Rowing Cycling
Muscles Used Whole body (except chest) Lower body
Range of Motion ★★★★★ ★★
Calories Burned/Hour 606 498
Pro Low impact Low impact
Con Access to rowing machine Access to bike

Winner: Rowing
The biggest differences between these cardio options are the amount of muscle mass involved and the range of motion through which it’s used. Specifically, the whole-body nature of rowing utilizes more oxygen and burns more calories. This allows you to work harder for longer periods, which yields a greater aerobic benefit. The only con we can find? The availability of stationary bikes vs. the availability of rowing machines.

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