Anyone who’s been to their local gym during peak times knows how hard it is to outmaneuver the throng to snag an open treadmill. Your chances at an available elliptical or exercise bike are usually not much better.
However, even in the midst of a typical rush hour, there is one piece of equipment that you might just have a shot at . . . that forlorn, lonely rowing machine, just waiting for a friendly face to stop by. So, why can’t many of us bring ourselves to give it a whirl?
“Rowing may seem like a difficult, somewhat boring, and inefficient workout if you have not tried it because you are seated while you perform repetitive motions,” says Gretchen Zelek, owner of Go Gretch in Los Angeles and AFAA-certified group fitness instructor (IG @gogretch). “However, it’s fun, easy to learn, effective, and versatile. The rowing motion can even reduce stress, calm your mind, and help you relax.”
Here, Zelek shares everything you need to know to tackle this beneficial and underappreciated cardio activity, with a rundown of the many benefits, a how-to guide, tips for success, and easy ideas to get you started.
