Take a look around Fitness Evolution and you’ll see tons of equipment, from barbells to dumbbells.
What you won’t see is much cardio equipment. There’s not a bike or a treadmill to be found.
There is, however, one exception to the no-cardio dynamic: the water rower.
When we were making a list of what we would need to outfit our studio to best serve our clients, I knew a rower had to be on the list.
Once the least popular machine in the gym, indoor rowers are experiencing a revival in large part due to CrossFit’s popularity. (CrossFit utilizes rowers in its programming frequently.)
Rowers are starting to pop up in boutique studios as well. We love it because it is not only a cardiovascular workout, it also works muscles in your upper body, lower body and core.
It is hard to find a cardio modality that is this low impact and safe but challenging for such a wide-range of fitness levels. Even though you are sitting down, you can still get an extremely effective, total body workout.
The pushing and pulling motion activates nearly every stabilizing muscle group of the legs, core and upper body, including the calves, quads, hamstrings, glutes, back, biceps and shoulders. It also forces your core muscles to remain engaged throughout the motion.
Rowing is safe for most people, even beginners and is much lower impact than running. Our water rower uses a wheel and water to provide resistance, and it we’re told it is almost relaxing!
When it comes to providing the best workout possible for our clients, we always want something that will have the most bang for your buck without being dangerous, uncomfortable or intimidating. If you aren’t keen on treadmills and bikes hurt your booty, we bet you’ll love indoor rowing!
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