Best Rowing Machines Reviewed and Compared

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Getting a rowing machine is an excellent way of getting a full body workout indoors. Unlike other indoor exercise machines, the rowing machine works both the upper and lower body. It is outstanding for cardiovascular workouts, bodybuilding, and weight loss. We have reviewed ten best rowing machines in the market, in which we have broken down the benefits, features, pros, cons, and the price range for each product. From this list, you can find a rowing machine that will suit your budget and preference.

Our Top 3 Picks

StaminaOffer
  • Stamina
  • 5 out of 5
    Our rating
  • Foldable
  • Price: See Here
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Sunny
  • Sunny
  • 4.6 out of 5
    Our rating
  • Affordable
  • Price: See Here
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ConceptOffer
  • Concept
  • 4.3 out of 5
    Our rating
  • Flexible
  • Price: See Here
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Types of Rowers

There are four (4) major types of rowing machines.

Air/flywheel rowers

Air rowers generate resistance from air flow(wind) against a flywheel. The benefit of the air rower is that you can automatically adjust resistance with your motion; the more you row, the more the resistance, and the slower you row, the less the resistance. It is also less resistant to wear and tear and has a smooth stroke. Experienced rowers prefer the air rower for its near natural stroke. It mimics rowing in water. The drawback is that it is noisy. Some rowing systems combine the air rowing and magnetic mechanisms for better output.

Hydraulic/piston rowers

Hydraulic rowing machines need the least space and are the most affordable. They a pair of pistons to create resistance. Hydraulic rowers are budget-friendly, smaller in size as compared to the air rowers. They are also foldable making storage easy. However, they do not give a smooth strike, require regular service, and a change in lubrication alters their resistance. They are also at times unreliable for giving consistent resistance. They may also develop a squeaking sound with continued use.

Water rowers

The water rowing machine derives its resistance from a paddle and water patented flywheel system. Just like the air rowing machines, the faster you row, the more the resistance. However, it is smoother and less noisy as compared to the air rower. It makes some swooshing water noise due to the water, which some people find calming while to others it is annoying. Water rowers have wooden and metallic devices. The wooden design is better for the floor and helps in minimizing noise. It is more expensive and tends to be larger than other types.

Magnetic rowers

The magnetic rower is the quietest of the four types and one of the most popular rowers for homes. This rower generates its resistance from an electromagnetic brake system. Besides providing a smooth stroke and a quiet workout, magnetic rowers are also adjustable. They can be adjusted digitally or manually using mechanical sliders. Most magnetic models are foldable making them easy to store when they are not in use. They are also smaller than air and water rowers.

10 Best Rowing Machines

 

Rowing Machine

Rowing Machine
Stamina Body Trac Glider uses the hydraulic single-gas shock system to generate resistance. It has a knob that you can use to adjust resistance to 12 different levels manually. It has a strong and durable steel body frame, and an aluminum center beam. This rowing machine offers a near natural rowing experience with its dual handles which give the arms a full range of motion.

It is smaller in size compared to other rowing machines, making it suitable for homes that have storage and space challenges. It can also be folded for easy storage when it is not in use.

Another benefit is that it has a digital display that shows a detailed feedback of each rowing workout. It shows your pace, distance covered, the time taken, strokes rate and calories burned for each session.
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Features/Specifications

Has a hydraulic resistance system
Steel frame
Adjustable resistance
Foldable for easy storage
Has a detailed display monitor
Maximum user weight of 250lbs
Warranty period is 1 year for the frame and ninety days for movable parts
Usage recommendation: use a mat beneath the rower as there is a possibility of an oil leak

Price/Value

It offers quality service at a very reasonable price. Its great workout features, comfort, and durable steel body frame are worth investing in.

Verdict

This product is an excellent pick for a home equipment, for both beginners and moderate rowers. It is small, easy to use, foldable and gives a detailed feedback for you to track your fitness progress. Its handles are one of its strongest selling points since they give a full range of motion.
Pros

Easy to handle and move

Offers a detailed feedback for each workout

Adjustable resistance levels

Fairly affordable

Full range of motion

Durable steel frame

Easy to assemble

Cons

Susceptible to oil leaking

2. Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5515

2. Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5515
Sunny Health & Fitness uses the magnetic resistance technology with eight adjustable resistance levels. It is virtually quiet and offers a smooth and consistent resistance with every stroke. It has a durable, heavy-duty steel frame that gives a longtime service and is suitable for weights up to 250lbs.

