A rowing machine allows you to exercise like you would if you were rowing a boat. The same motions are involved, and rowing is an excellent exercise according to the United States Sports Academy. A rowing machine has a sliding seat, a handle which you pull and a place for you to place your feet. When operating the machine, you simulate the boat rowing motions, which are considered very effective for people with back issues, since the exercise does not strain the back or joints. A rowing machine workout can benefit you in several ways, some of which are explained here.

Supplements your weight loss plan

Rowing is actually a very intensive cardiovascular exercise and burns a lot of calories. An intensive 15-minute session can burn over 125 calories and a person weighing 200lb can burn around 700 calories in an hour of rowing. If incorporated in your daily workout regime, this exercise can supplement your weight loss program and help you shed fat.

Improves your endurance

Since it is a cardiovascular exercise, rowing for long sessions can improve your heart’s functioning and burn up the carbs you eat in order to fuel your body. It is recommended that you set the machine to low resistance and perform the exercise at high speed to reach an aerobic state, which will improve your breathing, heart and lung functions along with boosting your circulation system. Cardio exercises improve your ability to perform tasks like climbing stairs, walking and running.

Tones your muscles

A rowing workout targets all muscle groups in your body and tones them evenly without stressing the joints and back. The exercise works your upper body muscles (shoulders and arms), lower body muscles (legs and hips) and your trunk, every time you perform a stroke. Rowing machines allow users to set the resistance levels according to their preferences in order to switch between endurance building and muscle building.

Convenient stress reduction

Most rowing machines are very portable and can be easily set up at home. You don’t have to pay gym fees or leave the comfort of your living room in order to get a good workout. Cardiovascular workouts have also been observed to release high amounts of endorphins, which are responsible for the feeling of satisfaction you get after working out. Moreover, compared to other cardiovascular exercises, such as skipping and jogging, rowing is low-impact, and does not stress your bones and joints.