Finding the best rowing machines for the home is becoming an exercise on its own. This is due to some varieties available on the market that you can choose from. We have a lot of rowing machines that come in very sleek and highly refined pieces. Thus ready to get you to the health and fitness level that you so desire for your body.
Rowing machines were designed to provide the body with an awesome way to increase their fitness levels. They do it by burning calories and building muscles in a safe way.
As with most health equipment, the higher the price, the more features you should expect to see in it. Rowing machines are not an exception to this rule.
There are a lot of things to consider when buying a new rowing machine. One of the considerations to look into is the type of resistance the machine provides. Some rowing machines provide water resistance but not air resistance. While some provide a piston and not magnetic resistance. Where and how you intend to use the machine will determine the type of resistance that you will need.
Another factor that we noticed was a bother to a lot of people was the price of the rower. As with most fitness equipment, you would find different models. They come with different features being sold at different price points.
It is widely believed that high-end models tend to last much longer than the budget machines. Cheaper models mean you tend to spend less on the machine at the beginning. But, it could also mean you would tend to spend more cost on replacement and maintenance costs.
The noise level of the rowing machine should be looked into as well. Some people appreciate the rushing noise of pulling the rower. Whereas some others could find it distracting. Once you know the noise level that is acceptable to you, then you can make a choice that suits your needs.
Rowing on a regular basis will help improve your cardiovascular fitness. As well as help you build your muscle. If your goal this year is to shed off excess fat accumulated from years of consuming fast food, then a rower will be a great tool to help you achieve your goal.
Depending on the part of your body that requires exercises, you might be torn between getting a rowing machine and a stationary bike. A rower will help in the number of calories burned. But, if you have upper body problems, you're better off with a stationary bike.
- Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5
- 500 lbs
- YES
- Read review
- Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine
- 250 lbs
- YES
- Read review
-
Editor’s Choice
- Stamina 1215 Orbital Rowing Machine with Free Motion Arms
- 250 lbs
- YES
- Read review
- Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW 5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine
- 250 lbs
- YES
- Read review
- Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine with Full-Motion Arms
- 220 lbs
- YES
- Read review
BUYING GUIDES FOR BEST ROWING MACHINES
A rowing machine is a piece of exercise equipment that imitates rowing a boat in the water. It's great for weight loss, toning, and building muscles and increasing stamina. Hence it is a fitness game-changer. Using a rowing machine gets your heart and lungs working more. Thus providing a serious aerobic workout, and is a great way to improve your overall health.
BENEFITS OF HAVING THE BEST ROWING MACHINES
It provides efficient cardio exercise. Its advantages include weight loss, increased stamina, and a stronger immune system. Endorphins are released for the duration of your work. This will help a lot in improving your mood and sleep quality. It's based on the fact that it needs the use of so many major muscle groups. A rowing machine is an efficient way to increase your heart rate and oxygen intake. For you to have an effective cardio workout.
Induces weight loss
- Working out on a rowing machine regularly helps you burn calories. As well as tone muscles and give you increased energy. When combined with eating a healthy, balanced diet, using a rowing machine consistently is a great way to help you achieve your fitness goals.
Upper and lower body workouts
- Rowing machines provide nice workouts for your biceps and abs. As well as exercises your shoulders, upper and lower backs. Because you need to maintain a strong grip on the oars, you will also develop more reliable hands and wrists.
Most rowing enthusiasts consider rowing primarily a lower-body workout. Building strong legs and glutes will transform your looks and stance amazingly. Working out the lower body also burns calories at a faster rate. Resistance training on a rowing machine is a great way to maintain flexibility and balance. In addition to improved muscle strength and tone.
A rowing machine exercise is a good option for those that are not able to perform weight-bearing exercises. Such as running, hiking, walking, and, yoga. The motion of rowing is natural and low impact, creating minimal stress on the joints. Rowing machines are ideal for the prevention of injury. Good rowing posture lets your legs do the work, taking the pressure off your back.
It is quite affordable
- There are many models of rowing machines that have extensive features and are affordable. You might also have access to a rowing machine at your gym.
