Best Rowing Machines

Review & Comparison, Last Update December 22, 2023
If you have ever come to a gym in a rush hour, you probably know how difficult it is to find free exercise equipment for workout. With rowing machine at home you won’t face such problems anymore. Take your pick among best 5 rowing machines reviewed below! ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
TYPE
DESIGN
MUSCLE LOADING LEVELS
DISPLAYED INFORMATION
MAXIMUM USER WEIGHT
EXTRAS
UNIT WEIGHT
DIMENSIONS
WARRANTY
 
PROS
A convenient reliable design and a multifunctional display are excellent for effective workouts.
CONS
It requires a lot of time to re-assemble this machine.
OUR VERDICT
A reliable steel design of Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 enables users to adjust the resistance level. Overall, this is a perfect item for home workouts.
detailed parameters
TYPE
Mechanic
DESIGN
Flywheel
MUSCLE LOADING LEVELS
10
DISPLAYED INFORMATION
Distance, Speed, Pace, Calories
MAXIMUM USER WEIGHT
500 lbs
EXTRAS
Performance Monitor, Flywheel and Damper, Low Profile, Storage and Mobility, Easy Assembly
UNIT WEIGHT
57 lbs
DIMENSIONS
96'' х 24'' х 14''
WARRANTY
5 years (frame), 2 years (parts)
PROS
Owing to innovative technologies, you can control even the minimal changes in your workouts.
CONS
Being quite bulky, this rowing machine requires a lot of space for storage.
OUR VERDICT
WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine in Ash Wood with S4 Monitor can boast an excellent design and natural materials.
detailed parameters
TYPE
Mechanic
DESIGN
Water rower
MUSCLE LOADING LEVELS
Self-Regulating Resistance
DISPLAYED INFORMATION
Intensity (m/s), Mph, Stroke Rate, Heart Rate, Calories, Distance, Workout Duration
MAXIMUM USER WEIGHT
771 lbs
EXTRAS
Premium hardwood, Incredible longevity, Dimensional stability, S4 - Performance Monitor
UNIT WEIGHT
73 lbs (117 lbs filled with water)
DIMENSIONS
82'' x 22'' x 20''
WARRANTY
5 years (wooden frame), 3 years (parts), Registering within the first year of purchase is required
PROS
Since this model is very quiet, it will be the best option for those who like early morning or late evening training.
CONS
The seat of this fitness equipment is pretty hard.
OUR VERDICT
This fitness equipment model enables the user to adjust the resistance level so it will be highly appreciated both by advanced and novice athletes.
detailed parameters
TYPE
Magnetic
DESIGN
Magnetic
MUSCLE LOADING LEVELS
8
DISPLAYED INFORMATION
Time, Count, Total Count, Calories
MAXIMUM USER WEIGHT
250 lbs
EXTRAS
Easy-to-use display, 8 resistance levels, Transport wheels, Easy to assemble, Easy to fold after use
UNIT WEIGHT
60 lbs
DIMENSIONS
51'' x 10'' x 26''
WARRANTY
90 days (frame and parts)
PROS
Due to a quiet performance and a compact design, this training apparatus will deliver much pleasure to your sports life.
CONS
Novice athletes may find it difficult to cope with the synchronous motion of pistons.
OUR VERDICT
Want to imagine as if you were rowing but don't want to pay a lot of money for it? Just purchase this rowing machine and enjoy your new experience.
detailed parameters
TYPE
Mechanic
DESIGN
Hydraulic
MUSCLE LOADING LEVELS
Smooth Adjustment
DISPLAYED INFORMATION
Distance, Speed, Time, Calories
MAXIMUM USER WEIGHT
250 lbs
EXTRAS
Incline control, Quiet resistance, Strong Beam, Compact size
UNIT WEIGHT
52 lbs
DIMENSIONS
50'' x 32.5'' x 31''
WARRANTY
5 years (frame), 90 days (parts)
PROS
Stamina Air Rower can be easily folded and transported thanks to its wheels.
CONS
This rowing machine is quite noisy and is deprived of a resistance regulator.
OUR VERDICT
High-quality Stamina Air Rower with performance monitor and compact construction is what you need for everyday training.
detailed parameters
TYPE
Mechanic
DESIGN
Flywheel
MUSCLE LOADING LEVELS
Self-Regulating Resistance
DISPLAYED INFORMATION
Intensity (m/s), Mph, Stroke Rate, Heart Rate, Calories, Distance, Workout Duration
MAXIMUM USER WEIGHT
250 lbs
EXTRAS
Wind Resistance, Upholstered Seat, Steel Frame, Floor Protectors, Built-in Wheels
UNIT WEIGHT
54 lbs
DIMENSIONS
77'' x 18'' x 22''
WARRANTY
3 years (frame), 90 days (parts)
X

