Cardio — love it or hate it, but it’s one of the best ways to get in shape. You can go for a run or take a spin class to get your heart and blood pumping.
There are so many ways to exercise your heart and lungs.
However, with so many options, it can be tough to narrow it down. If you’re unsure which machine you should invest in to improve your cardiorespiratory system, read on!
Here’s everything you need to know about purchasing a rowing machine vs. treadmill.
Rowing Machines
What Muscles do Rowing Machines Work?
Rowing machines are known for working out the upper half of your body. Since rowing is classified as a ‘pulling’ motion, these muscles do the majority of the work.
Mainly, this cardio intensive machine works the latissimus dorsi, rhomboids, the biceps, and the deltoids.
However, unbeknownst to some, this cardio machine also trains the core as the abs are activated during the pulling portion of the movement as well.
If you really want to work up a sweat, brace your core to feel this sensation more intensely. Suck your belly button in towards your spine, and you can develop a killer six pack with time!
The rowing machine also works the muscles located at the front of the legs — the quadriceps. These muscles are fully engaged during the ‘push off’ portion of the exercise.
The Advantages
Aside from being a total body workout, there are also plenty of other advantages of the rowing machine vs. treadmill that will convince you of their versatility and intensity!
Low Impact
If you’re looking for a cardio machine that will not place excessive strain on your joints, a rowing machine is it!
Minimal pressure is placed on the joints and bones since you’re seated throughout the entire exercise.
This aspect makes the device suitable for seniors, or anyone recovering from a knee or hip injury.
However, if you need more intensity, you can easily add more resistance. Rowers are typically powered by a smooth flywheel and can be adjusted if you need more difficulty, so don’t brush this machine off either.
You are in complete control of your speed and tempo the entire time.
Furthermore, treadmills are more dangerous, as there is a higher chance you can overestimate your abilities, set a dangerous pace, and go flying off the machine when you can’t keep up!
Affordability
In terms of price, the rower wins compared to the treadmill since you can get a high-quality rower for an affordable price.
Sure, the best rowing machines can reach up to a grand — but you can also get a decent rowing machine for less than $400!
Most fitness retailers also offer payment plans so that you can buy your rower ASAP.
They Take Up Less Space
Another advantage of buying a rowing machine? They tend to take up less space than other cardio machine options.
The standard machine is approximately 8 feet long. However, they weigh substantially less than treadmills, making them easier to move around the house too.
For example, if you want to exercise while watching TV, simply slide out your rowing machine and park it in front of the screen and make your workout significantly more entertaining.
Most rowers also have wheels located at the bottom for easy transport.
Strengthen Your Upper Body
If you’re looking to strengthen and define your upper body, while simultaneously burning calories, a rower should be your number one pick.
You won’t have toned arms overnight. However, a rower does give you all the right tools for improving your physique since it provides:
- Strength building movement
- Fat blasting capabilities
You can’t spot reduce fat, which is why cardio alone will not give you that muscular and toned body you’re aiming for.
However, resistance training in tandem with cardio will reveal a stunning and strong set of muscles on your back and arms.
Anyone Can Use a Rower
Another great thing about a rowing machine is that you don’t have to be in good shape to use it. Anyone can learn in a matter of a few minutes and be on their way to better fitness.
The Disadvantages
The Noise
Rowing machines can be quite loud — even more so than treadmills!
The flywheel makes noise while you’re rowing, but the seat can also squeak while you’re performing the exercise.
Keep this in mind if you live with a lot of people who hate noise. However, if you live alone, a pair of headphones can knock out the commotion.
Injury
If you’re using bad form on your rower, this can lead to serious injuries.
For example, if you don’t keep your back straight, this can place too much stress on your lower back and cause painful spasms.
Additionally, if your head is craned over the handles, this can cause neck discomfort.
Make sure to keep your back straight and your head and neck in a neutral position to refrain from harming yourself.
Less Functional Fitness
A rower can whip you into great shape! However, it may not improve your functional fitness as well as a treadmill.
Functional fitness is defined as exercise that prepares you for everyday tasks — like walking, running, bending down, and jumping.
A treadmill has the rower beat in this category, as we tend to use our lower body muscles more often when going about the day.
What Kinds of Workouts Can You Do?
A rower does not offer a lot of versatility. The only way to change up your workout is to change the resistance of the flywheel.
You can perform both steady-state cardio and high-intensity interval training. You can also superset a minute of rowing with a dumbbell weighted exercise — like lunges or bicep curls.
Rowing Machine vs. Treadmill
So who can benefit from purchasing a rower? Anyone looking to combine strength training and cardio should invest in a rower.
However, since you’re seated the entire time, this may not help with your balance and stability.
Yet, older people looking to get in shape should definitely go with the rower, due to its low impact nature.
