No doubt, everybody has their favourite piece of cardio equipment for different reasons. It almost seems like the piece you choose reflects your personality and gives you membership into a club. We have the recumbent bikers who read the paper and reply to emails while exercising, the elliptical trainers who go so fast that it looks like their legs are going to fly off, the tread-millers who can be divided into two groups – the mall walkers and the over enthusiastic marathoners – and, last but not least, the stair-climbers who basically lean on the hand rails for dear life and climb as fast as they can.

Like all the great rivalries out there, none are fiercer than the different cardio groups. Let’s face it; we have all been a member of one of these groups at one time. Before I continue, I do have to admit that I am really biased when it comes to cardio machines, but my favourite piece of exercise equipment is called the Concept 2 Indoor Rower. Not only do I personally love this machine, but I have all my athletes and clients on these bad boys multiple times a week.

When I look at a 'cardio' piece, I like to look at what is actually moving and what you are accomplishing. The C2 Rower is the only piece that gives you both full flexion and full extension in the upper and lower body. In other words, you are moving both your upper and lower body throughout their full range of motion. This is ideal for flexibility and keeping your joints safe and secure. You also get a ton of work in the abs and low back; no other piece does this.

C2 Rowers are also low impact, perfect for those with sore knees, ankles, hips, feet, or recovering from a lower body injury. With so much moving you will also be burning a ton of calories. Much like running, you can pretty much do any type of workout – long distance, sprints and intervals. Another great thing I like about these machines is you adjust the intensity simply by rowing harder or easier. Which leads me to my next point – these machines do not use any electricity. Yes, you can get a great workout and be eco-friendly at the same time!

My last and final point is that this machine will kick your butt. The rower and I definitely have a love-hate relationship. No other piece will give you this type of feeling. So next time you are in the gym and you see that lonely rower sitting in the corner, go over there, make nice with it and hope it decides to do the same! 

James Scott is the Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Shanghai Sharks. If you have a fitness question you’d like him to answer in a future column, please email him at [email protected].