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Your gym time should be spent wisely to ensure you’re making progress. Don’t waste time on machines that won’t help you. Let’s talk about the best cardio machine for a killer full-body workout.
Are you ready? Cardio exercises are crucial for burning excess fat. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans suggest that adults should engage in 150 minutes of moderate physical activity and include two days of muscle-strengthening exercises in their weekly routine. To kickstart your fitness journey, let’s unveil the top cardio machine for an exceptional full-body workout.
In This Article:
Which Cardio Machine Provides the Best Full-Body Workout?

Brittany Rubio, the general manager of The Edge Fitness Clubs in Farmington Hills, recommends the rowing machine as the supreme cardio equipment for a comprehensive full-body workout. This machine engages almost all major muscle groups, including your core, back, arms, legs, and shoulders, offering a fantastic low-impact, high-intensity cardio session.
“It’s one of the best exercises for your heart health and is a great way to improve your ROM (range of motion),” Rubio tells us.
Rowing utilizes a push-pull motion, which makes it ultra-effective. For instance, the “drive” phase fires up your lower body (glutes, hamstrings, and quads), while the “pull” phase builds strength in your arms, back, and shoulders.
“This synergy creates a balanced workout that elevates heart rate and builds muscle simultaneously,” says Rubio. “It can be utilized as an explosive exercise, or low-impact workout, which both have benefits for muscle development and improvement in overall mobility.”
The Benefits of Rowing

The rowing machine is a great way to build strength and endurance while burning calories.
- It builds strength. Rowing provides resistance with each stroke, helping tone your muscles and boost endurance.
- It increases endurance. Rowing puts your cardiovascular system to work, improving stamina.
- It torches calories. Rowing burns calories fast because it demands a lot of energy and recruits your entire body.
- It’s joint-friendly. Rowing is an excellent, low-impact choice, as it’s easy on the joints. “[It’s] a more accommodating workout for those who struggle with joint pain,” says Rubio. “Great for all age ranges and fitness levels!”
Alexa Mellardo