This rowing machine is comfortable to use, with fully padded seats, non-slip handlebars, anti-slip foot pedals and adjustable foot straps. The foot pedals are large enough to be used by most foot sizes. Its transportation wheels make it easy to move around, so you do not have to pull or lift it when you want to change its position.

With Sunny Health & Fitness, you can monitor your fitness goals with its LCD screen that shows time taken, calories burned and total row counts for each of your workout sessions
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Features/Specifications

Uses magnetic resistance system
Has 8 adjustable resistance levels
Has a digital LCD that shows time, count, calories and total count of each session
Fully cushioned seat
Non-slip handlebars
Anti-slip foot pedals and adjustable foot straps
Is foldable
Has inbuilt transportation wheels
Warranty period for frame is 1 year and 90 days for movable parts
Maximum user weight of 250lbs
Dimensions: 82L x 19W x 23H in.

Price/value

Compared to other rowing machines, Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 is an incredible budget product. It is reasonably priced, yet it does not compromise on quality. Its price is actually one of the strongest selling points.

Verdict

This product is ideal for home use; it is incredibly quiet, durable and foldable. With its 8 resistance levels, you can adjust it to fit your fitness level goals. If you are interested in tracking your progress and losing weight, then it is a perfect choice too. It displays total calories burned, row count and time taken after each session.
Pros

Adjustable foot straps

Anti-slip handlebars

Digital monitor that displays time, total row count and calories burned

Easy five assembling steps

Cons

Short warranty period

3. Concept 2 Model D

3. Concept 2 Model D
Concept 2 has had unrivaled durability and endurance features for a long time. Its strength, resilience, and durability make it suitable for both heavy commercial use and light home use. It uses the flywheel and damper design that gives smooth and even strokes. Other flywheel models are noisy, but the concept 2 combines a fan engineered technology to minimize noise. With this design, you can achieve a higher resistance level by paddling faster and harder. You can also adjust the resistance setting using the damper settings, a benefit that is not common to other flywheel designs.

Its frame and ergonomic design deliver a comfortable and safe exercise environment. It has a 10-degree handlebar bend, which gives a natural arm and hand position. The footrests are also adjustable to maximize your comfort while working out. The seats are padded and use an aluminum rail which gives a smooth seat movement.

Concept 2 has an advanced performance monitor that displays detailed data for every rowing workout. Concept 2 model D is also superior to other rowing machines as it comes with a USB port that enables connection to a PC or smartphone using Bluetooth.

Therefore, you can transfer your workout data and track your daily progress. It is foldable into two pieces, making it for easy storage. Its caster wheels make it easy to transport, without straining or hurting your back.
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Features/specifications

Has a performance monitor that gives detailed rowing feedback of distance covered, calories burned, strokes per minute, pulse rate and heart rate.
Has a USB cable port to transfer data to a personal computer.
Is compatible with iPhone and Android phones through Bluetooth
Uses flywheel resistance model
Flexible handlebars and footrests
Foldable for easy storage
Has caster wheels that make it mobile
Warranty is 5 years for the frame and 2 years for the moving parts
Dimensions: 243.8 x 61 x 113 cm/ 96.0″ x 24.0″ x 14.0″in. wgt 26 Kg/ 50 pounds

Price/value

Concept 2 model D is in the higher price range, but it is a worthy and solid investment. It is durable, dependable, comfortable to use and is suitable for heavy and lifetime use. It also focuses on giving the best after your workout by giving you feedback for each rowing session, allowing you to know whether you are getting better or not. All these features are worth the price.

Verdict

If you want a rowing machine that will serve you for years, this one is a solid buy. Sometimes you have to pay for quality rather than obtaining equipment that will not serve your needs entirely. With this rowing machine, you can maximize on your fitness by storing your workout data, to monitor your fitness progress. Whether you want to buy it for home workouts or commercial use, it is strong enough for both. For all these reasons, concept 2 model D rowing machine is worth owning.
Pros

Easy to assemble and use

Durable

Smooth stroke

Has a performance monitor that gives detailed feedback for each workout session

USB port that enables one to send data to a PC or smartphone.