Carrying out exercises on a rowing machine is relatively straightforward to learn. Hence it is perfect for all ages and abilities. Make sure that you use the proper rowing technique while exercising. This will help to maximize your workout and reduce the potential injury. Fasten your feet in the stirrups with your shins close to a 90-degree angle to the floor. It is advisable to keep your back straight, your core engaged to row in a smooth, fluid motion.
Because rowing works on your entire body, it is easier to stay engaged while at it.
TIPS FOR BUYING A ROWING MACHINE
Rowing offers a great full-body workout to energize the body. Here are some factors to consider when you set out to buy an ideal rowing machine.
- Space
What is the point in looking for the perfect rowing machine when you don’t have enough space to use it in the first place? Ensure that you have adequate space for its use before you buy a rowing machine.
- Stick to your spending budget
Figure out how much you need to spend on a rowing machine. As it will help to narrow down the number of different models to choose from. Sticking to your spending budget prevents you from spending unnecessary purchases. Always bear in mind that the higher the price, the higher the quality.
- Mode of use
It is worthy to note that all indoor rowing machines are ideal for home use. But not all indoor rowing machines are good for commercial use in gyms, health clubs, and boathouses. Any unit you choose is fine if you intend to use the rowing machine at home. But, if you plan to use it commercially, be sure to choose a machine that is commercial grade and built for heavy use.
- The number of users
If this machine is not solely for you, it is advisable that you buy a rowing machine that has adjustable resistance. Thus to suit the different strength and fitness levels for all the users. Every rowing machine has different weight and height capacities. So make sure you choose one that is suitable for all users.
Other things to look out for in a typical rowing machine include the machine’s build quality and material. Or how comfortable (or uncomfortable) the seat, handles, and the footrests are. As well as its storage capacities.
Finally, we'll discuss the different resistance types of a rowing machine. This includes air, hydraulic piston, magnetic, and water. Learning about the different resistance types will help you. This gives you a basic understanding of the functions of rowing machines. Also, it will help you to choose the best machine for you.
Air resistant rowing machine
- It is the most common resistance type found in gyms and health clubs. Its resistance level is determined by the user’s rowing intensity. The more the intensity, the more the resistance. The fan blades that are used to create resistance are quite noisy. But, the rowing motion on these machines is very smooth.
Hydraulic Piston
-
This type is compact and easy to store away. Its resistance is usually adjustable. Hence the hydraulic pistons that are used to create resistance are noiseless. It is the lowest priced of all the resistance types.
Magnetic
- Due to the magnetic braking system used to provide resistance is noiseless. The rowing motion is smooth, and resistance is usually adjustable. It is very durable and requires no maintenance.
Water
-
It is the most realistic rowing motion. Hence the resistance is determined by the user’s rowing intensity. The oar blades that create the resistance are quite noisy. This is the highest-priced of all the resistance types.
Best Rowing Machines - Good for Indoor Exercise Machine of 2020
-
-
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5
The Concept2 Model rowing machine is a popular choice for a lot of gyms, and there’s a good reason for that. You are on a fitness journey and have been searching for an indoor machine to help with. The Concept2 Model is a great choice and one of the best rowing machines you will find.
The machine has a modern design and superb construction. It will not only fit well in any gym, but it will also fit in your home and even add to the aesthetics of the house. The machine delivers a full-body low-impact workout that you get. Thus by pulling against high air pressure created by the fan from a 14-inch seat height. Hence a nickel-plated chain draws the flywheel. This model is a bulky machine so lifting it will be a chore. But it's fitted with caster wheels for easy mobility, and if you want to store it, you can separate it into two pieces.
Performance Monitor 5 is the unique, useful, and exciting feature of the rowing machine. This technology gives you accurate, comparable data every time you row. It can show the total distance and time spent during your workout. Also, it can show the difference in your pace along two set points, whichever way you prefer. The machine has a 500-pound capacity and is very strong and sturdy. If you need a hardcore workout, you can give this a try.
PROS CONS The machine is an excellent choice for full-body workouts and competitive rowing. Some reviewers complain that the seat is too hard. It is a sturdy, strong, and durable machine. The machine is easy to assemble and store. The calculating data feature is quite useful. The machine comes with a 5-year warranty. It has a simple yet practical and functional design. 
