Rowing is a great cardiovascular and strength-building exercise which provides an efficient, total body strength and endurance workout, according to a top exercise physiologist and fitness consultant.

"The smooth, low-impact rowing motion works the whole body, is easy to learn and can challenge any fitness level," said Elizabeth Quinn, adding that her personal favourite was the Concept2 rowing machine.

"With the proper technique, rowing will work all the major muscle groups of the core, arms and legs in a balanced manner," she added.

As well as being great for general fitness training, indoor rowing machines are also used by elite action sports athletes such as boxers, motocross riders, surfers and practitioners of mixed martial arts.