Best Rowing Machine For Home
Looking for a challenging full-body workout, a rowing machine is a great choice. Rowing is a total-body workout of the muscles in your body. Check our picks for a great workout at home!
If you're looking for a challenging full-body workout, a rowing machine is a great choice. They engage almost every muscle in your body, providing an excellent cardio workout.
Plus, it is low-impact and easy to use - perfect for beginners. So if you're looking to buy a rowing machine, be sure to check out this article first!
Read on to find the best rowing machines for your needs!
How To Choose The Best Rowing Machines
Choosing the best rowing machine for your home gym or fitness needs can transform your workout routine by providing a full-body, low-impact cardio workout. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a rowing machine that fits your goals, budget, and available space.
1. Understand the Types of Rowing Machines
Rowing machines come in different types, each with unique resistance mechanisms that impact the feel and intensity of your workout. Here’s a breakdown of the main types:
- Air Resistance: Popular in commercial gyms, air-resistance rowers offer a smooth rowing experience where resistance increases with effort. These are ideal if you want a challenging workout.
- Magnetic Resistance: Known for their quiet operation, magnetic rowers are great for home use. They provide adjustable resistance levels, making them versatile for beginners and pros alike.
- Water Resistance: Water rowers mimic the sensation of real rowing. They create resistance using water-filled tanks, which not only give a smooth and realistic feel but also add a serene water sound.
- Hydraulic Resistance: Compact and affordable, hydraulic rowers use pistons for resistance. While they’re less smooth than other types, they’re ideal for small spaces and budget-conscious users.
2. Consider Space and Storage Needs
Think about where you'll place the rowing machine and how much space it requires. Some machines, like foldable models, are perfect for smaller spaces, while others may need a permanent spot. Before buying, check the machine’s dimensions, and be sure you have enough room to perform the full rowing motion comfortably.
3. Determine Your Budget
Rowing machines range in price from under $300 to over $2,000, with options for every budget. Less expensive models often use hydraulic or basic magnetic resistance and offer essential features. High-end models like Concept2 or WaterRower provide a more robust and realistic rowing experience but at a higher price point.
4. Look for Key Features
A good rowing machine should have features that improve your comfort and help track your performance. Look for:
- Performance Monitor: Opt for a machine with a digital display that shows stats like time, strokes, distance, calories, and heart rate (if applicable). Advanced monitors may even connect to apps or offer virtual rowing programs.
- Adjustable Foot Straps: Comfortable, secure foot straps are essential for stability during your workout.
- Comfortable Seat and Handle: A cushioned seat and ergonomic handle can prevent discomfort during longer sessions.
- Noise Level: If you’re working out in shared spaces, consider quieter machines like magnetic rowers over air or water models.
5. Evaluate the Build Quality and Durability
If you plan on using your rowing machine frequently, durability is crucial. Machines made of higher-quality materials, like metal frames or durable plastics, will stand the test of time. Check reviews to see how well the machine performs over time and consider the weight limit to ensure it’s suitable for all users.
6. Consider Warranty and Customer Support
A good warranty indicates confidence in the product’s durability. Look for at least a one-year warranty for parts and a longer one for the frame. Also, check customer support reviews, as they can be essential if you ever need help with setup or repairs.
7. Test It Out or Read Reviews
If possible, try out a rowing machine in a store or read online reviews from people with similar fitness goals. This will give you insight into the machine’s feel, comfort, and ease of use.
8. Think About Connectivity and Smart Features
Many high-end rowing machines offer Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling them to sync with fitness apps, offer live or on-demand rowing classes, and track your progress over time. Machines like the Hydrow or NordicTrack RW900 provide interactive workout experiences, ideal for those who prefer guided workouts.
When choosing the best rowing machine, prioritize your needs, from workout intensity and budget to space and comfort. With the right machine, you can enjoy a full-body workout from home that builds strength, endurance, and cardiovascular fitness.
Top Picks
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine
Specification of Concept2 Indoor Rowing Machine
- Product Dimensions: 24"D x 96"W x 14"H
- Max. Weight: 500 pounds
- Resistance Mechanism: Air
- Item Weight: 57.32 pounds
- Frame Material: Stainless Steel, Aluminum
- Display: PM5 performance monitor
Why We Love Concept2 Rowing Machine
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is the top-end model of indoor rowing machines, and it's beloved by rowers for its unbeatable performance and data-tracking prowess. With this machine, you'll get a smooth, comfortable workout and you'll be able to keep track of your progress with the simple-to-use logbook.