-
-
-
Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine
The Stamina Body Trac Glider made to number two on our list of the top rowing machines for a couple of reasons. This home rower is another one to watch out for and ideal for full-body, low-impact workouts. The Trac Glider is a piston-powered rower. It will make you experience some real, oar-like rowing. The rower won't cost you a fortune, and it will give so much more than your money's worth.
The machine has an aluminum rowing beam designed to make it long-lasting and easy to maintain. You get your workout from the adjustable hydraulic resistance provided by the machine. And the monitor calculates the time spent, your stroke count, and the number of calories you’ve burned.
This machine is not only strong and sturdy. It comes with high quality, steel frame construction, and a 250-pound capacity. It is also very durable and long-lasting. The Glider is a very compact and lightweight rowing machine. Especially when compared to other rowing machine models we reviewed here on the site.
The Stamina Body Trac Glide has its advantages as well as its weaknesses. For some people, these shortcomings could be seen as deal-breakers. Whereas for others, it will only be their cost for choosing to stay in shape.
One main issue that we noticed from the reviews was the footrest. A couple of owners said they had problems keeping their feet strapped in. This meant they kept on stopping to strap them back in position during use. It also means they're restricted to a particular rowing speed. As going faster would mean they would have their feet pop out.
A special feature of the Stamina Body Trac Glider is the Console/Monitor. This is a little monitor that keeps you updated on how long you have rowed in each session. As well as the time it took and the number of calories burned. Unfortunately, it doesn't have preset programs or an option to store workout performance. But, we were not expecting any of this as the Trac Glider 1050 is a budget machine.
PROS CONS It is very easy to assemble. The seat is not comfortable. The machine is compact and does not take up too much space. The machine makes noise when you start it up. The rowing tension of the machine is adjustable. It has a sturdy frame, and it is well-constructed. The machine is not too expensive.
-
-
-
Stamina 1215 Orbital Rowing Machine with Free Motion Arms
Another machine by stamina made it to Number 3 on our list of top rowing machines. The Orbital rowing machine is another compact rower. It gives you the oar-like experience of rowing on water.
You get your low-impact, full-body workout from the smooth hydraulic cylinder resistance of the machine. Hence the adjustable tension controls.
The Orbital rowing machine, like the Glider, features a monitor. It calculates speed, time, distance, stroke count, and miles rowed. As well as the number of calories you burned. Unlike many rowing machines, the Orbital is quite comfortable. It has a thick, cushioned seat and pivoting footplates. Stamina is a company that is popular for its line of high-quality rowing machines. From budget-friendly, space-saving machines to commercial-quality rowing machines. The Orbital model is no different.
For people with limited exercise space to work with, the Stamina 1215 provides a low-cost solution. It can help you build the whole body for strength and cardiovascular exercise. It's suitable for adults of average heights. Though we noticed some complaints from people who are above 6 ft.
Unlike the other rowers on our list, the Stamina Orbital 1215 lets you customize. Hence adjust the machine to your specifications. It allows you to adjust the resistance on the hydraulic cylinder by adjusting the incline of the aluminum beam.
This rowing machine has a one-button monitor. It shows speed, distance, time, row count, miles rowed and calories burned. One amazing feature of this rowing machine is the Incline Control. This is a rare feature found on rowing machines that allows you to increase resistance. It boosts your metabolism by adjusting the tilt of the Orbital's seat rail.
PROS CONS The machine has a high-quality steel frame with a durable aluminum beam. The machine is quite heavy. It is a budget-friendly machine. It does not stand properly. It is compact for easy storage. The seat does not have a locking mechanism so you cannot use the machine for other purposes. The machine moves and performs quietly.
-
-
-
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW 5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine
The Sunny Health and Fitness Rowing Machine is number four on our list of the best rowing machine. This rower features a Magnetic Tension System with eight levels of adjustable resistance. So you can increase or decrease the intensity of your workout and adjust it to your skill level.
The machine has a sleek yet practical and ergonomic design. It has a thick fully padded seat and anti-slip foot pedals with adjustable foot straps. As well as non-slip handlebars for good grip and comfort.
You can also track your progress with the large LCD console. It shows time, stroke count, and the number of calories burned. The Sunny Health machine is the ultimate indoor machine if you want comfort and convenience while burning calories. The machine is fitted with wheels for easy mobility, so you don't have to haul it anywhere. The machine is easy to assemble, and it has a 250-pound weight capacity.
