Cranky Goat - Rowing

A Daily Cross Training Fitness Platform: Do ONE or a Combination of the running workout; hiking and/or brisk walking combined with progressive intensity skipping routine; push-ups and basic core strength training such as crunches and full body squats - voilá, a great workout that is versatile to use everyday of the week!

Rowing is also included, as a standalone component.  If you are an experienced rower, it can be done on a daily basis without stressing your body - but I would suggest maxing out at 5000 metres per day.  If you are going competative with your rowing, you want to develop a more robust routine specifc to your needs and body recovery requirements.

NOTE: If you are a beginning runner, this is also a good overall program to incorporate the C25K (Couch to 5 Km) Beginner Training  Routine - which is an excellent program.

Simple and Versatile - No Gym Required...

The entry portion is kept basic on purpose as it allows user flexibility to include whatever data they wish - i.e. time, distance, or combined.  This is designed specifically with user flexibility in mind - choose to do AT LEAST ONE of the cardio workout choices (preferably two or more) everyday.

GOOD LUCK ... MAKE YOUR HEART HAPPY!

As far as rowing in comparison to spinning or running? Many experts consider rowing on the ergometer/indoor rower or on the water a superior fitness activity. When compared to the many other choices: running, walking, stepping, biking, weight lifting, skiing, none are as complete a workout as rowing when it comes to a single exercise.

Rowing exercises all major muscle groups: legs, arms, back, abdominal, and buttocks. Legs provide most of the power of the rowing stroke; your upper body adds the rest. Rowing is one of the few aerobic activities that can actually strengthen your back.

Rowing exercises muscles through a wider range of motion than most other exercises, thereby improving and maintaining flexibility around some of the major joints. This also makes the exercise more satisfying because the rower has a sense of motion.

Rowing is a great calorie burner. Recent research showed that rowing burns calories faster than biking at the same perceived level of exertion. In other words, it feels easier to burn more calories while rowing than while biking.

Rowing is a smooth, rhythmic motion that is impact free and consider a lifelong sport, able to be enjoyed by all ages, from kids to grandparents.

The list goes on ... but one thing I've learned is that it tends to be a love it or hate it sport.  If you try and and enjoy it, you will likely get hooked as it being a lifelong sport and preferred exercise routine.