All that data will be synced, so you can enter competitions and pit yourself against other users over set distances. The flywheel is common to all air-resistance machines, producing a white noise that some rowers find louder than a magnetic rowing machine and less appealing than the swoosh of the water rower, but the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine is still a favorite for its unbeatable features. Get on board and experience all that this rowing machine has to offer!
What You Should Know about Concept2 Rowing Machine
The dependable performance of the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rower has made it the best-selling rowing machine in the world for over 40 years. Used by elite athletes for competitive training, the versatile Model D fits in as well in fitness facilities and home gyms as it does in boathouses around the world. The Model D fits your goals and your budget, offering a low-impact exercise accessible to anyone of any age.
Measure your progress with reliable, comparable data on every stroke. Workout options include time, distance, and intervals. Easy on your eyes with a backlit LCD. Wireless Bluetooth and ANT+ compatibility for heart rate monitoring or apps.
Air-resistance flywheel responds to every stroke. Control the airflow with an easy change of the damper. Very minimal noise with a very smooth feel. Also easy to assemble with only 8 screws. Rolls smoothly on caster wheels while fully assembled. Separates into two pieces for storage and releases quickly without tools using a frame lock mechanism.
Points to Consider Before Purchasing
- Excellent value for money with the feature it provides
- It is an industry-standard model used in competitions
- Reliable and robust with readily available replacement parts
- No in-built apps, fancy graphics, or live workouts
Echelon Smart Rowing Machine
Specification of Echelon Smart Rowing Machine
- Item Dimensions: 49.5 x 25 x 17 inches
- Max. Weight: 350 pounds
- Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
- Item Weight: 123 pounds
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Display: 21.5" HD Touchscreen That Flips 180°
Why We Love Echelon Smart Rowing Machine
The Echelon Smart Rowing Machine is the perfect choice for people who are looking for a stylish and convenient rowing machine. It is easy to set up and folds away for easy storage. The machine offers a whisper-quiet magnetic resistance and a wide range of classes via the app. It was tested out for several weeks and enjoyed by all who tried it.
Echelon has a library of thousands of classes besides rowing, including yoga, cycling, HIIT, and strength training.
What You Should Know about Echelon Smart Rowing Machine
Experience a total body workout with the Echelon Smart Rowing Machine! Enjoy daily live and on-demand studio instruction from world-class instructors, plus on-demand scenic rides from some of the best waterways in the world. With hundreds of on-demand classes available anytime, you will never have to leave your home to get in the best shape of your life.
The folding design and front wheels let you easily store the machine when not in use. The Rower features resistance controls located on the handlebars and 32 levels of magnetic resistance. The Echelon row machine has a small metric screen to measure distance, the number of strokes per minute, and your split time. Echelon added a 22-inch HD touchscreen with a 180-degree flip adjustment to provide a better view.
Points to Consider Before Purchasing
- Light and easy to use if you've never rowed before
- Versatile for people of various weights and heights
- Easy to store upright
- The plastic design looks like it may not be the most durable
- The function is limited if you don't sign up for an Echelon class membership
- The warranty only lasts for a year
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine
Best Rowing Machine For Home
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine
Specification of SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine
- Product Dimensions: 19"D x 78"W x 23.2"H
- Max. Weight: 250 pounds
- Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
- Item Weight: 60.9 Pounds
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Display: Digital Monitor
Why We Love SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 magnetic resistance rowing machine is the perfect way to get started on your fitness journey. It is extremely popular and is a great option if you’re on a tight budget. This rowing machine is sturdy and reliable, making it a great choice for beginners.
It is also quiet, making it perfect for use at home. With so many amazing features, it’s no wonder this machine is so popular. Get started on your fitness journey today with the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 magnetic resistance rowing machine. The cushioned seat gives users a comfortable rowing experience. Don't let discomfort stand in the way of reaching your wellness goals!
What You Should Know about SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine
Tracking your progress on the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine is simple with the Digital Monitor screen! Displays provide time, count, calories, total count, or scan through each metric. Switch up the intensity of your workouts with the convenient tension knob. With a simple twist, you can adjust the resistance so your rowing machine workout can remain challenging and effective throughout your fitness journey.