PROS CONS If you need a hardcore workout, this rowing machine will give you one. The LCD monitor does not calculate distance. The machine is available at a relatively low cost. The console is also quite small. It is a quiet machine.
-
-
-
Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine with Full-Motion Arms
This rowing machine is one step ahead of the Sunny Health rowing machine. The full-motion arms of the machine provide a wide and full range of movement. While the 12 levels of adjustable resistance give you plenty of options for a very high or low-intensity workout.
This is a rowing machine that's not only built for a hardcore full-body, low impact workout. But, also for extreme comfort during your intense exercise.
The seat of the machine is thick and fully padded. It has non-slip grip handlebars and large anti-slip pedals with adjustable foot straps. You can also track your workout progress with the built-in LCD monitor. It calculates time spent, stroke count, and the number of calories burned.
The full-motion arms, by providing a full range of movement, target all the muscle groups. So that you get the most out of your intense full-body workout. The machine has a sleek design and sturdy, good quality steel frame construction.
PROS CONS The pedals of the machine are comfortable and sturdy. The piston heats up after a few minutes of rowing. The machine is silent. It's available at an affordable price.
-
Rowing Machine with 12 Adjustable Resistance by Sunny Health & Fitness – SF-RW1205
This Sunny Health machine has a very simple and ergonomic design. It's one of the most simple rowing machine designs you will find. The SF-RW1205 has similar features with the Sunny Health full motion arms machine. The machine features 12 levels of adjustable resistance. Thereby you can determine the intensity of your workout. The seat is smooth and it has pivoting footplates with adjustable straps for comfort. You can track the progress of your workout with the electronic monitor. It displays the time spent, stroke count, scan, and the total calories burned.
PROS CONS The machine is available for a very affordable price. The instruction guide is not clear. It is small and compact for easy storage. It's great for an intense full-body workout.
-
-
Soozier Magnetic Folding Rowing Machine
The elastic cord rowing machine is another incredible, well-performing Sunny Health rower. This smooth, sleek rower is made out of high-quality steel. It's equipped with an elastic cord dual-direction resistance with 4 levels of adjustable tension. So you can change the intensity of your workout to keep it challenging. The machine is an ideal choice for medium intensity, full-body, low-impact workout. It has a simple design. Also, it comes with large foot pedals with adjustable straps for easy rowing. Hence a large angled seat with non-slip handles. The built-in LCD monitor helps you track your progress by calculating the time spent. As well as the number of calories burned, and stroke count during your exercise. It is a portable rower, and it is foldable, for storage. The weight capacity of the rower is 220 pounds.
PROS CONS The machine is well-constructed. The handlebar strap is not durable or high quality. It is quite durable. It takes up minimal space during use and for storage. It is easy to use and assemble. The machine is quite affordable.
-
-
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW 5606 Elastic Cord Rowing Machine
The Concept2 Model E machine is another high-quality product with unique features. This model features a bright monitor. It calculates and displays data during your workout. The LCD monitor shows the intensity and length of your workout. As well as the distance rowed and the number of calories burned during the exercise. It also stores your workout stats on a USB card. The machine is quite bulky, but the quality is very high. Moreover, it is well-constructed with an aluminum monorail frame. The design of the flywheel minimizes any noise that may come from the machine otherwise.
As for comfort, the seat of the machine is stable enough. Hence comfortable enough even for long workout sessions. The height of the seat is also set at 20 inches. Its footrests are adjustable and the handle of the machine is non-slip. It also has an ergonomic design, and the machine is fitted with caster wheels for easy mobility.
If you find the machine too bulky for storage, it is possible to take it apart into two pieces. The Model E is a high-end rowing machine unlike some of the previous ones we reviewed. But, its great value for money if you are willing and able to get the rower. The Model E has a 500-pound weight capacity, and the machine comes with a 5-year warranty.
PROS CONS The machine is very compact, and it folds for easy storage. Reviewers complain that the quality of the machine is average. The machine is quiet. It is easy to assemble and easy to use. The machine is affordable.