However, this is not to say that the machine isn’t challenging.
Lastly, anyone looking to create strong arms will find this machine to be crucial to their training. It’s a great substitute for the gym too, since it works the entire body!
Treadmills
A treadmill is a piece of exercise machinery that allows the user to go on a stationary walk, jog, or run.
You can change the speed and elevation for a new and challenging workout every time you hop on.
However, who can benefit from owning their own treadmill, and what are the pros and cons of investing in this piece of gear?
What Muscles do Treadmills Work?
Treadmills work the legs mainly — the complete opposite of a rower. However, let’s break this down into specifics.
Running, walking, and jogging all work the following muscles:
- the calves
- the quadriceps
- the hamstrings
- the glutes
Adjusting the elevation can target other areas of the legs.
For example, if you crank up the level of elevation, walking or jogging at an incline will target the gluteus maximus and calves even moreso.
The Advantages
There are several advantages of a treadmill!
They are found in most gyms, and not to mention; you can snag your own for a great price.
These have been around for ages, and while their design hasn’t changed throughout the years and it’s one of the most versatile pieces of workout equipment that you can buy.
There’s More of a Market for a Treadmill
Treadmills are simply more popular than rowers. You’re bound to find the perfect model that fits your price range, lifestyle, and activity level.
Not as Tedious
Treadmill workouts are not as monotonous, as you can easily change the speed and incline to add some variety to an otherwise dull workout.
Some treadmills even come with automatic programs installed into the hardware. The machine will change the settings to simulate running outdoors without you ever having to push a button.
Burn More Calories in a Shorter Amount of Time
Compared to a rower, you’ll burn more calories while on a treadmill since you’re standing up.
Standing while exercising will also improve your balance and stability, which are two aspects of fitness that often go neglected by newcomers to fitness.
They Take up a lot of Space
Treadmills may not serve anyone who lives in a smaller apartment. These machines are bulky, heavy, and can be nearly impossible to move around on your own.
Newer Treadmills Tend to be More Expensive
Since treadmills are dense pieces of machinery, they tend to be more expensive.
The pricier ones come complete with heart rate monitors, TV screens, and high powered fans to keep you cool.
These models can cost anywhere between $900 and $1,200 — some can even surpass that! However, there is truth in the sentiment ‘you get what you pay for.’
These treadmills can last up to 15 years, even with everyday use. The cheaper treadmills will not give you your money’s worth, as they don’t come with as many levels of speed or inclination.
Harder on the Joints
Bouncing up and down on the belt can wear down your knees with time.
Adding in a weight bearing exercise, like weighted squats or lunges, is one of the best ways to prevent your bones and joints from disintegrating with age.
However, someone who suffers from knee pain may not find this machine useful.
They are Heavy
Treadmills can weigh between 220 and 250 pounds, whereas a rowing machine only weighs around 95 pounds.
Once you set it in place in your home, you may not be able to move it around without some help.
What Kinds of Workouts Can You Do?
You can sprint on a treadmill, or go for a relaxing walk when you need a day to recover from the gym.
However, treadmills are also fantastic for high-intensity interval training too!
Better known as HIIT cardio, this form of exercise is known for its fat blasting capabilities; therefore, a treadmill is an astounding choice for dramatic weight loss.
HIIT cardio on a treadmill works by triggering your body’s excess post-oxygen consumption process.
In summation, your metabolism is raised hours after the exercise has been completed, turning your body into a fat burning machine.
Who Should Buy a Treadmill?
A treadmill is the best choice for someone looking to improve their functional fitness and lose weight.
Your endurance and stamina will spike, and you won’t find yourself feeling as tired throughout the day.
Playing with your children, going for a walk, or walking up a long set of stairs will feel like a breeze.
Additionally, if cardio bores you, a treadmill is the optimal choice! These machines can simulate running outdoors.
However, this machine is not suitable for someone prone to joint pain and discomfort.
If you’re in love with the idea of blasting fat and training your legs at the same time, be prepared to spend a pretty penny on a high-quality treadmill.
But this device is also for someone who wants to commit to fitness completely, so it’s worth the investment!
Final Words on Rowing Machine vs. Treadmill
Whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer, or just now dipping your toe in the water when it comes to fitness, know that cardio is essential.
It can help you lose a few extra pounds, strengthen your body, and improve your heart and lungs. Be smart when picking your machine of choice.
There are many options out there, so one can’t help but wonder — what’s the best choice when comparing the Rowing Machine vs. Treadmill?
The bottom line is that this is up to the user’s preference. Ask yourself what your fitness goals are.
Then, consider your space and budget.
After weighing this information and considering each’s pros and cons, you’re bound to make the best decision that will benefit your body, mind, and overall health.
