# Rowing Machine vs. Stairmaster: Which One is Better? **By Tuyet Nguyen · Published June 5, 2023 · Updated March 28, 2024** A comparison of rowing machines and the Stairmaster — two of the most popular exercise machines on the market — covering muscles worked, calorie burn, strength training, cardio, joint impact, time efficiency, and cost to help you decide which is better for your fitness goals. --- ## Rowing Machine vs. Stairmaster: Pros and Cons Many people find themselves torn between the Stairmaster and the rowing machine when choosing a home exercise machine. Both are excellent options for a weight loss workout, but the rowing machine outperforms the Stairmaster in several ways. - The rowing machine provides a complete workout since it works both the upper and lower body simultaneously. - The rowing machine is a low-impact exercise, meaning it's easier on the joints than the Stairmaster. - The rowing machine is more efficient, allowing you to burn more calories in less time. --- ## Benefits of Cardiovascular Workouts Cardiovascular exercise is any movement that increases your heart rate and makes you breathe more heavily. Examples include running, biking, swimming, and rowing. Benefits of cardio workouts include: - Strengthens your heart and improves circulation - Reduces risk of heart disease, stroke, and obesity - Improves mood and mental health - Reduces stress and enhances sleep quality --- ## Muscles Worked The Stairmaster is an excellent cardio workout for your legs, but it doesn't do much for the rest of your body. Using a connected rowing machine like the Aviron provides a full-body workout that works 86% of your muscles, including your arms, legs, back, and core. The rowing motion builds strength and endurance, and is low-impact — easy on your joints and suitable for people of all fitness levels. --- ## Calories Burned / Weight Loss - Rowing is a full-body workout; the Stairmaster only works the lower body — a rowing machine burns approximately 800 calories per hour. - Rowing is a low-impact exercise, easier on your joints than running or other high-impact activities. - Rowing machines like the Aviron can be more engaging and fun than a Stairmaster, making it easier to stick with your workout routine. For burning calories and shedding pounds, the rowing machine is the more effective choice. --- ## Strength Training Because rowing machines engage both lower and upper body muscles simultaneously, they are one of the most efficient ways to train. They provide a full-body workout, build endurance, and increase stamina. Stairmasters only work the lower body and don't provide enough resistance to build muscle. For a complete strength training workout, the rowing machine is the superior choice. --- ## Cardio Rowing machines provide a higher resistance level than a Stairmaster, making them more effective at burning calories. Rowing works the arms, legs, and core, improving cardiovascular fitness in ways that a Stairmaster cannot match. --- ## Impact on Joints / Injuries - The Stairmaster is a weight-bearing exercise that impacts your feet, knees, and hips. - A rowing machine uses a low-impact, full-body motion that won't jar your joints or put too much strain on any one area. - Working all major muscle groups at once on a rowing machine results in a more efficient workout with lower injury risk. --- ## Time Efficiency Intensity is more important than duration when it comes to results. A rowing machine can deliver a better workout in less time than a Stairmaster because it simultaneously works your arms, legs, back, and core, while stairclimbing primarily works the lower body. This means more calories burned and more muscle built in a shorter amount of time. --- ## Cost - A high-quality rowing machine can be purchased for under $2,000. - A top-of-the-line Stairmaster costs over $10,000. For a cost-effective way to get in shape at home, the rowing machine is the clear winner. --- ## Conclusion The rowing machine is the better choice if you want: - A comprehensive full-body workout - Strength training benefits - Cardiovascular health improvements - Low impact on your joints - A more affordable home gym machine The Aviron smart rowing machine offers features including streaming, live competition, and coached programs for an engaging workout experience. [Learn more about the Aviron smart rowing machine] : https://www.avironactive.com/ --- ## Read Next - [Rowing Workouts: Benefits, Tips and 6 Workout Ideas](https://www.avironactive.com/rowing-101/5-rowing-machine-exercises/) - [Rowing Machines vs. Exercise Bikes: What You Need to Know](https://www.avironactive.com/rowing-101/rowing-machine-vs-exercise-bike/) - [Rowing Machines vs. Treadmills: What You Need to Know](https://www.avironactive.com/rowing-101/rowing-machine-vs-treadmills/) **Tags:** Aviron, Health & Fitness **Canonical URL:** https://www.avironactive.com/rowing-101/rowing-machine-vs-stairmaster/