How To Use A Rowing Machine Properly For The Best Benefits
Rowing machines have been a way to get in effective cardiovascular exercise with little impact on fragile joints and bones. Elderly people generally benefit greatly from a rowing machine, but those who are in physical therapy may also benefit.
Rowing machines are specially designed to be low impact in your bones and joints, while maintaining a high enough impact to give your entire body a cardio workout that is both heart healthy, and feels good. It is important to know that those with very weak backs and improper stretching techniques will end up damaging their bodies with a rowing machine. It is advisable for you to stretch for at least 10 minutes, and strengthen your back prior to using a rowing machine cardio regimen.
Rowing machines are composed of a seat, a foot rest, and handle that you pull on, and a rotator that keeps everything moving in a fluid motion. The handle is pulled, and you make a thrusting motion with your hips. Some people find it difficult to pull heavier weights, or any weight at all. You get used to this and it gets much easier.
The benefits outnumber the risks though, and many people adore their rowing exercise regimen. Rowing will strengthen your arms, legs, back, abdominal area, as well as your heart and cardiovascular system. Not too many cardio workouts can claim to improve those many areas at the same time!
While the rowing machine looks easy enough, it takes a lot of training to get used to using a proper formation. Never slouch, drop your head, bend unnaturally, or strain your body too hard. Avoid using your neck for extra pushing, and never use your back when it is not supposed to be used.
Before advancing onto a rowing machine, spend some time stretching and warming your muscles. A quick 5 minute run can warm you up, as well as a bit of yoga moves for stretching purposes. Align your body in a loose, yet straight form, and use your hips and legs to move forward. Your back should never do any of the work that is involved with a rowing machine.
Closing Comments
Rowing machine exercise is highly effective, beneficial, and somewhat easy to master. Remember to form proper techniques so that you can benefit from it without hurting your body.
