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The Benefits of Rowing Exercise
By: Zhaneya Taylor
There seems to be a new trend blazing the streets of the fitness
world: rowing! But is it really new? No, it’s been around forever. We’re
just so used to seeing it collect dust in the corner of the gym while we
walk past to go to our cycling class. Yet recently, more and more people
are raving about rowing. Experienced cyclists are putting down the
handlebars and picking up the oars. Of course there are disadvantages to
everything in life, but somehow, there aren't many with rowing. The only
disadvantage that my tons of research has concluded is the possibility
of back pain, which can be prevented by good form. The most local rowing
spots,GoRow Studios in Hoboken, New Jersey, and Row House and CityRow in
New York City, New York, all practice good form, so back pain shouldn't
be a concern. Yet, the advantages of rowing are unprecedented:
1. Weight Loss
A workout on the rowing machine burns about 600
calories an hour, on average. Fitness specialist, Molly Parker says, “
On a stationary bike without arm movement, you’d need to ride about 78
minutes to equal a 60 minute workout on a rowing machine.” Alongside
rowing, eating a balanced, healthy diet is an effective way to achieve
your fitness goals.
2. Upper Body Workout
Rowing provides a great upper body workout. Rowers use
the trapezii in the upper back, lats in the lower back, and rhomboids in
the shoulders. A few benefits of a strong back and shoulders are better
posture and less back pain. Combined with the workout of your back and
shoulders, rowing provides a great workout for your abs, pecs, and
biceps, which helps develop a stronger core. Developing stronger hands
and wrists, because of the strong grip needed for the oars, are more
benefits of rowing, which is great for people that do other activities
such as yoga and rock climbing.
3. Lower Body Workout
Arguably one of the most rewarding benefits of rowing
is the lower body workout. Some people even argue the fact that rowing
is solely a lower body workout. The main muscles in the legs that are
used are the quads in the front upper thighs. Your glutes and calves are
not to forgotten because they feel the burn too! Benefit of a good lower
body workout is that working out your lower body actually burns calories
at a faster rate. Alongside muscle strength and tone, resistance
training on a rowing machine is a good way to maintain flexibility and
balance.
4. Low- Impact Cardio
For some people, high-impact workouts can carry more
risks than benefits. A rowing machine is an effective alternative for
those who can’t perform exercises such as running, hiking, walking, or
yoga. The rowing motion is natural and puts minimal stress on the
joints. Rowing is great for injury prevention and can strengthen knees
after surgery. Back strain is a constant concern in conversations about
rowing, but with the proper posture and form, you can minimize the risk.
About the Author
Zhaneya Taylor is a high school senior from Jersey City, New Jersey. She
specializes in fitness and fashion writing. Zhaneya is currently a
marketing intern for IronStrong Jewelry, a jewelry company based out of
Jersey City with the objective to create motivational jewelry for strong
women.
Site: ironstrongjewelry.com
Instagram: @ironstrongjewelry
Snapchat: @iron.strong
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