Researchers at the National Space Biomedical Research Institute in America are currently looking how the Indoor Rower can assist astronauts, not only in terms of their general fitness, but also when they're actually in space.

Extended time in a zero gravity environment brings with it a special set of health problems, many of which, such as muscle wastage, can be dealt with through exercise. Getting a good workout in space, however, is easier said than done. There are three main criteria that scientists are looking for in a low gravity exercise routine: it uses a large muscle mass, it's non-impact, and the machine can be used in by astronauts in space. All of these criteria are met by the Indoor Rower, along with the added bonus that rowing develops both power and endurance.

The program currently underway test three groups of eight subjects, with each group spending five weeks in bed to simulate weightless conditions (or being a student). The control group will be entirely sedentary, while the other two serve as the exercise groups. One of these groups will get out of bed for 30-45 minutes of rowing, while the other group will just sit on the machine for the same length of time.

Assuming the tests go well, indoor rowing will become a key part of all future space missions.