The Best Cardio Machines That Help Build Muscle

Fitness is one of the trendiest activities today. The status of fitness influencers has sparked a resurgence of young people who want to go to gyms and be active. Not everyone wants to use free weights for their workouts, but cardio also gets a bad reputation for the amount of work required. However, there are ways to do both with one machine. Here are the best cardio machines that help build muscle you’ll want to consider.

Stair Climber

Stair climbers are some of the best cardio machines to burn fat and strengthen muscles. Also called step mills or StairMasters, these machines simulate walking up a never-ending flight of stairs. Many people wonder if stair climbers are better for cardio or strength training, but the answer may surprise you: they’re great for both. Using a stair climber strengthens your lower body while burning calories. Proper posture also strengthens your core.

Treadmill

A treadmill is another great muscle-building cardio machine. Most people use treadmills for running, walking, and jogging, but treadmills also have some great strength benefits you’ll want to know. Like stair climbers, treadmills induce cardiovascular endurance and strengthen the leg muscles. One way to fully optimize these benefits is through high-intensity interval training (HIIT). HIIT workouts use more oxygen and burn more calories even after exercise. Also, setting the treadmill to a high incline offers greater resistance than a flat, neutral setting, burning more calories and strengthening your core and lower body.

Rower

Lastly, don’t ignore the rowing machine. Rowers are some of the best cardio machines that help build muscle. When you use a rowing machine, you strengthen your whole body; your arms, legs, and core all get a workout. In the meantime, you also burn a high number of calories because you’re constantly moving.

Whether you opt for a wind- or water-resistant rower, be sure to learn the proper form to fully maximize your workout. Also, don’t rush it. The key to any cardio machine is time and consistency. Otherwise, you risk pre-exhausting yourself and ruining your workout.