Gym Exercise Equipment

kerrisonr says:

I believe the elliptical is less-impact, but when I use it I don’t see any results.

I, personally, prefer the rowing machine. I feel that its a more worthwhile workout.

saphire aroura says:

both work great… I use both (more muscle groups worked, the better). Elliptical runner does cause just a little knee strain if you already have bad knees. Rower does cause a little strain in the lower back and if you’re not in shape, and can cause severe neck spasm until your shoulder muscles adapt. But either of them, after 2-4weeks, you overcome these problems and have better conditioned joints and muscles.

Better yet — gym memberships are a buddy to motivate eachother are much better. Otherwise, most people stop using their purchased machine within 3-6 months

Fit Guy says:

Hi Rhonda! Both ellipticals and rowers offer great cardio workouts. Recently I read a summary of a survey conducted by the Sporting Goods Manufacturing Association (SGMA) which said that ellipticals are the #2 purchased piece of cardio equipment, just behind treadmills.

Ellipticals appeal to more people, due to the low impact, aerobic workouts. Those machines work your heart without the impact on your legs, unlike other machines such as treadmills. The motion is similar to walking, thus it’s quite natural and easy to use. In addition, you can easily change your pace and stride, resistance setting, program, etc. in the middle of a workout, without having to stop. Plus, most ellipticals have dual action hand-grip bars that even work and tone the upper body.

Rowers are about as close as a machine can come to providing a full-body cardio workout. The quality ones are also relatively inexpensive, but just slightly more than ellipticals. However, their drawbacks seem to be that the exercise motion is unfamiliar for most people and requires training of some sort. Also, because of the considerable amount of exertion (if used for an extended period) users tend to tire quite easily. Plus, people with problem knees or backs sometimes find rowing machines inappropriate due to the strain imposed on such areas of the body.

Whether you’re considering an elliptical or a rower, just make sure you consider models that have “hands free” heart rate monitoring and control, by use of a chest belt monitor. It’ll make your workout easier and safer… I hope that helps and you achieve your fitness goals!