The Proper Way To Use A Rowing Machine For Body Benefit

By Chris Channing
Rowing machines are not as scary as they look, in fact they are rather simple and user friendly. Rowing machines are designed to be high impact, yet easy on your back and other delicate bones and muscles. While rowing does seem easy, its not all cake and ice cream. It is also a type of cardio exercise that allows you to really get a grip on contractions and proper form.

Rowing machines are specially designed to be low impact in your bones and joints, while maintaining a high enough impact to give your entire body a cardio workout that is both heart healthy, and feels good. It is important to know that those with very weak backs and improper stretching techniques will end up damaging their bodies with a rowing machine. It is advisable for you to stretch for at least 10 minutes, and strengthen your back prior to using a rowing machine cardio regimen.

Rowing machines are composed of a seat, a foot rest, and handle that you pull on, and a rotator that keeps everything moving in a fluid motion. The handle is pulled, and you make a thrusting motion with your hips. Some people find it difficult to pull heavier weights, or any weight at all. You get used to this and it gets much easier.

While there are risks and dangers associated with rowing machine usage, the benefits are far greater. Many people would benefit from adding this routine to their exercise regimen. Rowing will strengthen all of your limbs including your arms, abdominal section, heart, legs, and everything else! It literally works all of your muscle groups in one fluid motion back and forth.

While the rowing machine looks easy enough, it takes a lot of training to get used to using a proper formation. Never slouch, drop your head, bend unnaturally, or strain your body too hard. Avoid using your neck for extra pushing, and never use your back when it is not supposed to be used.

Before advancing onto a rowing machine, spend some time stretching and warming your muscles. A quick 5 minute run can warm you up, as well as a bit of yoga moves for stretching purposes. Align your body in a loose, yet straight form, and use your hips and legs to move forward. Your back should never do any of the work that is involved with a rowing machine.

Closing Comments

Rowing machine exercise is highly effective, beneficial, and somewhat easy to master. Remember to form proper techniques so that you can benefit from it without hurting your body.