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I used the Precor rower religiously
for a while. After all, I had sunk a good portion of my savings into it!
The machine itself was rather simply constructed and as a result, there
wasn't much that could malfunction or break on it.
Of course it did squeak like the Dickens
and also left ugly black scuffmarks on my carpet. I eventually put a
piece of scrap carpet under it to protect my carpet. I also got blisters
on my hands from the "oars" and eventually started wearing my winter
gloves to protect my hands.
Tip!
Just like working out with any other exercise equipment, the rowing
machine technique involves some skill, and learning how to row will
take some time to master. If you're new to indoor rowing, the rowing
motion may seem unnatural and difficult to learn, and you'll probably
make mistakes as you row.
Now fast forward to the 21st century.
Rowing machines have really come a very long way
since my primitive Precor machine! They use some of the very same
technologies that are also employed in the top-of-the-line elliptical
trainers. Features found on higher end ellipticals are also found
on many rowers today such as magnetic resistance systems that are smooth
and quiet. They also have heart rate monitors either built in to the
handle grips or via wireless chest straps and a Polar interface. And of
course, they have consoles that display distance, time, and calories
burned just like most elliptical trainers.
So which is the better piece of fitness
equipment? Let's take a look at some criteria that should be used when
evaluating any piece of exercise equipment:
*Safety -
rowing machines are relatively safe, but care must be
used in learning the proper exercise form. Unfortunately, many people
don't use proper form when using a rowing machine and put undue stress
on their lower backs. Like an elliptical trainer, a rowing
machine is low impact, but since the legs are flexed and extended,
this puts stress on the knees, which could be uncomfortable for people
with knee problems.
*Ease of use - as with safety, learning
the proper use of a rowing machine is vital. Unlike an elliptical
trainer, where its use is fairly intuitive, a rower requires proper
instruction and practice in its use. There is more coordination required
between the lower and upper body when using a rower. However, this
shouldn't deter you from using a rowing machine. Just take the time to
ask for instruction from a qualified staff member or trainer at your
health club or gym.
*Quality of workout - a
rowing machine can provide a
great cardio-vascular workout. It helps to monitor you heart rate and
stay within the appropriate target zone for your age, condition, and
training objective. As with an elliptical trainer, the involvement of
both the upper and lower body can provide all around muscle toning.
*Affordability - rowing machines
parallel elliptical trainers in price range. Like ellipticals, they span
the gamut from cheap models to top-end, commercial grade units costing
several thousand dollars. And like ellipticals, you typically get what
you pay for. So avoid the cheap stuff unless you want the grief and
aggravation that goes along with it!
Rowing machines and
elliptical trainers are both very worthy pieces of exercise equipment.
If you have the luxury, then why not
use both? Cross training by switching up between the rowing machine
and elliptical trainer will keep your body challenged while keeping
your workouts fresh and enjoyable.
And what about that Precor rowing
machine I bought back in 1983? It's still sitting in my storage closet.
And what about Precor? Well, they went on to invent the first elliptical
trainer 12 years later in 1995. |
