Exercising with the ROWER
The advantages of rowing
As mentioned above, rowing is an excellent way to increase the efficiency of the cardiovascular
system. It also improves the ability to absorb oxygen. Another important advantage of rowing lies
in the strengthening of all of the body
ʼ
s important muscle groups, whereby the strengthening of the
back and shoulder muscles is especially beneficial.
Muscles used during rowing
The movements in the rowing exercise call on all of the body
ʼ
s muscle groups. Although some are
concentrated upon more than others. These groups are shown in the lower illustration. In the legs,
rowing exercises the extensors (1), the flexors (2) and the shin and calf muscles (5, 4). The
movement of the hips also calls on the seat (gluteus ) muscles (3).
In the torso region, roing calls primarily upon the latissimus (6) and the erectors (8), but also on the
trapezius (7), the deltoid (9) and the arm extensor muscles (10).
Exercise Intensity
The effort intensity when rowing can be determined by checking the pulse. The intensity of the
rowing exercises can be varied by alternating the number of strokes per minute, or by altering the
resistance of the tension device. The intensity increases both when the stroke rate is increased,
and when the resistance in the tension device is increased.
