So you want to get a toned stomach?
Not really those big bulky abs that look more like turtle shields, but a flat stomach that will make you look classy in any clothes.
Using a rowing machine will work various muscles in your arms, legs, and core, which is why it can be such a great machine.
Rowing does cause a good deal of contraction in your abdominal muscles, and because of that you can definitely get a good workout in that will help tone your stomach.
A major rowing machine producer named Concept 2 has made some cool illustrations that show which muscles are being worked.
How do you really get a toned stomach (flat abs)?
You see, getting a toned stomach – which is really just flat abs – is about two things:
- Body fat percentage
- abdominal muscle development
However, it is important to note that you can have somewhat weak abs and still have a toned stomach if your body fat percentage is low enough.
On the other hand, you can have super strong and toned abs but that won’t be visible if you have body fat covering it up.
Note: There is really nothing special about “toning” any muscle. You increase muscle tissue while reducing the surrounding fat, which is what almost anyone going to the gym is interested in.
Another reason why a rowing machine can help you with your stomach is that it is an aerobic exercise that burns a fair amount of calories. If you need to burn fat in order to tone your stomach, then the rowing machine can be your new best friend.
But don’t put all your eggs in one basket. In order to burn fat more efficiently, you should combine a moderate amount of increased exercise – like the rowing machine – with a moderate calorie deficit.
I go in-depth on how to burn belly fat in this post. Or you could subscribe to my email list and get a guide + email course.
Other Reasons Why Rowing Is Awesome
The rowing machine is, in my opinion, better than other “cardio machines”. Because it is an efficient way to work many muscles at the same time while possible having less interference with your recovery if compared to things like sprinting or just running.
If you are in the market for a rowing machine, I have put together a few budget options here.
Rowing is an effective way to:
- strengthen core muscles
- burn calories
- increase VO2 Max
- increase basal metabolism
All these benefits coming from a single machine!
My name is Marcus, I am a lawyer (LL.M.) and the founder of this website. Besides sometimes doing lawyer stuff, I like to write about fitness and health and share what I have found “works” for people like YOU. If you want to know more about me and my vision for this website then you can 