Is mobile

Has Bluetooth connectivity

Compatible with iPhone and Android smartphones

Cons

Noise

8ft long thus requires much space

4. Water

4. Water
Water Rower Natural uses water and flywheel resistance design to give a natural rowing experience. To increase the resistance of this product, you have to paddle faster just like other air rower types. It has a sleek frame made of ash wood and stained with honey oak, which makes it absorb vibration and noise. This feature makes it quieter than other water resistance rowing machines. This design also makes it durable and can serve you for a lifetime.

You can monitor your progress by using its digital display screen which shows the intensity, stroke rate, heart rate, zone bar, time and distance covered for each workout. Its monitor is also compatible with an optional chest heart rate monitor, to give advanced and accurate readings. It is easy to use and comfortable, with a padded and steady seat and a dual rail design that gives the seat a smooth move.

It is convenient in that it allows you to have personalized and built-in rowing workout programs, based on your desired distance and duration goals. Its maximum user weight is higher (1000 pounds) as compared to most rowers.

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Features/Specifications

Uses water and flywheel resistance design
Fully padded seats
Has a performance monitor that displays intensity, stroke rate, heart rate, calories burned and calories burned during each workout.
Warranty period is one year and is upgraded to 3 years upon registration
Maximum user weight is 1000 pounds
Dimensions: 84W x 21H x 22D, weight 24 pounds

Price/Verdict

This is one of the highest priced rowers. However, it is built for heavy commercial use and home use, for rowing beginners and elite athletes. This high budget product is also worth it for its durability; it can serve you for a lifetime.

Verdict

This product is an excellent buy if you want a smooth and near natural rowing workouts. It is suitable for home and commercial use. If you maintain it well, it can serve you for a very long time. Even better is that it is comfortable has a smooth stroke and gives a natural rowing experience.
Pros

Smooth strokes

Easy to assemble

Easy to store

Has a digital display monitor

Cons

Footrests not adjustable

5. Velocity

5. Velocity
Velocity Magnetic Rower uses the drum magnetic control system and electronic control system to generate resistance. This design gives smooth strokes with adjustable resistance levels.

It comes with a built-in and an optional chest heart rate monitor that gives accurate readings of the heart rate and intensity of your training depending on how fast your heart beats.

It has 6 preset and 6 manual workout programs to follow, which makes it easy for beginners. On comfort, it has a molded-foam padded seat, sturdy frame, and non-slip pedals to maintain a safe and comfortable position.
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Features/Specifications

Uses the magnetic resistance system
Electronic tension control
Adjustable resistance levels
Has a digital monitor that shows time taken, strokes per minute, distance covered, calories burned and heart rate.
Seat is fully padded with foam for comfort
Has a foldable design
Comes with 12 workout programs
Maximum user weight is 275lbs
Dimensions: 80"L x 20"W x 29"H
Warranty is 5 years for the frame, 90 days for the monitor and 30 days for movable parts

Price/Value

This product is moderately priced but has excellent features. It is quiet, comfortable to use, has an advanced heart rate monitor and a detailed display screen.

Verdict

Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower is a good buy for a home exercise equipment. It is quiet, has adjustable resistance levels with very smooth strokes. Its detailed monitor and advanced heart rate monitor are worth considering if you want to track your fitness level closely.
Pros

Chest heart rate monitor

Multifunction built-in digital monitor

Preset workout programs

Very quiet

Adjustable resistance

Easy to assemble

Padded handlebars

Cons

Users complain that some parts break easily

No on and off switch

6. Kettler Home

6. Kettler Home
Kettler Favorit uses a hydraulic system to generate resistance. As compared to other hydraulic rowing machines, the Kettler Favorit has two hydraulic cylinders to provide better, even and consistent resistance. Its resistance is adjustable by repositioning the piston’s clamps for each hydraulic cylinder.

It allows the user to monitor workout sessions through its digital monitor which tracks the number of rows, distance covered, the time taken, calories burned, pulse rate and pace. Beginners get preset workout programs while the advanced users may set their exercise programs. The monitor grades the user’s cardio fitness from level one to six.

