Treadmill or rowing machine: what trainers recommend for burning fat and gaining muscle

As many people in Spain return to their work routines after the holidays, some people are setting a clear goal: signing up for or returning to the gym . There are numerous reasons to take the plunge, such as losing or maintaining weight, gaining muscle mass , or simply disconnecting and forgetting about daily duties for a few moments. However, each goal is different and, therefore, requires different exercises , which is all the more reason to follow the guidelines and instructions of a qualified professional.

Treadmills and rowing are two Machines that are found in the vast majority of gyms in the country. Training with the latter has many benefits , as it targets different muscle groups in the body. And, obviously, the former also has its advantages. But which one do specialists recommend for burning fat? And for gaining muscle? The answer is simple: it all depends on how regularly you exercise.

Benefits of exercising on the treadmill

It has been—and is—widely used for high-impact activities. Additionally, the machine can be adjusted to suit individual needs and abilities, something a 20minutos trainer highlighted in this article some time ago. It also contributes to weight loss and strengthening the heart, among other benefits.

Furthermore, as Erica Coviello stated in Women's Health magazine, this machine allows you to practice different types of exercises , from jogging to walking, and it would activate part of the lower body - hamstrings, torso, glutes, calves and quadriceps.

However, you should be aware of the potential impact on your joints . So, if you suffer from any joint pain, it's best to consult a professional.

Benefits of rowing for the body

Over the past few years, rowing has gained significant popularity in gyms. This isn't surprising, since it's a tool that activates muscle groups in both the upper and lower body. Furthermore, according to personal trainer Michelle Reno-Parolini, also speaking to Women's Health , training with it would result in greater calorie burn and oxygen consumption—aerobic capacity—even at moderate intensity. In turn, training with this machine wouldn't put much impact on the joints , something that can occur with a treadmill.

Even so, we're talking about a very precise machine, meaning you need to master its technique to avoid problems and take advantage of all its benefits , says Reno-Parolini. At this point, we emphasize again the need to consult a specialist.

Which of the two helps burn more fat and gain muscle mass?

While it's true that rowing burns more calories and works more muscles than using a treadmill, Coviello believes that the best way to burn fat will depend on how often you use the machine , because yes, regularity and consistency also play a role.

Regarding strength, Coviello explains that with the treadmill you gain strength in the glutes and quadriceps, but it depends on the incline of the machine , while with the rowing machine , a little more, as it works a large part of the body.

Still, exercising on these machines is beneficial for your heart . As Sohee Carpenter, also writing in Women's Health , states: "Both are excellent tools for cardiovascular health."