Rowing machine, add to workout?

[pete6032]

My work gym got all new cardio equipment and they added in a rowing machine. My fitness goals are to build muscle in all areas as I am naturally very lean. I usually do the standard exercises including squats, deadlift, pull ups, Triceps dips, bench press, etc. Is there any benefit to adding in time on the rowing machine? Would it help build muscle?

 

[deadlyapp]

Any and all cardio machines really will do nothing for building muscle, only burning calories. With that said, the rower is one of the best full body cardio movements you can do, easily exceeding 1200-1400 cal/hr with a fairly easy pace.

If you want to build muscle in the areas that are affected by a rower, then do bent over rows, low rows, lat pull downs, pull ups, chin ups, and then various leg movements like deadlifts, squats, lunges, etc.