Comfort is assured as the seat is fully padded, slightly raised and has sealed ball bearings for smooth movement.
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Features/Specifications

Uses two hydraulic cylinders to create resistance
Adjustable resistance with 1 to 50 knurl marks for adjusting
Comes with an earlobe clip sensor for tracking pulse rate
Has a detailed high contrast LCD screen display
Has a durable carbon steel frame
Biomechanical footplates
Warranty: lifetime for the frame and three years for moving parts
Max user weight is 285lbs
Dimensions: 49 x 31 x 10in

Price/Value

This product is reasonably priced considering that it has advanced features and an almost indestructible carbon steel frame that comes with a lifetime warranty. Also, putting into consideration that it is superior to other hydraulic rowing machines in that it has two cylinders that create a consistent resistance.

Verdict

Kettle is worth considering for beginners and moderate users. It comes with preset workouts, detailed cardiac monitor and even better, it grades your fitness level. Even more, it has a durable body construction that comes with a lifetime warranty. So, you are sure of a life service.
Pros

Two hydraulic cylinders to create an even resistance

Detailed digital monitor

Comfortable to use

Has floor protectors

Large biomechanical footrests

Preset workout programs

Cons

A bit difficult to assemble

On and off squeaking noise

7. Proform 440R

7. Proform 440R
The Proform 440R Rower stands out because it can be used both as a rowing machine and a low pulley station, which is suitable for bicep curls, deadlifts, deltoid raises and triceps extensions. It uses the light flywheel with mechanical resistance system, has eight resistance levels and gives smooth strokes.

The handles are padded to give a comfortable and firm grip. The footrests have adjustable foot straps to give stability while rowing. The seat is also ergonomically molded for extra comfort.
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Features/Specifications

Has flywheel and mechanical resistance design
Has a dual training action for rowing and a low pulley station for upper body workouts
Eight adjustable resistance levels
Sizable LCD monitor showing strokes per minute, distance covered, time and calorie expenditure.
Non-slip handle
Adjustable foot straps
Compact in size and foldable
Maximum user weight: 250lbs
Warranty: 5 years for the body frame and 90 days for labor and movable parts
Dimensions: 77L x 21W x 38H in

Price/Value

Proform 440R is easy on the pocket and has commendable features. It is two in one, a rower and a low pulley station. Users can maximize on cardio and strength training for the upper and lower body.

Verdict

This product is worth buying for a home equipment workout machine, for losing weight and for any moderate or intermediate rower. It has a compact size and folds easily thus storage and space will not an issue. It is worth buying for both cardio and strength training features, comfort and budget.
Pros

Compact size & foldable

Light

LCD monitor

8 adjustable resistance levels

Both rowing machine and low pulley station

Smooth stroke

Budget-friendly

Cons

Low user weight

Difficult to assemble

8. First Degree Fitness Newport

8. First Degree Fitness Newport
First Degree Fitness Newport uses the adjustable water resistance system. It has an appealing and durable body frame. Its tank system can hold 9 to 17 liters of water, making it superior to other water rowers. Just like most other water rowers, it has a splashing water sound, which some people find calming and motivating.

The resistance levels can be adjusted in two ways. First, you can increase by rowing faster, just like the air resistance rowers. Secondly, you can change the settings to lower or raise the resistance.

It is heavily built for home gyms, commercial gyms, and medical fitness centers. Its monitor displays time taken, calories burned, strokes per minute, and the heart rate for each workout session. It has a USB port which users can use to transfer data to a handset or personal computer.
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Features/Specification

Uses water resistance system
Adjustable resistance levels
Has preset workouts
Foldable
Fully cushioned seats
Detailed data display monitor
Maximum user weight is 300lbs
Warranty: 5 years for body frame, 3 years for the tank, non-wearing parts 3 years and 1 year for wearable parts.
Dimensions: 21L x 78W x 20H in

Price/Value

This product is among the highest priced rowers, but it is a great value product because of its durability, comfort and superior features.

