Rowing machine or treadmill?

tenbymarch
tenbymarch Posts: 2
edited November 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
I've been having a hard time getting back into running on the treadmill (or outside for that matter) and am curious about the rowing machine. Have any of you had any success with rowing? Could I row for a full work out, or is it best accompanied with running or weights?

I know a good 40 minute run is a great work out, but I'm not sure if rowing can replace it easily. I'd like to hear your thoughts.

Replies

  • lishie_rebooted
    lishie_rebooted Posts: 2,973 Member
    Have you ever used an ergometer?
  • Noelv1976
    Noelv1976 Posts: 18,948 Member
    Rowing is tough as well, requires lots of squatting when using proper forms. I mix up the rower with running. I'm more of a runner so I use the rower between my run days.
  • AllanMisner
    AllanMisner Posts: 4,140 Member
    Rowing (ergometer) is an awesome workout! It is also an exercise that you can improve by learning good form in addition to getting more fit. Give it a shot.
  • CrabNebula
    CrabNebula Posts: 1,119 Member
    Rowing sucks, but it so worth it. I do 15-20km a week. I hate every minute of it. It takes a lot of concentration to keep form and it is exhausting. But it has tightened up my middle and melted away inches in ways other methods couldn't. It is magic.

    Treadmill isn't bad either though. I get a great workout with the incline setting turned up between 8-11%.
  • Tortitudekitty
    Tortitudekitty Posts: 67 Member
    I do both...but not on the same day! I like to mix things up so my body doesn't get in too much of a rut on the treadmill which can lead to less gains.
    I also like to HIIT on occasion with the rower which is mega, thank god for the little seat afterwards, lol!

    Typically on the rower I like to do 4000m with the damper on around 6 and pretend I'm flying along in a skiff rather than a big ol' dinghy!
    If you have access to a Concept2 rower, have a look at their website for loads of tips and correct rowing technique for optimum results. B)
  • Capt_Apollo
    Capt_Apollo Posts: 9,026 Member
    i rowed crew in college, and the indoor workouts on the erg sucked. but they were great full body work outs.

    if you really think it's something you'll stick with, go for it. currently, i have an indoor bike trainer, and find that i never miss a work out because i always have the option to exercise indoors. i put on some tv and get my training in.
  • 999tigger
    999tigger Posts: 5,235 Member
    Whichever one you enjoy, but honestly the rower is awesome and a much neglected piece of equipment. Full body and more technical than the others, but once you get the hang of it then its a love hate thing.
  • DM01234
    DM01234 Posts: 317 Member
    I own both and use both as part of my exercise plan - a lot.. I row anywhere from 150000 - 250000 meters a month and put about 75 miles per month on the treadmill (combination of running and walking). Seldom are both done on the same day.

    Rowing is a but kicker to be sure. Without a doubt, rowing has made me a much stronger runner.

    Rowing can provide a full body workout. It's up to you to determine intensity. Whereas a treadmill you set the speed and incline and sort of keep up with it (though obviously adjustable).

    It's all personal so the only way to know is to try it and see how you like it.

    Be sure to check out Concept 2 site for proper technique. Without it, good chance you can get hurt. Takes a little time, certainly not too difficult, but very important for your best chance of making the most of it.
  • moto450
    moto450 Posts: 334 Member
    a rowing machine is hands down better than a treadmill. Ultimately just do what you enjoy the most though. You will be more likely to stick to it that way
  • upgradeddiddy
    upgradeddiddy Posts: 281 Member
    It's really apples and oranges here because a moderate speed on incline for a treadmill does the same benefits as a row machine with medium resistance. It's basically do like apples or oranges? Haha
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