Featuring large, textured pedals with safety straps. Providing users with a non-slip surface and the security of high-quality straps, your feet remain in place throughout your rowing routine!
Save space when the rowing machine is not in use by folding the steel rail upright. Perfect for storage in tight areas. Slip-resistant handlebars with soft padded foam grip provide comfort and support to help you maintain performance throughout your workout.
To prevent tipping, rocking, and swaying on uneven surfaces for carpets and hardwood floors alike. Simply tilt and roll out for use or away for storage, no need for heavy lifting or muscle strain. The wheels at the front of the unit allow the user to move their rower around with ease.
Points to Consider Before Purchasing
- Quiet machine and is suitable for compact spaces
- Reasonably priced with multiple levels of resistance
- Large comfortable padded seat
- Suitable for tall users
- The digital monitor is basic & provides limited data
YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine
Specification of YOSUDA Rowing Machine
- Product Dimensions: 46.5 x 27 x 8.25 inches
- Max. Weight: 350 pounds
- Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
- Item Weight: 69.5 pounds
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Display: LCD
Why We Love YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine
If you're looking for a budget-friendly rowing machine that won't break the bank, the YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine is a great option to consider! This rower uses magnets and a metal flywheel to create resistance, making it a durable and long-lasting choice for your home gym.
The simple monitor on the machine lets you keep track of your progress, so you can see how far you've come. With its affordable price tag and sturdy construction, the YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable rowing machine.
What You Should Know About YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine
The non-slip texture and adjustable straps can ensure your safety. Large foot pedals can fit nearly any shoe size. You can enjoy videos or music when you are rowing with a tablet holder. The monitor screen won't be blocked with our unique design. The easy-to-read LCD monitor displays exact rowing distance, time, count, total count, and calorie data. Ergonomically designed seat cushions provide a comfortable row experience.
Smooth and quiet movements will make your exercise more efficient. Wide handlebar wrapped with soft foam, which is non-slip and sweat-absorbing. Reinforced nylon rope is more durable and won't break after thousands of tests. Two wheels on the front stabilizer make this rower machine easy to move around.
Four balanced regulators help stability on different surfaces. The magnetic resistance system creates an unbelievably smooth and nearly silent rowing. Don't worry about disturbing your family and neighbors.
Points to Consider Before Purchasing
- Sturdy and well-built with comfortable seats
- Easy to fold and store
- Good weight and height capacity
- The incredibly easy assembly process
- The resistance it offers is not that good but it provides excellent stability
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine
Specification of SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine
- Product Dimensions: 20"D x 54"W x 23"H
- Max. Weight: 220 pounds
- Resistance Mechanism: Hydraulic
- Item Weight: 20.9 Pounds
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Display: LCD
Why We Love SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine is a great way to start your fitness journey or continue it! This rowing machine is perfect for any fitness enthusiast, beginner to pro. With its single hydraulic piston, this rower offers a smooth and challenging workout every time. Its padded seat ensures comfort during your workout while its sliding seat design engages your lower body for a more complete workout. Get a full-body workout with the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine!
What You Should Know About SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine
Earn an incredible low-impact full-body workout with the SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine. Boost your calorie burn and challenge your cardiovascular system as your entire body works to complete your row. You can track your fitness progress with the digital monitor that displays time, count, total count, calories, and scan.
Truly push your cardio limit as you increase or decrease the hydraulic tension designated to your rowing workout. Gain a wider range of motion with each stroke with the adjustable pivoting pedals paired with the fixed incline.
The smooth glide seat and 12 levels of hydraulic resistance will allow you to complete a quiet and enduring ride while working your full body, increasing your cardiovascular fitness, and burning calories. The pivoting foot pedals with foot straps are great for beginners or those with tight muscles, as they open your range of motion allowing you to achieve the safest posture throughout each phase of your row. Row in comfort with the cushioned seat and foam handlebars. When you’ve completed your workout, the compact design makes it easy to store. Level up your rowing experience with the Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine.
Points to Consider Before Purchasing
- Great for beginners as it is not very hard to use
- 12-levels of adjustable hydraulic resistance
- It is Smooth, quiet, and sturdy as it works on hydraulic resistance
- It is a little bit compact so it can be used anywhere easily
- May be insufficient resistance for experienced rowers
- Not suitable for tall users
Best Rowing Machine For Home FAQs
We have tried to provide a list of bike computers that are popular in the market, feature-rich, and provide good value for the price now it is up to you to decide what feature is important for you.
