Rowing machines were developed for rowing enthusiasts as a way to simulate rowing on water, while still on land. Professional and amateur rowers have long used them as training devices. They are also used as exercise equipment by fitness buffs. Many individuals, working to stay in shape, have employed the rowing machine to attain a full body workout. Rowing machines work all of the major muscle groups while in use. They also combine aerobic and strength training in a single workout.
This article will focus on four types of rowing machines. Some incorporate a cable and pulley system to attain a pulling force. Others have hydraulic pistons that provide tension. Magnetic resistance and rowing devices that utilize air as a means of increasing resistance are also available. Air rowing machines has some very distinct advantages over its cable, hydraulic, and magnetic counterparts.
Cable based machines cannot operate as efficiently as air, magnetic or hydraulic machines. They are much noisier and can’t provide the smooth motion that air, hydraulic, and magnetic systems. You may get the same health benefits from a cable system; however, it cannot provide the same low impact workout as the others. You will also have to adjust the tension with a knob or dial to increase resistance as your fitness and stamina improve.
Hydraulic rowing machines incorporate fluid filled pistons, similar to shocks on an automobile or pistons used to slowly close a door. They can provide a quieter and smoother workout than the cable system but they won’t match the overall efficiency of the air rowing machines.
Magnetic rowing machines use electromagnets to provide the resistive force necessary to attain a full body aerobic and anaerobic workout. Unfortunately as you increase the tension on the machine you increase the amount of electrical energy consumed by the machine. Electricity is becoming more expensive and in some areas more scares. Magnetic based rowing machines will cost more to operate in the long term.
Air resistance rowing machines have the advantage; they provide much smoother, simultaneous full body strength training and aerobic workouts. They are quiet, which allows you to use them in your home without disturbing others. Air rowing machines are also a perfect fit for the environmentally conscious because they don’t use much electricity. With the ever-rising cost of electrical energy it is imperative that we conserve as much electricity as possible. Most of the electricity that comes into our homes is produced using either coal or fossil fuels. Fossil fuels and coal are both major sources of pollution and rapidly depleting over time.
It behooves us as conscientious individuals to take care of our environment as well as ourselves. Choosing the right machine can benefit you personally and have a positive impact on the environment and benefit future generations. You can find an air rower machine at local fitness stores or compare brand names and features online before you make your final selection.
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