Verdict

This rower is a durable and reliable equipment, worth buying for a home fitness gym. It has preset workouts to follow through, gives a detailed feedback for each workout, and better, has a USB port for transferring the data to a PC or handset. Also, its resistance levels are fit for most fitness levels.
Pros

Detailed LCD monitor

Smooth strokes

Consistent resistance

Easy to assemble and use

USB connection port

Preset workouts

Foldable

Comfortable to use

Cons

Heavy

9. Sole SR500

9. Sole SR500
The Sole SR500 rower is superior to other rowers as it combines air and magnetic resistance systems. It has sixteen adjustable resistance levels, and it allows the user to control resistance with its controlled tension handlebar, without slowing down. It delivers a smooth stroke and a reasonably quiet workout.

It has an interactive monitor that allows the user to choose twelve preset workouts with different resistance and intensity levels. Also, the screen shows detailed data of each workout. Its high sitting position is suitable for someone with a knee injury, arthritis, recovering from a joint surgery or older.

Sole SR500 Rower has a durable frame and comes with a lifetime warranty for the body, three years for the movable parts and one year for labor.
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Features/Specifications

Hybrid of air/flywheel and magnetic resistance systems
Adjustable resistance levels
12 preset workout programs
High and tilted seat
Textured grips
Large enough to accommodate most heights
Has transport wheels
Foldable for easy storage
Warranty: lifetime body frame warranty, 3 years for movable parts and 1 year for labor
Maximum user weight: 500lbs
Dimensions: 94 inch x 18 inch x 46 inch

Price/Value

This product has a reasonable price for the features that it offers. It is durable, comfortable and gentle on the joints, has preset workouts, and deliver smooth strokes with adjustable resistance levels.

Verdict

The Sole SR500 rowing machine is an excellent buy for novice and intermediate rowers. It is more durable than other rowers, gentler on the joints (especially the knees), comes with preset workouts, has incredible smooth strokes and is relatively quiet.
Pros

Easy to assemble

Multiple programmed workouts with different intensities

Detailed screen display

Adjustable resistance levels

Smooth strokes

Has both wireless and chest heart rate monitors

High seat

Cons

Heavy and large

Seat is not so comfortable

10. NordicTrack RW200

10. NordicTrack RW200
Nordic Track Rower utilizes air/flywheel resistance system. In comparison with other air resistance rowers, the Nordic Track Rower has an adjustable resistance feature. It is also one of the few rowers that are compatible with music players to provide personalized entertainment when working out.

It is excellent for beginners as it comes with about 20 preset workout programs with different intervals and intensities. It shows the watts, strokes per minute, the total count of strokes, duration, calorie expenditure, and distance covered for every workout.

Comfort while using this rower is also assured as it has a seat that is cushioned and raised from the ground, the handles are padded, and the pedals are adjustable.
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Features/Specifications

Has the air resistance design
Display monitor showing watts, strokes per minute, the total count of strokes, duration, calorie expenditure, and distance covered.
Foldable
20 preset workout programs with different intensities
Largely sized foot pedals and adjustable foot straps.
Warranty: 5 years for the frame and 1 year for labor and movable parts
Maximum user weight: 250lbs
Dimensions: 84.75L x 22W x 43.5H

Price/Value

It is moderately priced and is worthy for its features. It has a durable frame, offers a smooth stroke, preset workout programs and gives feedback on each workout.

Verdict

This low-weight rowing machine is worth considering for its outstanding feature of compatibility with most entertainment systems. It is also worth to look at if you want to go easy on your knees, as it has a raised sitting position. It offers an excellent resistance system and comes with 20 preset workout programs, so you do not have to worry about the exercises to start with.
Pros

Adjustable resistance levels

Compatible with MP3 players and iPod audio speakers

Display monitor showing detailed data for every workout

Smooth strokes

Foldable & comfortable to use

Has preset workout programs

Cons

No heart rate monitor

Low user weight capacity

Benefits of rowing machines

Many people think that rowing machines are only good for the upper body. Surprisingly, rowers are excellent for upper body, lower body, and the core. They work nine major muscle groups of the body and are an ideal way of achieving optimal cardio fitness and bodybuilding. They have low impact on the knees, thus suitable for individuals with arthritis or recovering knee surgery. They are fit for the beginners and experts, the young and the old, the outdoor lovers and the indoor enthusiasts. Rowers’ immense benefits outdo most other indoor workout machines. The benefits include

Whole body workout

A rowing machine workout gives an intense full body workout involving the back, shoulders, hamstrings, glutes and the core. While rowing, you start off by using your hamstrings, glutes and calves to extend your legs and thighs, as you use the core and back to give stability, then the triceps, wrists and biceps work to pull the handlebars. Another benefit is that rowing gives a careful balance of fat loss and muscle gain. The result of regular rowing is a ripped core, strong upper body, and a well-cut lower body.

