Is rowing considered a strength or cardio exercise?

vikesfanmb

I'm wondering if anyone can answer this question for me?

Is rowing (like on a rowing machine at the gym) considered a strength or cardio exercise? I am trying to focus on strength training right now to lessen my body fat percentage. But I've recently discovered the rowing machine at the gym and I *really* enjoy it.

If anyone can answer this for me, I would appreciate it!

mhotch

I just used it today. My HR stayed at about 132 for me the whole time. I used it as cardio.

spazofthedead

Rowing is pretty much cardio. If you want to focus on strength go lift weights. (I'm not saying don't row - go for it! - but that by itself isn't a proper strength training workout.)

And the harder you push it, the more cardiovascular it is. I remember my lungs feeling like they were going to explode after my first 2k race.

vikesfanmb

Thanks for the advice. I do lift weights as well for strength training . . but I've discovered the rowing machine recently and I just totally enjoy it! Tonight, my heart rate was anywhere between 135 and 145 during the entire time I was rowing so I was working it pretty intense.

spazofthedead

If you enjoy it that's all the more reason to do it. I hate that stupid machine. I spent way too many hours in college on one of those. After I graduated I couldn't even look at one for months.

Rabid_Hamster

I guess it'd depend on the length of time doing it. If you're there 30 minutes... then definitely cardio. If only a couple minutes for 3 cycles of reps, or there-abouts.. then just strength training.