Is Rowing Better Than Running

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

When it comes to working out, rowing machines have become popular in the past few years. The presence of these machines in homes and gyms may make you wonder whether you should stop your treadmill workout and join the rowing machine. Rowing comes with several benefits that running does not offer. Running involves pounding the ground, and this can get hard on your body. On the other hand, rowing is a non-impact exercise and can be an excellent way to get cardiovascular and upper bodywork. Here is a side-by-side comparison to decide the best option.

1. Cardiovascular

Both running and rowing are suitable for your cardiovascular growth. The cardio benefits you get when running are also applicable to rowing. However, rowing machines come with an added advantage since they offer more resistance. As such, you can increase your VO2 max and work towards your target heart rate. Running may make it hard on your joints because it is a high-impact activity. You will hear most runners complaining of pains such as the knee, back, and foot pains. Rowing is not weight-bearing. As such, your joints will experience less stress. If you suffer from joint pains or arthritis, consider shifting to rowing. Remember that people who are recovering from injuries use rowers to gain strength. Also, keep in mind that you have to work out to avoid joint pains. When rowing, ensure you push off with your entire foot to put less force on your knees.

2. Calories

Running is an excellent way to burn calories. You probably will not find another exercise that can top the calories burned while running. However, there is a more negligible difference between the calories you burn when rowing and those you burn while running. Studies suggest that a 150-pound individual can burn 181 calories when running for 30 minutes. The same individual will burn 158 calories while rowing at the same amount of time. However, burning calories depends on the intensity and length of your workout. You may be able to push yourself harder on one exercise and not the other. As such, you find that rowing may be a better workout when it comes to burning calories. Also, remember that running outside may burn more calories as compared to running on a treadmill. On the other hand, you will burn more calories when rowing on the water than on a machine.

3. Cost

If you run outside, you save on money. However, if you prefer running on the treadmill and gym, the cost could be equivalent to rowing. The best thing about rowing is that it is a great option year-round. However, running may become expensive during the winter because it gets too cold, and it can be dangerous to run outside. If you wish to use a treadmill, it may cost you a similar amount to purchasing a rowing machine.

4. Muscles

Running utilizes the muscles in your lower body, including quads, hamstrings, hip flexors, calves, and glutes. You will also strengthen your abs and biceps since they are supporting muscles. When rowing, you will train both your upper and lower body. You will also exercise your abs and back muscles in your core. Also, you will strengthen your biceps and deltoids. If you want to train your lower body, running is the best option. However, if you wish to work more of your body, consider rowing.

5. Duration

Rowing is the best time-efficient workout. You will burn the same amount of calories, but you will train more muscles with rowing compared to running. As such, rowing is a better exercise than running for the same duration. If you want to get the most out of rowing, you will exert yourself more than running. Also, if you go to the gym, you may notice that the treadmills are filled up, but the rowing machine is free. Most people often find the rowing machine a little intimidating.

6. Advantages

Besides being a low-impact exercise, rowing is also ideal for people with compromised vision. All you have to do is sit on the machine, find your rhythm, and allow your body to take over. However, you cannot do the same when running on a treadmill. On the other hand, running may be ideal because you can do it even without any equipment. This makes it affordable for everyone, and you can do it virtually anywhere.

In the end, it all depends on your exercise goals. If you want to burn calories, running is a better option. If you want to work more muscles, rowing will help you. Visit InfomotionSports.com for more information on rowing.