Community Corner

Why Rowing is Beneficial to Seniors

By Danielle Vlahos, Solid Body Fitness

 

One of the most accessible and beneficial ways to exercise and be fit is rowing. People of all ages who are interested in staying active can easily learn how to row. Rowing on an indoor rowing machine or an erg involves repetitive movements performed while seated on a stable platform.

The advantage of this is that there is little to no impact on the joints or back unlike weight-bearing exercises like aerobics, walking, or running. Actually, rowing is one of the few aerobic activities that can strengthen your back. Using a rowing machine carries a low risk of injury, because participants are seated close to the ground.

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But don’t let the fact that rowers are seated fool you. Rowing is rigorous. It provides both aerobic and strength conditioning. Rowing increases your heart rate and promotes cardiovascular health. This will benefit you by increasing your ability to stay active for longer periods of time. Rowing can help you burn fat and lose weight. Rowing can also strengthen your muscles and condition both your upper and lower body.

The rowing motion involves all the major muscles groups: legs, arms back, abdominal, and buttocks. Rowing engages these muscles groups through a wide range of motion, which increases and improves flexibility around the major joints. Overall, it is a great way to workout your whole body with minimal negative impact. This makes rowing particularly effective for older athletes!

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A typical rowing workout can vary in length and intensity. It can be modified to accommodate any level of fitness. From those at an entry level to those with an athletic background, working out on a rowing machine is both challenging and rewarding. Rowing is a very efficient way to get a great workout. It doesn’t take long to complete a workout with all the benefits listed above.

For example, rowing burns more calories than biking at the same level of exertion. Finally, rowing is fun. Whatever your fitness goals are, even if you have no fitness experience, rowing is for you! You will find that that rowing is fun and that the community of rowers shares a camaraderie that is unique and inspiring. We hope you will join us!


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