Rowing for Your Health

One of the great aspects of Rowing is that its a sport for any one who has the stamina. No matter what body type, age, or level of athletic activity, rowing strengthens the cardiovascular system. Rowing is one of the few sports that exercises the entire body and that is one of the most positive benefits.

Elderly Gentleman on Erg

The erg or rowing machine tones and increases muscle tissue as well as builds endurance. The erg increases lung capacity and is a calorie burner. After a few days of this type of aerobic exercise the heart has already begun to strengthen in order to prevent any heart diseases.

Rowing is also a low impact sport compared to a sport like soccer or basketball, so there is little room for serious injury. This enables rowers to continue into older ages. Many rowers seen at the Olympics and different regattas around the world are over 40 years old. This sport is a skill one would keep for a lifetime.

Broken down by the parts of the stroke: The lower body is worked during the drive as the legs push off, the footplates. The upper body is used when completing the stroke as the arms pull the oar to the chest. The abs and back are worked out during the drive and recovery, being flexed and relaxed all throughout the piece.

Staying in consistent healthy shape has been proven to increase life capacity. Working out the whole body in one workout rowing can reduce the stress for an individual ultimately leading to a more healthy and beneficial lifestyle.

Nutrition Tips for Rowers