Elliptical Trainer vs. Rowing Machine

The elliptical trainer vs rowing machine, which one suits you better? Both the elliptical machine and rowing machine help you create high-calorie-burning, non-impact aerobic workouts. However, the similarities end there.

Rowers use a push-pull method to work your entire body, while elliptical machines use a pedaling motion to work your lower body. An elliptical emphasizes weight loss, while the primary goal of a rowing machine is improving muscle strength and burning calories.

Which is the Better Option, a Rower or Elliptical Machine?

     1. Rower V’s Elliptical – Calories Burned

According to a publication by the Harvard School of Public Health, an elliptical machine burns more calories per hour than a rower. The researchers the calories burned per hour for several activities at moderate intensity.

	125-pound person	155-pound person	185-pound person
Rowing machine	420 calories	520 calories	622 calories
Elliptical trainer	540 calories	670 calories	800 calories

Heavier people burn more calories than lighter people largely because the same movement demands more energy. However, regardless of your weight, an elliptical helps you burn significantly more calories per hour compared to a rowing machine.

Therefore, an elliptical machine is ideal for people whose main goal is to lose weight. However, due to the increased muscle use required for rowing, your heart rate and metabolism will remain elevated even after your workout. This results in a higher post-workout calorie burn.

     2. Elliptical V’s Rower – Difficulty of Use

An elliptical is relatively easier to use because you simply need to step on the pedals and move as if you were walking or running. Grab the handles and move your arms back and forth. Easy!

However, proper technique on an indoor rowing machine isn’t so intuitive and generally requires more practice. The proper technique prevents injuries. Therefore, it’s necessary to spend at least one session with a knowledgeable and experienced trainer to learn proper stroke motion.  On the other hand, you can use a good training video to help you learn the proper techniques.

     3. Rowing Machine V’s Elliptical – Muscles Worked

Although both the rowing machine and elliptical machine strengthen your muscles, their main purpose isn’t strength training. Both the rowing machine and elliptical machine train your upper and lower body.

Many elliptical machines provide very little chest, arm, back, and shoulder benefit. Although with enough resistance elliptical machines that come with arm levers can help build upper body muscles, they are not as effective as rowing machines.

  Rowing machines are much more effective for building both upper and lower body muscles because they allow you to emphasize various different muscle groups by decreasing or increasing the amount of arm or leg effort you use.

A rower will also tone your shoulders and arms more effectively than an elliptical machine, while the elliptical machine helps tone the calves more effectively. Since rowing involves more muscle groups, it’s essential to request a demonstration from an experienced colleague or trainer to avoid straining your knees, hips, or back.

4. Intensity and Impact

Both the elliptical and rowing machine gives users a low-impact workout. This means that the activity does not put too much pressure on the joints. Rowing is a tough exercise ideal for people looking for cardiovascular exercise that will make them sweat. On the other hand, the elliptical is perfect for people who want to lose weight by working out with the least amount of effort.

You must decide for yourself which cardio machine suits you better depending on your needs. A rower is probably a better choice if you want a ‘tough’ workout. If your main goal is losing weight then you should go for the elliptical trainer. However, if you suffer from any medical condition, you should ask your physician for advice before engaging in any form of exercise.