Rowing to fitness?

[civilservant]

Simple question really, would anyone recomend rowing as a good way back to Cardio fitness?

 

Im a good 3 stone overweight (lazy and eating badly, I offer no excuses) and just recently have made changes to my eating habits as part of a new lifestyle. In conjuction with this I'm endevoribg to become more active, but running is out of the question as I broke my ankle last year and its still kind of week.

 

I know that anything Cardin related is good, and the truth is I'm not looking for muscle gain so much as simple weight loss. So has anyone ffoumd success with rowing machines or have any tips to offer?

[ghost69]

it's good cardio, but focuses mostly on your lower back and upper body. you need full body cardio to get that last bit to go away. try riding a bike, skateboarding, rollerblading, running, etc.

[Pocket Rocket]

Rowing is awesome, along with what ghost has said it's great for the arms too. I was fit as a fiddle when I used to row, loved it. However, you may want to alternate with machines that concentrate on your legs, such as cycling or cross training. THe benefit of those two is that you can start at a reasonable pace, unlike running which most start by walking and get pretty bored/give up.

[civilservant]

Thanks for the tips guys, I think I will alternate between that and cyling. As I said before running is out of the question as my ankle isn't up to it.

[Pocket Rocket]

Thanks for the tips guys, I think I will alternate between that and cyling. As I said before running is out of the question as my ankle isn't up to it.

 

Can you walk though? Sometimes a brisk walk can also do wonders, but if your ankle can't take it, better stick to something that doesn't have so much impact (cycling's still good).

[civilservant]

Yeah I can walk and jog resonably for 10-15 minutes, but anything more strenuous then that and it starts to hurt alot. I still have the pin in there from the operation.

[Pocket Rocket]

Ouch! Would swimming help?

[civilservant]

Ouch! Would swimming help?

 

Now there's an idea I hadn't considered. Also I live a short walk from the local pool. I think I'll have to wait until I've started to lose it though, since I'm a little self conscious about my extra weight at the minute.

[Pocket Rocket]

I know what you mean Don't worry though, just jump right in and I'm sure no one will notice. Or try go when there is less 'congestion'. Swimming is a great full body exercise and it's easier on the joints. Id ask your doctor first though if you have doubts.

[civilservant]

Went for my first swim since I was like 16 today, I can certainly tell I did! Ankle, shoulders and calves all screaming at me, but I feel good

 

Back tomorrow' me thinks!