to a smooth, rhythmic action when it’s performed properly, however, errors in the rowing technique can occur during the motion that can place you under needless risk of injury. Here are 3 common rowing mistakes, and how to correct them:

Mistake 1: Leaning Back Too Much at the Finish of the Rowing Technique

This happens when you’re rowing on an indoor rower and your body leans too far back at the end of the row (with your legs extended and the handle of the rowing machine pulled towards your body). It will appear as though your back is straightening itself out.

To correct this, simply focus on keeping an upright posture, leaning back slightly so your shoulders are just behind your pelvis at the end of the rowing motion.

Mistake 2: Hunched Over at the Beginning of the Rowing Motion

Being hunched right before you pull the handle of the rowing machine can make you susceptible to back injuries. In this position, your arms are extended, your back is curled forward, and your head is looking down, making it appear that you’re trying to curl up into a ball.

By keeping your head up while looking forward, and focusing more on keeping a strong, upright posture can correct this mistake.

Mistake 3: Hunched Over at the End of the Row

This rowing technique mistake tends to happen if you’re already in a hunched position at the beginning of the motion (see mistake 2). Your body and will be curled forward at the end of the row while your arms and the handle of the rowing machine is pulled toward your body. Again, the hunched position during any points of the rowing stroke can make the user susceptible to back injuries.

The key to fixing the hunched over position is posture. Your sitting up straight, shoulders pulled back, while keeping your head up and eyes looking forward during the end of the rowing technique will can correct this problem.

John Phung is certified personal trainer and contributor for http://www.All-Rowing-Machines.com, providing easy to understand information about exercise rowing machines such as the Concept2 rower.