Muscle building

The resistance offered by rowing machines is an excellent way of toning and building muscles. It particularly strengthens the abdomen, back, shoulders and legs. To make the muscles work harder while rowing, increase the resistance of the rower; the workout gets more challenging with increasing resistance.

Cardio fitness

Regular rowing improves the endurance of the cardiovascular system by raising the heartbeat and improving the lung capacity by raising oxygen intake. Cardio exercise is great for lowering the risk of heart attacks, stroke, atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. To maximize on cardio benefits, use low resistance to make it easy for you to row fast.

Low impact on the joints

If you have joint and weight problems, then high impact exercises may cause more harm. As compared to other cardio exercise equipment, rowing machines exert less impact on the knees and hip joints. They are also suitable for strengthening knees or hip joints after surgery.

Improves mood

They say that exercise is the most underutilized antidepressant. This is true since exercise; particularly cardiovascular exercise causes a release of endorphins which are responsible for elevating mood. A session of rowing in the morning boosts your mood and metabolism leaving you energized all day long, while rowing in the evening relieves you of the day’s stresses and gives you a deep and quality night of sleep.

Weight loss

Rowing machines are one of the most effective home workout equipment. Coupled with a healthy diet, a rowing machine can effectively help in fat loss. One hour of rowing can burn 600 to 1000 calories. The secret is to increase the intensity of your rowing sessions. Thus, frequent rowing can help to achieve daily calorific deficit needed for weight loss. The beauty of a rowing machine is that it burns fats as it tones muscles.

Factors to consider when buying a rowing machine

Features

Rowing machines range from simple to complex. Basic rowers tend to have few features while complex types have more advanced features. They display distance covered, pace, calories burned and time taken. Some have USB ports while others use Bluetooth to send data to a mobile device or a personal computer.

Other important features to consider are height and comfort of the seat, the durability of the footplates, and the handlebars, size of the rower and foldability.

Resistance type

There are four different types of rowing machines, and each has its pros and cons. Considering your individual resistance requirements and fitness goals is important. High resistance types are excellent for muscle building while the low resistance ones are the best option for cardio.

Pricing

Budget is a major factor for almost everyone, and there is a rower for every budget. The cheaper models may come with a price to pay in the end as some are poorly made. You may spend more on maintenance and repair. A high-quality rowing machine design comes with a high price, but it guarantees longterm service. However, if you need a basic rowing machine for light use, you do not have to break the bank. Hydraulic rowing machines are mostly on the lower budget scale.

Space

Not unless you have a room designated for home workouts, then the size of the rowing machine is an important consideration. The typical length of most rowing machines is about two meters. The hydraulic rowers take the least space, and the can be folded and stored out of sight. The magnetic rowers come in a compact size that can also be folded.

Noise

If noise is an issue to you, then a magnetic or water rowers is the best pick. The magnetic rower is the quietest of them all while the water rower makes minimal noise of splashing water. Some people say that the swooshing of the water is relaxing rather than disturbing. The air rower is the noisest while the hydraulic may develop an annoying squeaking sound.

However, a quiet rower is not everybody’s preference. Some prefer the swooshing sound of water rowers while others are motivated by more noise from an air/flywheel rower.

Number of people using the equipment

Some rowing machines are suitable for light use while others are built for heavy commercial use. Therefore, it is important to choose one that meets usage demands. The consideration of weight of the person(s) using it is equally important. If a user exceeds the manufacturer’s weight limit recommendation, you risk damaging the rower.

The best advice is that you will benefit most if your rowing machine is durable and meets your fitness needs. Sometimes it is better to sacrifice time and save money for a proper home equipment. A rowing machine is an equipment that can serve you for a lifetime, so why rush to buying the wrong one?

