For the fitness fanatic, each and every exercise that is undertaken is carefully considered. Will it be enjoyable? Will it help you reach your goals – be it muscle gains or weight loss? Will it be safe? The same is true for gym owners. They must ask themselves if their clients will use the machine and if they have room for it within their space.
When it comes to cardio workouts, the treadmill has long reigned supreme. However, the rowing machine is fast becoming a popular alternative. If you’re wondering exercise is better for you, then you’ve come to the right place!
Which offers the better cardio workout?
When looking for an effective weight loss program, people naturally turn to cardio exercises that burn high amounts of calories in short spaces of time. Both the treadmill and the rowing machine offer intense cardio workouts, that (among other things) strengthen the heart and lungs, burn calories, promotes weight loss, and reduces stress and increase confidence! When it comes to burning calories, running with a steep incline is the way to go.
However, if you’re looking for the most effective of the two, you may be surprised to learn that the rower is the winner! Not only do you get an effective upper body workout, but your whole body is actually engaged throughout the movements. Building muscle and burning calories, the rowing machine is the ideal choice for overall weight loss.
Which offers a safer workout for your body?
For many, the exercise they choose aren’t just dictated by results, but by which will cause less harm in the long run. Unfortunately, running on the treadmill is considered a weight bearing exercise, as you’re supporting your whole body whilst you run. This can cause major damage to your knees, ankles and hips, no matter how fit you are! The rower, on the other hand, does not require you to support your body weight, and is often used following surgery or injury.
Which offers better value for money?
When it comes to cost, both the treadmill and rowing machine will set you back a similar amount, regardless of whether you’re looking at high-end or budget models. If you’re looking for an effective calorie burning exercise that will work the whole body – and lead to weight loss – then it is clear that the rowing machine does offer more bang for your buck. However, it is worth noting that you can run outside for free!
This article has made it overwhelmingly clear that the rowing machine may well be the better machine for whole host of reasons. Reigning supreme in weight loss, it offers the same incredibly effective cardio workout as the treadmill, without putting excessive pressure on the joints. Before making any purchases however, we recommend heading to your local gym and trying them out for yourself – it’s incredibly important that you enjoy the exercises you’re undertaking! Then, speak with the team at Xtreme for our expert advice and opinions. We stock a huge range of quality commercial strength equipment, so you can be confident we have what you need to reach your goals.