Cardio Showdown: Rowing Machine vs Elliptical – Which Will Prevail?
Introduction
When it comes to cardio machines for home use, the rowing machine and elliptical are two of the most popular options. Both machines provide a low-impact full body workout but they accomplish this in very different ways. This blog post will compare the rowing machine vs elliptical to help you determine which machine is best suited for your fitness goals and lifestyle. Over the course of this blog post, we will cover key specifications, muscle groups worked, calorie burn, and common questions around these two cardio stalwarts. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of whether the rowing machine or elliptical will prevail for your needs.
Muscle Groups Worked
One of the biggest differences between the rowing machine and elliptical is the muscle groups each targets during a workout. Let’s break down the specific muscles engaged on each:
- Back muscles (latissimus dorsi, trapezius, rhomboids)
- Biceps
- Triceps
- Shoulders
- Legs (hamstrings, glutes, quadriceps)
- Core (abdominals and lower back)
- Glutes
- Hamstrings
- Quadriceps
- Calves
- Lower back
- Core (abdominals)
- Some upper body engagement from arm motion
As you can see, the rowing machine provides a full body workout by heavily engaging the back, arms, shoulders, core and legs. In comparison, the elliptical focuses more on the lower body but with less upper body involvement. This is an important distinction if you’re looking to target specific muscle groups in your workouts.
Calorie Burn Comparison
Another key factor to consider when choosing between these machines is their calorie burn potential. Both the rowing machine and elliptical are excellent calorie torchers, but which burns more calories per hour on average? Let’s take a look at some data:
Table: Approximate Calories Burned Per Hour on Rowing Machine vs Elliptical for a 150lb Person
| Machine | Calories Burned/Hour |
|---|---|
| Rowing Machine | 600-1000 calories |
| Elliptical | 450-750 calories |
As shown in the table above, most sources indicate the rowing machine has a slight edge when it comes to calorie burn over the elliptical. A 150lb person can expect to burn 600-1000 calories per hour rowing versus 450-750 calories per hour using an elliptical machine. This higher calorie burn on the rowing machine is likely due to its full body motion and engagement of more muscle groups compared to the elliptical’s lower body focus. Of course, calorie burn can vary greatly depending on individual effort level, pace, weight, etc. But on average, the rowing machine tends to allow for a few hundred more calories burned in the same time period as the elliptical.
Conclusion: Rowing Machine Vs Elliptical
In conclusion, both the rowing machine and elliptical are excellent options for low-impact cardio to help you achieve your fitness goals. The rowing machine offers a more intense full-body workout, engaging upper and lower body muscle groups. It also typically burns a few hundred more calories per hour compared to the elliptical. On the other hand, the elliptical is gentler on the joints, making it ideal for injury rehabilitation. Ultimately, the best choice is the one you will use consistently and enjoy in your fitness routine. Consider your fitness goals and lifestyle to determine whether the rowing machine or elliptical is more suitable for your needs.
FAQs
Which is lower impact?
Both the rowing machine and elliptical are considered low-impact exercises as they allow for movement without pounding on your joints. However, the elliptical is generally regarded as the lower impact of the two since you never fully leave the platform during use. The rowing motion does involve a slight hopping motion at the catch of each stroke that some may find more jarring than the elliptical’s smooth elliptical pedal motion.
Which is better for injury rehabilitation?
If you’re recovering from an injury or have joint issues, the elliptical will likely be better tolerated than the rowing machine. As mentioned above, the elliptical’s smooth motion is easier on the body. However, the rowing machine can still be suitable for rehab as long as you modify the pace and range of motion as needed. Always check with your doctor or physical therapist first before using either machine during recovery.
Which provides a better full body workout?
When it comes to engaging the most muscle groups, the rowing machine has a distinct advantage. Its dynamic full body motion works the back, arms, shoulders, core and legs intensely. While the elliptical does target the lower body, it lacks the same level of upper body involvement as the rowing machine. So for a true full body sweat session, rowing takes the win.
Which is better for weight loss?
As we saw in the calorie burn comparison table, the rowing machine tends to allow for burning slightly more calories per hour of use compared to the elliptical. However, both machines are excellent options for weight loss when combined with a calorie-controlled diet. The key is choosing the machine you enjoy using most to ensure consistent cardio workouts over the long term.