Rowing Machine vs Step Machine
Maximizing 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.
Customize Your Cardio Workout: Explore the Benefits of Rowing Machine and Step Machine for Better Comparison.
Planfit Users' Choice about Rowing Machine vs Step Machine : Which is Better?
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.
Popularity is not the whole answer. Rowing Machine and Step Machine differ in the muscles they load, 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 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 Comment
- Keep your back straight and be careful not to stretch your legs excessively.
If you want to know a detailed guide to Rowing Machine, alternative exercises, and its benefits, check it out here. Check out the Rowing Machine Guide page of our blog!
How to 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 Comment
- Be careful not to let your knees go past your toes, and lift your feet completely.
If you want to know a detailed guide to Step Machine, alternative exercises, and its benefits, check it out here. Check out the Step Machine Guide page of our blog!
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.
Get free AI personalized workout plan
Choosing exercises that align with your goals and body type is as important as consistency in your workout regime. Its about smart training that targets your specific fitness aspirations.
It's a straightforward way to customize a workout plan to meet your unique needs and objectives, ensuring every effort contributes to your fitness journey.
