Rowing Machine vs Step Machine
Which one fits your Cardio workout plan?
Contents
Rowing Machine burns more per minute than Step Machine — MET 8.5 vs 7. Compare intensity, joint impact, and form for both Cardio options.
Compare the benefits of Rowing Machine and Step Machine and pick the one that fits your Cardio workout.
Rowing Machine vs Step Machine: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Step Machine more often — 642 sessions compared to 528 for Rowing Machine.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Rowing Machine and Step Machine differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Rowing Machine and Step Machine Differ
| What differs | Rowing Machine | Step Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Muscles worked | back, quads, chest, hamstrings, glutes, calves, and triceps | quads, hamstrings, and glutes |
| Difficulty | 1 of 5 | 1 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 528 sessions | 642 sessions |
How to Do Rowing Machine
Rowing Machine Muscles Worked: Cardio
Form
- 1. Fix your feet and sit while holding the handle.
- 2. While straightening your legs, lean your body back and pull the handle.
- 3. Pull your elbows to your sides while keeping your abdominal muscles engaged.
Coach's Tips
- Keep your back straight and be careful not to stretch your legs excessively.
For a full Rowing Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Rowing Machine exercise guide.
How to Do Step Machine
Step Machine Muscles Worked: Cardio
Form
- 1. Place your foot on the pedal and hold the handlebar while standing.
- 2. Press down on the pedal with one foot at a time to take steps.
- 3. Move in a steady rhythm and do not bend your knees too much.
Coach's Tips
- Be careful not to let your knees go past your toes, and lift your feet completely.
For a full Step Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Step Machine exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Cardio, Rowing Machine or Step Machine?
Neither is clearly ahead — Planfit users log both at a similar rate. They both train Cardio, so the choice comes down to the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
Do Rowing Machine and Step Machine work the same muscles?
Not quite. Rowing Machine loads back, quads, chest, hamstrings, glutes, calves, and triceps, and Step Machine loads quads, hamstrings, and glutes.
What equipment do Rowing Machine and Step Machine need?
Rowing Machine needs a machine, and Step Machine needs a machine.
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