Maintenance

Maintaining your rowing machine prevents constant breakdowns and ensures that it is always in good condition to serve you. Here are maintenance tips that will make sure that your rowing machine gives you years of quality service:

  • Place a mat on the floor to protect both the floor and the machine. Using a mat under a hydraulic rowing machine is of particular importance as it can experience oil leaks from time to time.
  • The user should not exceed the maximum weight recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Store it in a dry room to prevent rusting
  • Wipe sweat off the rower after every workout to prevent rusting and wearing off of the color
  • Dust the guide rail weekly to ensure that you will always get smooth strokes
  • Check for loose screws and fasten them
  • Replace any worn out parts
  • Lubricate the chain links and pistons often
  • For water rowing machines, change the water as often as recommended by the manufacturer

Product Criteria for evaluation

Getting a home fitness equipment has become popular because of busy schedules that limit time to get to the gym. Exercise machines cost a lot, so you cannot afford to go wrong by buying the wrong one. It is not easy to pick the best rowing machine one because there are hundreds of them in the market. We combed through manufacturers’ websites, online and physical shops, user reviews and ratings, in order to get you the best products in the market. This is the criteria that we used to come up with our list.

Durability

When buying a rowing machine, quality and durability must be on the top of the checklist. Failure to which you may end up with huge maintenance bills, you may have to replace it with a brand new one, or you may end up giving up rowing altogether. For this reason, we put much emphasis on reliability, strength, and resilience of each rowing machine that we chose. Each product is made of a durable body frame, and most have a long warranty period.

Brand Reputation

When it comes to making a buying decision, the brand is a significant factor. We chose brands that have are reputable for durability, comfort, and safety. Sometimes the leading brands may be out of the budget, and that is why we also chose brands that are budget friendly yet still give some of the best performances, enough to rival the highest priced ones.

User Reviews and Ratings

Customer reviews, ratings and feedback are indirect ways of finding out the best products in the market. We went through hundreds of user reviews from various trusted online sources and chose products with the highest ratings backed by detailed positive reviews from verified customers. From the reviews, we were able to pick out important details that manufacturers may have left out on the labels of the products. We also took note of complaints that the users gave, so you can know what to expect when using the product.

Pricing

Pricing is a very critical factor when it comes to rowing machines. They can be expensive and can go up to $4000. However, there are affordable options that can go below $200. Some cheaper options may end up costing you more due to repairs and maintenance, while expensive ones do not always guarantee quality. Therefore, we carefully balanced the cost and features that each rowing machine has to offer. From the list, you can choose a product that will serve your fitness goals while still within your budget.

FAQs

How does a rowing machine benefit the body?

A rowing machine is one of the superior home workout equipment in terms of overall health and fitness benefits. Top benefits include cardio fitness, muscle toning, and weight loss.

How many calories can a rowing machine burn?

Within one hour of rowing, you can burn between 600 and 1000 calories, depending on the intensity of your workout.

Can it help me lose weight?

A rowing machine is excellent for burning calories. An hour of rowing can burn over 1000 calories. A calorie deficit coupled with a healthy diet will definitely make you lose weight.

Are all rowing machines similar?

No, there are four types of rowing machines air, water, magnetic and hydraulic rowers. They all differ in regards to cost, portability, resistance, durability and noise levels.

Which is the one for me?

It is difficult to pinpoint the best rowing machine since we all differ in weight, fitness goals and preferences. The best rowing machine is the one that serves your needs, fits your likeness, is durable and offers reasonable resistance and is within your budget.

Which makes the least noise?

The magnetic rowing machine virtually quiet. The water design has a swooshing noise which is considered by most, to be relaxing. The hydraulic type may make squeaking sounds now and then. The air rower is the noisiest as it uses moving air (wind) to generate resistance.

Where can I buy a rowing machine?

You can purchase a rowing machine from sports equipment outlets or form online sellers. With the advanced technology, the internet has become a world of convenience. Purchasing online gives you the benefit of comparing prices and customer reviews. An online platform like Amazon offers shipping and customer friendly services with a reasonable return policy.


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