At home

Rowing machine at home

Full-body cardio that is easy on your joints.

  • Hardintensity
  • ~490kcal per hour
  • Mid costbudget
  • Lowimpact
Rowing machine at home illustration

Is rowing machine at home right for you?

Full-body cardio that is easy on your joints. It is a hard-intensity, low impact activity that you can do at home, on your own. Expect to burn around 490 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.

Anyone can start. Expect to spend up to about £50 a month.

Why try rowing machine at home

  • Burns calories. At around 490 kcal an hour it can help with weight loss alongside a balanced diet.
  • Improves fitness. It raises your heart rate and builds stamina.
  • Builds strength. It works your muscles hard enough to make you stronger over time.
  • Kind to joints. Low impact makes it a good choice if running or jumping is uncomfortable.

How to start rowing machine at home

  1. Row for 10 minutes at a steady pace, focusing on legs then arms.

  2. Get the basics: rowing machine. Borrow or hire before you buy.

  3. Keep the first few sessions short and easy, and aim for two or three a week.

  4. Warm up for five minutes first, build up gradually and stop if anything hurts.

A 4-week starter plan

WeekSessionsMinutes eachFocus
1215Learn the basics and keep every session easy.
2220Repeat last week and add a little time.
3325Add a session or make one a bit harder.
4330Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next.

This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.

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