Is the rowing machine good for losing weight?

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Simply lose weight - with the rowing machine

When you think of classic cardio training in the gym, you might think primarily of ergometers, treadmills and cross trainers. These are all machines that allow you to train in the lower heart rate range, whereas the rowing machine is often used for more strength-intensive training. Nevertheless, losing weight with a rowing machine is possible, but often not actually desirable. You can find out exactly what this contradiction is all about here.


Intensive training and weight regulation with the rowing machine

Basically, you should be aware of how you can lose weight while exercising: this requires a fine interplay of diet and exercise, you must be in a permanent caloric deficit. Losing weight with the rowing machine should therefore be easy, after all, you burn a lot of calories here. Around 80 percent of your muscles are used on the rowing machine, the energy turnover is high, higher than on the ergometer, for example. However, training on the rowing machine also has a significantly higher muscle intensity. Instead of slow cycling, powerful strokes are required here. The joint-friendly training is therefore very comprehensive, but losing weight on the rowing machine is not the rule in many cases.


Athletes often find that they initially gain weight as a result of intensive training. However, looking at the scales should not be the deciding factor for you.

This weight gain has something to do with the structure of muscle fibers, which you will build up quite quickly through rowing training. Muscles naturally store more water than fatty tissue, which makes them heavier.

In the long term, however, you can easily lose weight with the rowing machine, because the increase in muscle mass not only ensures a better physique, but also a higher caloric basal metabolic rate. This means that you burn your body's own fat reserves more easily, which is what you actually want to achieve when losing weight.

Step by step to your dream body

The rowing machine is a very special piece of cardio equipment that is essential for a targeted warm-up before intensive strength training. Whether you want to build muscle or lose weight, achieving a healthier body balance and losing weight with the rowing machine is easy - provided, of course, that you are prepared to take on intensive training. The rowing machine and the quickly visible results should be worth it in any case.

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Editorial team fitnessmarkt.de (EA)

Image credit: #95873319 luckybusiness AdobeStock

Published on: 30 January 2018

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