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Concept2 Model D

The Simplest Thing Ever

Concept 2 Model D Indoor rowing machine is one of the most popular exercise equipment in its class. If you want to understand the reason, we suggest you consider its features. First of all, the type of this rower is the flywheel. Due to the simple construction of the tool’s mechanism (consists of a flywheel and a propeller), you’ll forget about costly maintenance in case of breakdown. Secondly, pay attention to the rower’s self-sufficiency – there is no need to fill a tank with water (as in water models), for example. Thus, all you need to start working out is to sit down and take a handle to make the first stroke.  10 adjustable resistance settings are another advantage. Choosing the most suitable one for your physical state, you’ll get a chance to train in the most productive way. The material of the rower is really important too. Being the core component of Concept 2 Model D, the frame is made of a durable material applied in the civil and military building. Thanks to this feature, the rowing machine is capable of withstanding up to 500 pounds of weight. Thus, buying this model of a rower, you can be sure that you get durable equipment. The last but not the least is the simplicity of installation and storage processes. Once you bring your Concept 2 Model D home, you’ll need about 10 minutes to install it and start working. And after your training is finished, you can break the rower down into two parts for a more convenient storage.

Review of Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine

Your Progress is on the Performance Monitor

Performance monitor is a significant component of a rowing machine since it helps you track your progress. This rower is equipped with Concept PM5 computer specially designed for this purpose. Capable of displaying distance, speed, and burned calories, it will become an irreplaceable assistant in making your training as effective as possible. Moreover, the monitor features a Bluetooth which lets you synchronize Concept PM5 with your smart gadget. Having installed ErgData application on iOS or Android device, you’ll be able to see even more results of your workout! For example, you can also see your heart track information in order to prevent overtraining. By the way, storing progress results on your smartphone or tablet, you’ll be able to compare them and understand whether you train as effectively as you suppose.

Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine in the use

More Products to Consider

If you want to be not only strong but classy as well, consider buying Nike swoosh headband. You might be also interested in Suddora wrist sweatband – it’s another nice accessory to emphasize your style.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $1,298.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00NH9WEUA

VIDEO
Concept 2 Model D rowing machine (A Miss Info Review)

What customers say about this product

Design

The engineers really thought this design out and seem to have used the appropriate materials in all of the right places.

Key Specs

There is a system to adjust the fan blades to mimic different types of rows (heavy boat, light weight boat, etc.).

Features

The PM5 monitor can be pivoted to many positions, allowing the athlete to adjust height and angle.
 

WaterRower Ash S4 Natural

The Power of Water

As you have already understood, this is a water rower – perhaps, the most unusual rowing machine in this review. The first thing you have to do to start training is to pour water into the tank. Amount of water determines physical load on your body during workout. Then, you need to sit down and start rowing using a special handle. Once you take a stroke, you make a paddle wheel (situated inside the water tank) move. Thus, resistance which makes your muscles flex appears. The faster you do the exercise, the more efforts you make. Consequently, we believe that this rowing machine is the gentlest one since you don’t have to tear your muscles apart to keep up with the requirements set by a program. Water Rower Ash S4 gives you a chance to control exercise process in the most comfortable way.

Review of WaterRower Ash S4 Natural Rowing Machine

You'll Be Impressed

Rower Ash S4 possesses outstanding features that make its use easy and comfortable. The first thing to catch our eye was the rower’s frame - its monolith construction consists of ash wood. On one hand, it doesn’t allow you to fold the machine for storage. But on the other hand, this very material can withstand users’ weight up to 771 pounds! Although there isn’t a possibility to break the rower in parts, the manufacturer has provided it with wheels for more convenient transportation. The usability is also improved by an ergonomic seat and a handle to make your training not only productive but pleasant as well. Keep in mind that you’re free to change water level in the tank in case of necessity. If you need more water to increase resistance, just open the lid and add the liquid. To bail water out of the tank, you may need a special siphon pump which will make this procedure a piece of cake. By the way, you don’t need to change the water in the tank every time you finish or start working out. It’s enough to refill the tank once per six months. And to keep the water clean during this time, treat it with a special chlorinating tablet. Finally, specifically developed WaterRower S4 Performance Monitor is a necessary rower’s component to track your performance. The displayed motion speed, stroke rate, intensity, burned calories and other measurements will let you know how effective your training is.

WaterRower Ash S4 Natural Rowing Machine in the use

More Products to Consider

If you want to be aware of your heart rate while working out on Rower Ash S4, WaterRower digital heart rate monitoring kit is what you need.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $1,160.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B000A6QIMS

VIDEO
WaterRower - How to Row - Rowing Tutorial

What customers say about this product

Features

Allows for racing against AI, against personal best, and against other online fitness buffs.

