A woman in a gym pulls the handle of a rowing machine. Small streams of light enter high windows of the dimly lit gym.

Indoor rowing is a popular way to improve your gains in each workout with a unique blend of cardiovascular and strength training. It’s the perfect complement to other activities! If you want to enhance your fitness routine, indoor rowing (or erging) might be the key to unlocking new levels of performance and enjoyment. Discover how indoor rowing complements other fitness activities and learn some helpful tips for getting started.

The Benefits of Indoor Rowing

Indoor rowing is a full-body workout. Unlike many exercises targeting specific muscle groups, rowing simultaneously engages your legs, core, and upper body. This comprehensive workout builds strength and endurance throughout your entire body. Another significant advantage is its low-impact nature, which reduces the risk of injury and makes it suitable for people of various fitness levels.

Complementing Fitness Activities With Rowing

Erging complements other fitness activities, and many fitness buffs combine workouts to improve their overall performance. For runners, rowing offers an excellent cross-training opportunity while strengthening muscles that running does not target.

Weightlifters benefit from the cardiovascular boost provided by rowing, improving their overall stamina and endurance. Yoga practitioners can build core strength through rowing, which is essential for maintaining balance and stability in various poses.

Getting Started With Indoor Rowing

If you’re new to indoor rowing, start with the basics. Use the proper form to maximize your workout and avoid sustaining injuries. Also, set realistic goals, and increase the intensity of each workout to achieve them. Integrating rowing into your daily routine is as simple as dedicating 15–30 minutes a few days a week. Work out consistently, and you’ll eventually see improvements in your fitness levels!

Choosing the Right Equipment

Selecting the right rowing machine, or ergometer, is an important step in your indoor rowing journey. Various models offer different features to suit your needs. For home use, rower gym equipment like magnetic or hydraulic rowers provide a smooth and quiet workout experience.

Commercial gyms often use ergometers with air or water resistance due to their ability to mimic the feel of rowing in a boat. Consider your budget, space, and preferences when choosing the best fitness equipment.

Rowing Workouts To Pair With Other Exercises

Many workouts pair well with erging to maximize their benefits. For beginners, a simple routine might involve alternating between rowing and bodyweight exercises, like squats and push-ups.

Fitness buffs may incorporate intervals into their cardio sessions, while advanced athletes might combine rowing with high-intensity interval training (HIIT). These combinations keep workouts exciting, diverse, and challenging.

Indoor rowing complements many fitness activities with benefits that enhance your fitness regimen. Give indoor rowing a try, and find new ways to work up a sweat in your home gym!