That's Fit

Rowing machines have been a fitness club staple for many years. It's a great exercise for legs, upper body, and core strength. In addition, when used properly, rowing machines offer cardio benefits as well.

Indo-Row takes rowing machines to a new level. It's an intense, instructor-led group class using rowing machines. The objective is not on speed, but on strength and synchronicity with the rest of the class. The group works together, just like a crew rowing a boat on water would work together. The classes are usually 50 minutes long. And the workout is intense -- a 145-pound woman can burn 400-600 calories.

Check to see if your gym is going to start this class anytime soon. If not, call around and see if any other gyms in the area offer the class and will let you in on a day pass. Would you rather take your rowing outdoors? Chris fills us in on the Row to Beijing Challenge.

The gym may have flat screen TVs for you to watch while you burn some calories on the rowing machine, but how cool would it be to actually get out in the water and start paddling?

Kayaking is a fun and exciting way to put in a solid workout. Even as a beginner, it's not terribly uncommon to burn upwards of 400 calories an hour. And, as you become more and more aggressive in your stroke and are able to take on more challenging waterways, the workout -- as well as the whole experience -- only gets better from there.

Think there can't possibly be a place to kayak near where you live? Think again. There's kayaking to be done just about anywhere. Heck, even if you live in New York City, you can still get some paddling in. Group trips down the Hudson River are available, as are half-day paddles that can take you right past the Statue of Liberty!! Visit Manhattan Kayak Company for more information.

Fitzness Fiends is a section devoted to you, the reader! We all have learned so much on our path to becoming more fit, and now it's time to learn from and inspire each other! Fitzness Fiends are constantly working to better themselves. Some are perfect, some are not. All have health on the mind. Please send Fitz your answers to these questions with a photo of yourself. Time for you to be the motivator!

Name: Jim Stephens

Age: 79. I'm a Scorpio. Watch out Baby!

Occupation: Gym Rat

How often do you exercise? Eight days a week!

What type of exercise do you do? I use the rowing machine for 40 minutes each day, and use the hand bike often too. I also do the structured 'line' of strength training equipment here at my gym.

Depending on where you live and your weather preferences, kayaking season may just be getting started or it may be finishing up. And if you have no idea which then maybe you should consider finding out, because kayaking can be great exercise for both your mind and your spirit. Rowing and paddling are great upper body workouts that can also help you improve flexibility, circulation, and joint health. Plus getting out on the water, away from the stresses of your everyday life, can really boost and rejuvenate your spirit.

If you're interested in trying it consider taking a class, and research what's available in your area because there may even be a paddling club that can help you meet others in the hobby.

Well, folks, summer's coming and there's nothing I like more to do when it's hot out than spend a good chunk of time in the water, whether I'm swimming through it or floating over it. What are your favourite water activities? Me, I love canoeing, rafting, tubing and wake boarding. Spending time in a boat is a great way to enjoy the sun and get some activity, so if, like me, you're growing tired of the treadmill, I suggest you head to the nearest lake or ocean for some fun on the water. It's not the first activity that people think of for fitness, but it's fun and it can be a great workout if you want it to be.

For those of you who crave activity, you can spend your water time riding the rapids in a raft or kayak. All you need is a fast-moving river, life jackets and, or course, a boat, but if you're a novice, be sure to seek out the advice of someone who knows the river.