Design

Sturdy and durable construction made of premium quality hardwood and finished with top-of-the-line materials.

Key Specs

Unique Water Flywheel mechanism that allows for a more realistic rowing experience.
 

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515

For Those Who Like Silence

Sunny Health & Fitness is an American distributor and importer of medical and fitness goods with 10-year experience. Among numerous tools for your physical well-being, the company has produced SF-RW5515 model of rowing machine. As opposed to other machines in this review, the type of this rower is magnetic. Working with the help of two magnets moving back and forth to create resistance, this model is the quietest one. Pay attention to the fact that there are 8 levels of resistance so you can choose the one to meet your needs best. As for other features to take into consideration before buying Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 rower, keep in mind that it can withstand up to 250 pounds.

Review of Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine

Easy as One, Two, Three

If working out on a rowing machine is a novelty for you, don’t be afraid to fail. Sunny Health & Fitness rower won’t allow you to. Managing this rower is easier than you imagine. First of all, you can start training once you bring it home as the process of installation is pretty easy and won’t take much time. It’s also comfortable to store the rower thanks to its folding design. Transportation won’t make any troubles for you too: built-in wheels will help you move the rower from one room to another in a split second. Take notice of the rower’s frame. Made of stainless steel, it is resistant to moisture and scratches. Thus, you can be sure that Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 will serve you for a long time. One more pleasant feature is the rower’s plastic feet designed to protect your wooden floor from possible scratches. As for the things that make your workout pleasant, we would like to point out comfortable padded seat and feet straps. And of course, this rower is also equipped with a computer to provide you with such information as time, count, total count, and calories for more qualitative progress track. Finally, remember that the price of Sunny Health & Fitness rower is reasonable enough, so you’ll get perfect exercise equipment with necessary functions and avoid overpaying.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine in the use

More Products to Consider

Every person who goes in for sports should know that starting workout without preliminary preparation is dangerous and harmful to health. That’s why we recommend you to use foam roller combo set to warm muscles up before training.

Last updated price $249.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B017HSNIEW

 

Stamina 1215

Move Like a Sportsman

Having a quick look at Stamina 1215 Orbital rowing machine, you’ll notice that it differs from the other models. Instead of a hawser with a handle, this rower is equipped with two pistons. They are the tools to provide necessary resistance for your exercising. To choose resistance level, there are regulators on each piston to change their height. The higher the pistons’ position is, the more efforts you need to put to work out. This very construction lets you imagine yourself a real oarsman as you copy rowers’ movements precisely. The fact that the pistons work independently from each other provides you with even more realism. Keep in mind that this feature might seem inconvenient at first. The reason is your arms - if the strength in your arms isn’t equal, you’ll need some time to reach synchronicity. Nevertheless, after you get used to moving the right way, you’ll see how much stronger you’ve become.

Review of Stamina 1215 Orbital Rowing Machine

Don't Neglect It

Although Stamina 1215 Orbital rowing machine looks simple, the manufacturer has still equipped it with a small computer. As it was mentioned above, it is an important component of such exercise tool so you won’t miss a chance to track your progress. But that's not all. An outstanding feature of this rower is its size. The model lacks big flywheel and water tank, and it makes the machine quite compact. When you fold it after the workout, you can hide it under the bed or behind the door and forget about it. Please don't forget forever, okay? Also, despite its compact size and relatively light weight, the rower’s frame is made of steel and withstands up to 250 pounds of weight. Reliable feet straps, rubber handles, and comfortable padded seat add to the usability of this rowing machine. Thus, paying a reasonable price for effective and durable Stamina 1215 Orbital rowing machine, you’ll be able to keep your body fit anytime you want.

Stamina 1215 Orbital Rowing Machine in the use

More Products to Consider

If you have sensitive skin or just don’t want to have calluses on your hands after a hard workout, use gym gloves for protection. And if you feel pain in your knees but still don’t want to miss your training, knee compression sleeves will come in handy.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $328.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B001HWHY8Q

VIDEO
Stamina 1215 Orbital Rowing Machine with Free Motion Arms
 

Stamina ATS Air Rower 1399

Listen to Music While Training

Stamina company was founded in the USA in 1987. Since that time, it has been producing high-quality and innovative goods for reasonable price. Let’s check whether its rower machine reflects the image of successful manufacturer. The name of Stamina 35-1399 Air Rower speaks for itself - the type of the machine is flywheel. As there are no preset resistance modes, it’s up to you to control physical load. The more intense your movements are, the better progress you’ll achieve. Remember that there isn’t any cover over a flywheel so it might seem a bit noisy while working. Some people might consider it as a drawback. However, the manufacturer tried to decrease this unpleasant side effect by equipping Stamina 35-1399 Air Rower with MP3 player. Thus, you can achieve the best results mixing business with pleasure.

