A Comparison of Rowing Machines
Rowing machines provide excellent aerobic workouts. And today's designs mean more and more rowers simulate the fluidity and ease of movement offered by water rowing.
A study at the University of Denmark found that people who engaged in repetitive bouts of rowing demonstrated an increase in the cells that are responsible for maintaining the immune system. Most importantly, an elevated level of immunity was maintained even during the times the people weren't exercising. If you don't live near a body of water, you can get the same benefits from a rowing machine Broadly speaking you can put rowing machines into three categories...
Hydraulic Rowing Machines
Two hydraulic pistons offer the resistance against which you pull. These rowers feel the most unnatural and are usually the cheapest. The movement lacks fluidity, exactly the reason most people find rowing comfortable. Either spend the extra for an air resistance rower or buy a different piece of exercise equipment.
Air Rowing Machines
These are the most common and what you'll find in gyms around the country. The tension on wind-resistance rowers comes from the finned flywheel at the front of the machine. As the user pulls back on the chain, the flywheel sucks in air, providing resistance. The faster you row, the more resistance you feel.
Water Rowing Machines
Using a stainless steel paddle in a 22-inch circular tank, the Water Rower recreates the feeling and sound of rowing on water almost exactly. Resistance is generated by the drag of the water moving past the tank. The faster the water moves the greater the drag and the greater the exercise intensity required to maintain that speed. So just like swimming or running and of course real rowing, you increase the intensity by rowing faster.
If you're thinking of buying a rowing machine, below are what I consider to be the best three in terms of value for money. Anyone who's been to a gym will probably have used a Concept 2 rower. They're hard to find online but Bigfitness sell them at a discount. Because the Concept 2 is quite expensive I've included what I think is the best low priced air resistance rowing machine on the market...
This is a more affordable alternative to the Concept 2 rower (see below). As far as air resistance rowing machines go, it is great value for money. In fact it costs less than many hydraulic rowers and there really is no comparison. It's sturdily built and looks very similar to the Concept 2. Bigfitness are the best place for this rower. The best low cost air rower.
Concept 2 Rowing Machine
Used in the majority of fitness clubs the Concept 2 is without doubt the best air resistance rower on the market. It was originally designed by Peter and Dick Dreissigacker, competitive rowers who wanted to accurately replicate the fluid drag of a boat, while keeping within the budget constraints of the typical home user. Professional rowers use the Concept 2 as part of their training program. The best air rower without contest.
Water RowerIf I was designing the ultimate home gym and money was no object, this would be in it. Each one is handcrafted and looks like a piece of furniture. If the $1000 price tag is affordable to you visit Bodytrends to get a thorough idea of why this is the ultimate piece of exercise equipment. The site has some great, in-depth articles, press reviews and an FAQ page. Their customer service is also outstanding if you want to ask any questions.
|
|
