Is the rowing machine good for workouts? Yes, in short. If you've ever taken a 2 km time trial, you'll know that it's likely to leave you lying on your back with your heart pounding and lungs heaving.

Explaining why the best rowing machines provide such a comprehensive workout is not something that can be addressed with a single word answer.

We spoke with the chair of the Indoor Rowing Commission and member of the World Rowing Council to find out why he thinks rowing machines are turning treadmills. He describes the many health benefits of these machines, and explains why he thinks they can be beat when it comes to all-inclusive cardio kit.

If you're looking for a challenging workout and you've learned how to use a rowing machine, then all you have to do is sit down and start rowing.

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Why is the rowing machine a good workout?

Woman using a Concept2 rowing machine

(Image credit: Concept2)

There are many benefits to rowing machine. While other endurance exercises like running and cycling are less efficient, rowing machines recruit muscles in your arms, back, shoulders, chest, forearms and core for a more efficient exercise session.

The rowing machine works all major muscle groups, which makes it really efficient, according to Ljubicic.

An article published by the Harvard Medical School states that a person with a weight of 70-75 lbs would burn more calories on an elliptical trainer than on a static bike. An intense half-an-hour on a rowing machine topped both figures with 389 calories burned.

A rowing machine can help build strength and endurance. The resistance provided by each stroke will tax your muscles. By maintaining a consistent effort over time, you can improve the efficiency of your respiratory system.

The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend that people take part in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise each week, with positive impacts including a lower risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, better sleep and improved quality of life.

What is the best exercise equipment for home use?

Finding the best exercise equipment for home use will depend on your fitness goals, if you are looking to buy a new piece of fitness kit. The best treadmills are likely to be favored by a competitive runner.

If you want to improve your endurance or body recomposition, we would recommend a rowing machine.

Ljubicic says it is really effective if you are looking to get fit or lose weight.

I have been using one to get rid of my bulge and it is burning away with just 20 minutes of exercise a day. Getting some exercise in a short period is hard, so you want something that is efficient and effective. I think the rowing machine is the best piece of exercise equipment because it provides that.

Other popular aerobic activities such as running and biking are not impacted by rowing machines. Your knee and ankle joints are put under less stress than when walking or running due to the fact that it is a seated exercise method.

  • Read more: What are the different types of rowing machine

A group of women using rowing machines

(Image credit: Getty Images)

What to look for when buying a rowing machine

If this has convinced you that rowers are capable of providing a good workout, and you're in the market for a machine, there are a few things you should know. There are three main types of rowing machine that use air, water and magnetic resistance.

Air is the most popular type of rower and can be found in gyms and boathouses around the world. They are one of the best value for money and provide a smooth rowing experience.

Water rowers claim to provide a more realistic on-water rowing experience than their air and magnetic counterparts. The smooth stroke action reduces any potential stress on your joints, and some people enjoy the sound of the water whooshing within the tank.

Magnetic neighbours tend to be the quietest of the bunch so you can enjoy an early hours or late night workout without being bothered. They are small and can be folded up when not in use, making them a good option for people with limited space.

Before you buy a rower, you should consider a number of factors including comfort, feel and budget.

Ljubicic suggests testing machines to find one that is comfortable to work on.

A good quality machine replicates the feeling of rowing on the water, which is smooth and rhythmical, and should not feel heavy when you push. Concept2, WaterRower, Ergatta, Hydrow, RP3 and Technogym are some of the great machines on the market.

There are references.

Harvard Health. The people of three different weights burned calories in 30 minutes. April 29, 2022.

The health.gov has physical activity guidelines for Americans. The year 2021. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. April 29, 2022.