Obesity & Weight Loss
For adults, a healthy weight is defined as the appropriate weight in relation to height. The ratio of weight-to-height is known as Body Mass Index (BMI). Individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher are defined by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as obese. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides a free online BMI calculator to help screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.
Obesity & Rowing
Rowing is suitable for all body sizes—including obese individuals who may find other exercises difficult. The Concept2 Indoor Rower fits every body with just three points of contact—the seat, handle, and footrests—and accommodates individuals who weigh up to 500 lbs. For more information about adjusting the indoor rower, see Getting Comfortable.
The impact-free nature of rowing also makes it a great exercise to combat obesity. Rowing is appropriate for overweight exercisers who may be susceptible to injuries in other sports, such as running. For example: in each stride of running, a force 5–6 times the body weight is placed on bones and joints. For an obese individual, the extra weight causes undue stress on the body which can quickly lead to injury and frustration. In rowing, the rower’s weight is supported on the sliding seat, which protects the bones and joints from such impact—allowing for more productive calorie-burning workouts.
On the Concept2 Indoor Rower, you are in complete control of the resistance. The harder you pull, the more resistance you will feel. If you row intensely, you will get an intense workout; if you row easily, you will get an easier workout. There’s no need to worry that you will be forced to work too hard.
Weight Loss & Rowing
The key to successful weight loss is consistent exercise. Exercise burns calories, so the more you can row the more calories you will burn. Making exercise a daily habit is a great goal.
For specific workouts, visit the Rowing for Weight Control section of our Training pages.
