Rowing machine or cross trainer: which is better?

When it comes to working out at home, many fitness enthusiasts are faced with the choice between a rowing machine and an elliptical. Both machines offer effective ways to increase endurance and strengthen muscles. But which is truly better? In this article, we'll compare the two fitness machines in detail and help you make an informed decision.

What is a rowing machine?

A rowing machine simulates the movements of rowing on water. It offers a holistic workout that engages both the upper and lower body regions. During training, almost all major muscle groups are activated: back, legs, arms, and even the core muscles. The movements are gentle and easy on the joints.

Advantages of the rowing machine

• full body workout: Rowing machines offer an effective full-body workout, meaning you work multiple muscle groups at once.
• Calorie burning: An intense rowing workout can burn between 600 and 800 calories per hour, depending on weight and intensity.
• Improve cardiovascular health: Regular rowing strengthens the cardiovascular system.
• Gentle on the joints: Compared to many other fitness machines, the rowing machine is very gentle on the joints.

What is a crosstrainer?

The cross trainer, also called an elliptical trainer, is a popular fitness machine that simulates an elliptical movement. It combines the motions of running and cycling and provides a low-impact endurance workout. It targets both the legs and arms.

Advantages of the cross trainer

• Gentle on the joints: The elliptical movement reduces the strain on the joints and is therefore ideal for people with joint problems.
• Calorie burning: The cross trainer also burns a lot of calories, on average about 500 to 700 calories per hour, depending on the intensity.
• Flexibility: Some cross trainers offer programs and resistance settings that allow for individual training.
• Muscle building: The training not only strengthens the leg muscles, but also activates the upper body muscles when the arms are used.

Which muscles are trained?

rowing machine

Rowing engages the back, legs (especially the thigh muscles), abdominal muscles, and arms (biceps and triceps). The dynamic movement constantly activates and challenges these muscle groups, leading to effective muscle building.

Cross trainer

The cross trainer primarily strengthens the calf muscles, thighs, buttocks, as well as the muscles of the arms and upper body. The back-and-forth movement of the arms can also help strengthen the shoulders.

Who should we recommend what to?

The choice between a rowing machine and a cross trainer depends largely on individual goals and preferences. Those seeking an intensive full-body workout may benefit more from a rowing machine. On the other hand, a cross trainer is ideal for those seeking a low-impact endurance workout without putting too much strain on their joints.

The rowing machine is chosen by:

• Athletes who want to train strength and endurance at the same time.
• People who strive for maximum calorie burning.
• Fitness enthusiasts who want to incorporate their upper body muscles more into their routine.

The following people choose the cross trainer:

• Joggers or runners looking for a joint-friendly alternative.
• Beginners who need a gentle introduction to endurance training.
• Anyone suffering from physical limitations who should avoid intense exercise.

Conclusion

Both machines offer unique benefits, and the choice ultimately depends on individual fitness goals. A comparison of rowing machines and ellipticals clearly shows that neither machine is "better" in any absolute sense—it all depends on personal preference and health needs. Regardless of which machine you choose, it's important to train regularly and perform the exercises correctly to achieve the best results and avoid injury.