Review of Stamina ATS Air Rower 1399 Rowing Machine

Just One Button

As well as the majority of rowing machines, Stamina 35-1399 Air Rower also has a performance monitor to provide you with all necessary information from speed to burned calories. The monitor is equipped with only one button, so you won’t have problems managing it. Apart from this handy feature, you’ll also like the rower’s construction. Being quite compact equipment, Stamina rower is easy to fold for storage. In addition, it has wheels to provide fast and trouble-free transportation. The manufacturer has also equipped the rowing machine with large padded seat, rough handle for better grip, oversized footplates and adjustable foot straps. These very features are what you really need for pleasant and safe workout. Having considered all the features of Stamina 35-1399 Air Rower, we can conclude that this model will become a perfect choice for those who look for simple and reliable rowing machine for reasonable price.

Stamina ATS Air Rower 1399 Rowing Machine in the use

More Products to Consider

We all know that workout takes much energy and makes us sweat. To cope with this problem easily, try special gym towels. Due to microfiber they consist of, the towels absorb liquid and dry fast. Nike sport water bottle will also come in handy and won’t let you die of thirst during your hard training.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $309.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B003YPZWT2

VIDEO
Stamina Air Rower 1399 Wind Resistance Rowing Machine with Kerstin Lindquist

What customers say about this product

Design

Easy to roll away into a different room or closet when not using it.

Features

Resistance is supplied by a fan and despite what other state, it is definitely not loud. Sure - you are running a fan so there is some air noise, but it is absolutely nothing to get excited about.

Key Specs

The rower also has an inclined seat rail which helps add some additional resistance while also creating a smoother rowing stroke.
 

What is a Rowing Machine

As you can guess, rowing machines are called so after the sports of rowing. The reason is that during working out, your movements resemble the ones performed by oarsmen. This exercise equipment can be defined as unique since 80% of muscles are involved in a training. Back, shoulder, abdominal, leg, and arm muscles are trained during the exercise. You’ll be able to not only tone up your muscles but also lose weight, prevent a heart attack, and maintain a healthy state of your body in general.

If your preferable kind of exercising is running, we would advise you to have a look at treadmills.

What Features to Compare

Type

There are two kinds of rowers – mechanic and magnetic – and they are divided into several types. One can point out three types of mechanic rowing machines. Flywheel rowers are the most widespread. They work using the resistance (created by propeller and flywheel) which appears when you make efforts exercising. Water rowers have a similar principle of work, however, resistance is produced because of water kept in a water tank. Your every stroke makes the propeller move inside the tank so you feel the effect of resistance on your muscles. Finally, hydraulic rowers work due to two pistons creating resistance by means of a special liquid. As for magnetic rowers, they can be of two types – magnetic and electromagnetic. The first type creates resistance by virtue of two magnets moving at a different distance from the flywheel. Electromagnetic rowers have the same principle, but also use electromagnetic field while working. As a rule, magnetic kind of rower is less noisy as there is no friction between the machine’s components.

Machine Components

The rowing machine consists of several parts. All of them perform their own function to make the process of exercising as effective as possible. The frame can be made of wood or stainless steel. Sliding seat is designed to train your feet while your arms are strengthened thanks to a handle attached to the hawser. Depending on the rower’s type, there is also a flywheel or pistols to create resistance which forces you to make efforts to work on your body. A monitor displays speed, time, burned calories, and distance for you to understand how your progress is going. The majority of rowing machines have special straps to fix your feet for better convenience and safety.

Usability

This feature is of the utmost importance too. As rowing machine is a large and heavy equipment, you probably want it to be convenient and easy-to-use. Pay attention to the way the rower works. The softer the process of setting the machine in motion is, the more pleasant and easy your training will be. Remember that it’s easy to make magnetic rowers work while flywheel ones are characterized by the ability to jerk every time you make a new stroke. However, it’s not a reason to neglect considering such rowers. The ability to fold a rower provides more convenient storage of the equipment. Built-in wheels will also be an advantage since they allow you to move your rowing machine with less effort.

Sources:

1. A Guide to Rowing Machines, Argos.

2. Todd Maternowski How to Choose a Rowing Machine, azcentral.

3. About Rowing Machines, Fitness Superstore.

4. Joe Warner Stop Ignoring the Rowing Machine, COACH. June 10, 2016.

5. Rowing Machine Buying Guide, GroomNStyle. July 13, 2016.

6. How to Work out Using a Rowing Machine, wikiHow.

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