It may sound too good to be true: a (nearly) full-body workout, all from the comfort of a (backless) chair? That’s exactly what you get with a rowing machine, also known as an ergometer, an exercise machine designed to mimic the mechanics of the aquatic sport (and you don’t need to live near a body of water to benefit).
As a personal trainer certified by the American Council on Exercise with a specialization in orthopedic exercise and senior fitness, I’ve long recommended rowing to my clients and readers as a low-impact, high-intensity method of boosting cardiorespiratory endurance and activating the upper body, core, and lower body before the bulk of a workout. It can also serve as a gentle transition back into exercise after a long time away.
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