-
-
-
Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5
The Concept2 Model E machine is another high-quality product with unique features. This model features a bright monitor. It calculates and displays data during your workout. The LCD monitor shows the intensity and length of your workout. Hence the distance rowed and the number of calories burned during the exercise. It also stores your workout stats on the USB card. The machine is quite bulky, but the quality is undoubtedly very high. It is well-constructed with an aluminum monorail frame. The design of the flywheel minimizes any noise that may come from the machine otherwise.
As for comfort, the seat of the machine is stable enough. Hence comfortable enough even for long workout sessions, the height of the seat is also set at 20 inches. The footrests are adjustable and the handle of the machine is non-slip. It has an ergonomic design, and the machine is fitted with caster wheels for easy mobility.
If you find the machine too bulky for storage, it is possible to take it apart into two pieces. The Model E is a high-end rowing machine unlike some of the previous ones we reviewed. But, its great value for money if you are willing and able to get the rower. The Model E has a 500-pound weight capacity, and the machine comes with a 5-year warranty.
PROS CONS The rower is a piece of very solid equipment with good build quality. The machine is expensive. The machine is easy to assemble despite its bulk and easy to use. It is quite bulky. It operates smoothly and quietly.
-
The RW1000 features three built-in easy-to-read LCD controls. It will help you track your stats during a workout session. The monitor tracks the length of your workout and the distance. As well as the number of calories burned during the workout.
You can choose the level of resistance and intensity of your workout with the resistance knob located at the bottom of the display. The machine is well-constructed with a high-quality steel frame. It has an eddy drive system with a flywheel. The flywheel keeps the rower operating smoothly and quietly. The machine is quite compact, and it folds for easy storage.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| The machine is very easy to assemble. | The machine gets noisy after a few uses. |
| It has adjustable tensions so you can choose the intensity of your workout. | Reviewers complain that the front of the machine lifts off the ground when you row. |
| The machine folds up easily for storage. |
Conclusion
In some circles, the rowing machine is seen as one of the most undervalued fitness equipment ever. Most people don't know why they need a rowing machine in their lives.
A rowing machine is your body's best friend. They give it an entire workout which would have been impossible on other machines. Such as treadmills, elliptical, and other cardiovascular exercises. If you are also interested in bodyweight exercises with the weight bench, then weightbenchguide.com is the best place to go.
The rowing machine works on both the upper body and the lower body. Thus to complete a full rowing stroke which is a good thing as you can't cheat on a rowing machine. It will do a thorough job on your body and get you sweating in no time.
Our well-researched guide went through some of the rowing machines in the market to come up with this Top 10 list. The Concept2 Model D is our top pick for the best rowing machines.
We love the Concept2 Model for a variety of reasons. One major reason is the build. When it comes to rowing machines, build is everything. It's a piece of equipment that you will be pulling and moving from one end to another in your home. Having a machine that is well built to last and withstand abuse is definitely a blessing. Concept 2 Model D is strong and durable.
When it comes to getting down to using Concept 2 Model D, you will find out that it is easy to use. It's loaded with features that will enhance your fitness goals. It comes with an air resistance design that gives you a realistic feel when you're rowing. One thing with having a rowing machine with an air resistance design is that you do not have to constantly adjust the resistance. Unlike in other rowing machines, which could be a hassle.
There is a performance LCD monitor as well. It allows you to manage various advanced features to control your workout while you operate on it. The moment you get on the rowing machine and begin to row, the monitor will flick on and begin to track your performance. The monitor on the Concept 2 Model D has the ability to track your speed, distance, and calories burned. As well as the pace at which you row, while also monitoring your heart rate at the same time.
Our second pick is the Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine. This is a top seller online due to its price but it does have other things that allowed us to put it on our #2 spot.
It has a basic console that monitors the vitals in your exercise. It will tell you how long you've rowed for, estimated calories burned, and how far.
One thing that stands out for the Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 is its compact size. It makes it easy to store away and its quiet operation. While we all know the benefits that come with using rowing machines. One major weakness that we find in a lot of machines is sound. Very few rowing machines are quiet during use and the Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 is one of them.
At the end of the day, you will choose the perfect rowing machine that fits your needs and budget. Our buyer's guide contains all the information you need. Thus making the right choice in choosing the best rowing machine for your needs.