# Rowing Machines vs Multi-Gyms: What You Need to Know

> Rowing machines and multi-gyms both provide full-body workouts, but rowing machines offer superior cardiovascular benefits, calorie burn, and low-impact exercise, while multi-gyms excel in targeted strength training.

- **Published:** 2023-06-05
- **Updated:** 2023-06-07
- **Author:** Tuyet Nguyen
- **Category:** Rowing 101

## Overview

Rowing machines are standard cardio equipment found in public gyms. Multi-gyms, less common, were designed for bodybuilding and feature cable systems and frames with adjustable weight loads for various exercises.

Both deliver sweaty, full-body workouts, but the best choice depends on fitness goals, body type, and preferences.

## Pros and Cons

### Multi-Gyms
**Pros:**
- Serve multiple functions, saving space compared to separate equipment like weight benches and dumbbells.
- Target every body part for total body workouts.
- Easy to switch exercises via levers or cable adjustments.

**Cons:**
- Large footprint depending on model.
- Limited resistance; maximum weight caps progression.
- Cost around $4,000 for well-built models with advanced features.

### Rowing Machines
**Pros:**
- Full-body workout engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously.
- Effective for calorie burning, building endurance and strength.
- Low-impact, safe for all levels.
- Access to specialized workouts on and off the machine.

**Cons:**
- Potential lower back strain if posture is improper.
- Easy to overdo due to engaging feel, risking injury.

## Benefits of Cardiovascular Workouts

Cardiovascular exercise maintains healthy weight, reduces risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and osteoporosis. It improves mood, sleep, and brain function.

Rowing machines provide superior cardio compared to multi-gyms, which focus on strength training.

## Muscles Worked

**Rowing Machine:** Engages lower body (quadriceps, glutes, calves), upper body (deltoids, lats), and abdominal muscles.

**Multi-Gym:** Works upper body, abs, and lower body via various exercises, but lacks cardio.

## Calories Burned/Weight Loss

**Rowing Machine:** 250-350 calories in 30 minutes.

**Multi-Gym:** 100-300 calories in 30 minutes, depending on intensity.

## Strength Training

**Multi-Gym:** Supports muscle gain, fat loss, toning with exercises like lat pulldowns, pec flies, low rows, calf raises, leg curls, extensions, presses. Use 3-4 times weekly for strength improvements.

**Rowing Machine:** Strengthens upper/lower body and core; one stroke activates hamstrings, quads, core, arms, back, glutes. 30-minute sessions engage nearly twice the muscle mass as jogging or cycling.

## Cardio

Rowing machines deliver low-impact cardio for calorie burn, fitness improvement, and muscle toning. Options include long/short sessions or high-intensity intervals.

Multi-gyms lack cardio; supplement with jumping jacks or running.

## Impact on Joints/Injuries

Rowing machines are low-impact, joint-friendly, especially with proper posture.

Multi-gyms risk inflammation, muscle strain, or ligament tears if used incorrectly; not ideal for joint issues.

## Time Commitment

**Rowing Machine:** 30 minutes, 4 times per week for cardio and strength.

**Multi-Gym:** Less frequent to avoid overworking muscles; not daily use. Requires separate cardio sessions.

## Cost

**Rowing Machine:** $1,000-$2,000 for newer models with features.

**Multi-Gym:** $2,000-$4,000; prioritize safety features.

## Conclusion

Rowing machines outperform multi-gyms for endurance, shorter workouts, and joint safety. A 30-minute session provides more comprehensive benefits, ideal for busy schedules or joint concerns.

## Related Products

- [Strong Series Rower](https://www.avironactive.com/shop/strong-series-rower.md)
- [Strong GO Rower](https://www.avironactive.com/shop/strong-go-rower.md)

## Related Articles

- [Rowing Machine vs Treadmills](https://www.avironactive.com/rowing-101/rowing-machine-vs-treadmills.md): Compares cardio options for home gyms.
- [Rowing vs Weightlifting](https://www.avironactive.com/rowing-101/rowing-vs-weightlifting.md): Analyzes endurance vs muscle building.
- [Rowing Machine vs Elliptical](https://www.avironactive.com/rowing-101/rowing-machine-vs-elliptical.md): Weighs low-impact cardio machines.
- [Types of Rowing Machines](https://www.avironactive.com/rowing-101/types-of-rowing-machines.md): Guide to resistance types.
- [Workouts](https://www.avironactive.com/workouts.md): Available rowing workouts and programs.

## Purchase

For purchasing, visit the live store:  
→ https://www.avironactive.com/shop/

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