Our comprehensive buyer's guide with frequently asked questions helps you choose the best rowing machine with buyers guide help you decide the perfect option for you.
Here are some of the common frequently asked questions.
Q: What is the best type of home rowing machine?
Answer: A dynamic rowing machine is the best as it has a really good feeling of you being on the water. Because it is dynamic, it doesn’t cause too much weight on the lower back, which is awesome.
Q: What are the benefits of using a rowing machine?
Answer: Rowing is about 70% leg drive when done properly. If you visit most health clubs, members using ergs are almost uniformly doing so incorrectly, which can harm you. In all rowing, whether on the water or the stationary device, the key factor is the ratio.
Q: How do I choose a rowing machine?
Answer: When choosing a rowing machine, you'll want to consider the following factors:
- How much space do you have? Rowing machines can take up a lot of space, so make sure you have enough room before purchasing one.
- What type of user are you? Rowing machines come in both air and water-resistance models. If you're a beginner, an air resistance model may be best for you, while more experienced rowers may prefer water resistance models.
- How often will you use it? If you plan on using your rowing machine frequently, it's important to choose one that is durable and built to last.
- How much does it cost? Rowing machines can vary in price.
Q: Is it better to use a rowing machine with water or magnetic resistance?
Answer: There are pros and cons to both types of rowing machines. With a water rower, the resistance is created by moving against the flow of water. This type of machine is generally considered more difficult to use because the resistance increases as you row faster. However, many people find that the natural feel and motion of using a water rower are more comfortable and realistic than using a machine with magnetic resistance.
With a magnetic rower, the resistance is created by magnets that oppose one another. This type of machine typically provides more consistent resistance throughout the entire range of motion, which can be important for those who are looking to improve their fitness level or achieve specific goals.
Q: Is rowing better than a treadmill?
Answer: Just as running outside burns more calories than running on a treadmill, you'll burn more calories rowing on the water as compared to rowing on a machine. Additionally, it's better for overall weight loss because you'll build more muscle than from a simpler cardio workout such as running.
Q: What is the proper way to use the rowing machine?
Answer: There are a few things to keep in mind when using the rowing machine:
- Make sure you adjust the seat height and straps so that they are comfortable for you.
- Grip the handle with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, and make sure your arms are bent at 90 degrees.
- Lean back slightly and press down on the rower's footplates with your feet.
- Straighten your legs, and then pull the handle towards your chest, maintaining a slight bend in your elbows.
- Slowly release the handle back to the starting position, and repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Q: Is rowing good for belly fat?
Answer: Yes, rowing is a great exercise for targeting belly fat because it works the entire body, including the abs and obliques, and is a great cardio workout. In addition, rowing can help tone the body and improve overall fitness. So if you're looking to reduce belly fat and get in shape, rowing is a great option!
Q: Are 20 minutes of rowing enough?
Answer: It depends on your goal and your current fitness. If your starting point is that you can barely get off the couch, then 20 minutes of rowing will feel like forever. If you can currently row (say) 3km in 20 minutes and your goal is to get faster, then I’d probably do some shorter sessions at a higher intensity.
If you can currently row 5 km in 20 minutes and your goal is to build endurance, then no - you need some 40+ minute sessions at a slower pace. If your goal is simply to maintain a level of cardiovascular fitness that beats 90%+ of the population, then yes, 20 minutes at a reasonable pace is plenty. But even better if you can increase your distance every time!
Q: How much does a good rowing machine cost?
Answer: A good rowing machine can cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000. The price varies depending on the quality of the machine, the features it has, and whether or not it is adjustable to fit different body sizes.
One important thing to keep in mind when shopping for a rowing machine is that a low price doesn't always mean a good value. Cheap machines often have low-quality parts that don't last very long, so it's important to do your research before making a purchase. Rowing machines are an investment, so you'll want to make sure you get one that will last for years.
Key Takeaways
So there you have it – our top picks for the best rowing machine for your home. Whether you’re just starting or are a seasoned pro, we can help you find the perfect rowing machine for your needs. And with all of this information at your fingertips, purchasing your bike computer is easy! Just take a look at our recommendations and keep rowing!