As a newbie, choosing the right workout routine that works for you can be an uphill task. As a result, you may end up making simple mistakes that may not help you reach your fitness goals or worse get you injured.
Working on a rowing machine is one of the simplest but most effective work out machines to start from. Apart from that, a rowing machine works up the entire body giving you your desired results quicker.
In this article, we shall state and discuss the benefits, how to use a rowing machine appropriately and which muscles are targeted when you are rowing.
Benefits of Using A Rowing Machine
1. Rowing machines are easier and safer to use.
Rowing machines are one of the safest work out machines available. It is a low impact workout which is good for newbies and people with joint problems.
Rowing machines are easier to use. Thus lowering your chances of making mistakes while working out, making it easy to reach your fitness goals easier and faster.
2. A rowing machine provides both cardio and strength training.
A good workout routine should always include a cardiovascular workout. Rowing works up your cardiovascular system improving your energy levels.
When on a rowing machine muscles are targeted to increase their power. Growing your muscles and improving your full body strength. Allowing you to go on with your daily chores with ease.
3. Rowing burns a lot of calories.
You can burn over 300 calories every thirty minutes you work out on a rowing machine. This helps in burning excess fat and converting them into muscles. Allowing you to lose weight and have well-toned muscles in your upper and lower body.
4. Rowing is an excellent full body work out.
While rowing your lower and upper bodies are worked up. Your shoulders, core, legs, and even the back are also engaged while working out. This strengthens and helps to tone your muscles giving you a physical look to be desired.
5. It helps you build a lot of endurance.
Having endurance means that your energy levels are up and you can engage in an activity for longer without getting tired quickly. Stamina is vital if you are to participate in your daily activities comfortably.
Read more: Best Recumbent Bike Workout Machine for Lower Back Pain
How to Use A Rowing Machine Well
Just like any other ordinary fitness routines, people are prone to making mistakes, and rowing is no exception. Even though the consequences of rowing the wrong way cannot be felt immediately, they are still severe.
Simple mistakes such as not keeping your back straight or moving your arms alone are some of the common mistakes people make while rowing. Below we have explained how to row correctly to ensure that you get the right results faster when using the rowing machines.
1. The first step is to ensure that your legs are appropriately secured on the feet straps. Ensure that your legs are firm on the footplate and that you are comfortable before you start working out.
2. Once your legs are set, grasp the handlebars with both hands and get into the rowing position. With your back straight fold your knees until your body is close to the footplate.
3. Once you are ready, slowly move your feet back until they are straight. Then slowly push back the handlebars until you lean back at an angle of 45 degrees.
4. Repeat this for several reps while your back is straight.
Muscles That Are Built When Rowing on A Rowing Machine
Rowing machines have been known to build and increase power in your muscles. Below is a list of eight primary muscles that are targeted when rowing.
1. The deltoids muscles
Deltoids are muscles that cover the shoulders and helps the arms move. When rowing this part of the arm regularly moves hence strengthening the shoulders
2. Tricep and biceps.
Both of these muscles are located on the upper arm just below the deltoids muscles. These muscle groups help you do a lot of things which include pushing, lifting or pulling. A rowing machine works them hence strengthening and toning your arm muscles leaving strong and looking good.
3. Core muscles
Have you always wanted a flat stomach? Well working out on a rowing machine can help you reach that goal. Moving back and forth when rowing tones your core muscles leaving you with a flat stomach.
4. Rhomboids and the erector spinae muscles
Having a strong back makes you powerful and even less prone to injuries. While rowing your back muscles especially the rhomboids, which are located on your upper back, and the erector spinae group of muscles are strengthened.
5. The Hamstring
The hamstring muscle is located behind your thighs. They help in the movement of the legs. As you row, these muscles move regularly. Strengthening them keeping you strong and less prone to injuries.6. The glutes.
Glute muscles have a lot of importance to us. They help in providing the much-needed stability for the upper body. Apart from that having strong glute muscles help in preventing back and knee pains.
7. Quadriceps
The quadriceps muscles join the knee and the hip joints. It is made up of a group of four muscles. They help in making the lower body firm and strong.
8. The Gastrocnemius
The gastrocnemius muscles are located at the back of the lower leg. Its primary function is to help in the movement of the legs. Besides that gastrocnemius helps in pushing blood from the lower body to the heart.
In conclusion
To ensure that you get good results, ensure that you work out with intensity, eat well and drink plenty of water.
