Ever wondered which is best between a rowing machine vs a elliptical?
It’s clear that both a rowing machine or elliptical are great machines to add to your home gym; however, for cost and space reasons, most people prefer to choose one. Indoor cardio can be an effective way to build strength and lose weight, as cardio is known for torching calories by increasing your heart rate.
The elliptical machine, otherwise known as a cross-trainer, allows fitness enthusiasts to walk, run, or stair climb without adding unnecessary pressure to their joints. It is an upright machine, and it was initially designed for aerobic and cardiovascular workouts.
As for the rowing machine, this unique cardio equipment simulates the actions you would perform if rowing in a boat on the water. Indoor rowing machines are safe on joints as it is a low-impact activity and target many of your muscle groups at once.
While both cardio machines can boost your metabolism and strengthen your body, you might only have room for one in your home or apartment. For this reason, we’ve compiled everything you need to know to weigh the pros and cons of a rowing machine vs. elliptical.
If one thing is sure, either of these machines will help you along your weight loss journey, as any movement can burn calories. Even though you’ll shed inches with the regular use of either device, in combination with a healthy diet, one of them provides a workout that targets more areas of the body.
During an hour’s workout, jogging on an elliptical machine at a moderate pace can burn around 500 calories, whereas on a rowing machine, people tend to burn 500 to 1000. So if you’re looking to burn fat, a high quality rowing machine can help you achieve this goal quicker than an elliptical. This is because the rowing machine activates more of your muscles at once, leading to higher calorie burn and all-over toning.
What’s great about these low-impact cardio machines is that they target more muscles than high-impact running on a treadmill. People tend to prioritise high-impact activity over low-impact activity as they think it is more effective, but this is not the case.
If you are a runner though and enjoy pure impact running, you will find that a rower is also a great machine for runners due to the combination of muscles worked.
A rowing machine targets the hamstrings, upper back muscles, glutes, and even abdominal muscles, as these should be engaged to ensure proper posture. As for the elliptical, it primarily engages the calves, deltoids, and quads. So if you’re looking to build muscle on your entire body and not just your lower half, the rowing machine is a better option.
The determining factor for many people when choosing between a rowing machine and an elliptical is price. While you can get a cheap elliptical machine, it doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles required to achieve optimal results. For a high-quality, reliable elliptical, most people spend around $1,500 to $3,000. These machines include guided workouts, offer versatile movement options, and are sturdy. There is something slightly terrifying about going all out on an elliptical that doesn’t feel well made.
For the newest, most innovative models, stationary rowing machines usually cost around $1,000 to $2,000. These rowing machines also feature guided workouts that can target several muscles while ensuring you’re safely secured. Some rowing machines with included workouts even come with HIIT workouts for example that can be done off the machine.
For those trying to create a home gym on a budget, the rowing machine makes the best addition for aerobic and cardiovascular exercise.
Unlike running on a treadmill or taking an aerobic step class, exercising on a rowing machine or elliptical won’t put too much stress on your joints. Low-impact activity is essential for people with back problems, arthritis, or recovering from an injury.
Since rowing is done in a seated position, it’s not adding unnecessary pressure on your knees or back. Therefore, low-impact exercise can give your joints a much-needed break without compromising calorie burn or building strength.
Ellipticals are popular among those who used to be runners or joggers but can’t anymore due to their joints or an injury. Like rowing, it is much more gentle than running, kettlebell workouts, or Crossfit.
Choosing a low-impact cardio machine can keep you from experiencing any stiffness or bothersome joint pain.
Rowing is an excellent full-body workout that builds muscle, burns calories, strengthens, and supercharges your conditioning. The most notable benefits are that it burns an impressive amount of calories, builds lean muscle mass, and engages most of your muscles, even your abs. This means you won’t have to put your body through a weekly workout with crunches and planks. Like some cardiovascular machines, rowing doesn’t just slim your body out by burning calories—it also shapes your muscles. A rowing machine is also safe for people of all shapes, sizes, and experience levels.
As for the cons of a rowing machine, they aren’t great for people with lower back injuries, as when your body becomes fatigued, you might not maintain the proper posture. On any type of machine, not using the recommended posture can lead to injury. Another possible negative of a rowing machine is that it’s easy to push yourself too far, and overtraining can lead to injury.
On the other hand, elliptical machines also provide an ideal cardiovascular, strength, and endurance workout. Exercising on an elliptical is safe for your joints and burns plenty of calories. However, the motion is monotonous and can feel very unnatural to some people. It also neglects to target the upper body and is considered a better option for those simply looking to build strength in their legs.
While the elliptical and rowing machines provide users with a sweaty, heart-pumping workout, rowing works your entire body and not just your lower half. Rowing machines are also less expensive and will ensure that your arms are getting toned, like the rest of your body.
Remember that not all rowers are made equal when shopping for a rowing machine. Choosing a rowing machine with many features can help you reap all the benefits without ever getting bored. Before purchasing your rowing machine, consider your fitness goals and needs, as some are best for cardio and others for strength training.
