Rowing machines are one of the most underutilized machines in any gym, but when used properly, can give you a total body workout. It is a low-impact way to exercise and is easy to use, even for beginners. It also utilizes a whole range of muscles, so it is ideal for both strengthening and conditioning. It can also burn a whole lot of calories!
Given the current situation, building your own home gym is the new way to go about your fitness goals. In this article, we discuss the key points to keep in mind when choosing a rowing machine. We also selected the 10 best rowing machines available online that feature machines in a range of prices.
Quick List - Top Rowing Machines
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
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Unsure where to start? Browse through this buying guide to learn about the different types of rowing machines, as well as the important features to look for before purchasing one.
There are two main types of rowing machines that differ based on the kind of resistance used. Know which one best suits your needs by reading further below.
Often built with a wooden base, water rowers come with a water tank at the front and suspended paddles inside, which spin and create resistance when pulled. Adjusting the water level will determine the amount of resistance or drag during every stroke, so you can be more in control of your workout.
Since this type of rower utilizes water, it produces a splashing sound during every pull. If you want to get an experience that is close to what you would feel when you are already in the boat, then getting a water rower would be perfect for you. Despite the splashing sound, it is much quieter than an air rower and is ideal if you plan to use it indoors.
As the name suggests, air rowers depend on the resistance produced by air. When the user pulls on the handle, a fan flywheel attached to it spins and experiences drag from the air surrounding it. A faster pull means more force is needed to make the wheel spin, and in turn, a heavier resistance is experienced.
Air rowers are the more widely available type in the market and come in a wide range of prices, so you can find one that fits your budget. Compared to water rowers, the performance monitors of air rowers are far more accurate and are ideal if you want to get exact measurements.
Resistance is the main feature of any rowing machine. Most low-cost machines have a drag range that is great for beginner-level rowers. If you are rowing at a more competitive level or plan to take the sport seriously, investing in a machine with a wider range of levels would be worth it. The average number of resistance levels per rowing machine is 8, but this can go up to as high as 16.
Before completing your home gym, make sure your rowing machine has the capacity that fits your body weight. Most rowing machines can handle a user weight of around 280 lbs, but other machines can go up to 500 lbs. These, however, would cost more as they require a stronger base.
Like any exercise equipment, rowing machines require ample space when in use. Some rowing machines need around 9 by 4 feet of area to allow you to freely get a workout in. If you plan to store your machine indoors or in a smaller space, it is ideal to get one that folds. This lets you save space while the machine is not in use.
A good rowing machine seat should be curved to help your body have a firmer hold on the machine and make it easier for you to balance. This also ensures comfortable seating, especially while doing longer sets. Getting a machine with a waterproof seat prevents it from absorbing sweat, makes sanitizing easier, and prevents it from developing a foul odor.
When working out, it is important to be able to see a numerical value to gauge your progress. One of the basic functions a performance monitor has is the stroke rate function, which measures how many strokes you do per minute. Most monitors also have a distance measurement, calorie expenditure, and total workout time on the display panel.
Some machines also have a 500m split feature that measures in minutes and seconds. It shows the amount of time it would take you to get an entire boat to travel a distance of 500 meters as if you are in the water. This is dependent on the amount of force you exert and not the speed of the row.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Concept 2 Model D Rower | ![]() | A World Class Rowing Machine for Experienced Rowers | |
2 | Renegade AirMag Rower | ![]() | Stay on Top of Your Workout Statistics | |
3 | Trax Nordic Flow Water Rower | ![]() | Water Resistance With a Strong Wooden Base | |
4 | Fitness Technologies Primus Air Rower | ![]() | A Compact Rowing Machine to Build Your Endurance | |
5 | Baidong Dual Axis Household Rowing Machine | ![]() | A Water Rowing Machine That Folds in Half | |
6 | Reebok One GR Rower | ![]() | Great Starter Rowing Machine With Pre-Programmed Workouts | |
7 | Ovicx R100 Rowing Machine | ![]() | Slim Design for Limited Spaces | |
8 | Domyos Folding Rowing Machine 100 | ![]() | A Low-Cost Rowing Machine for Occasional Rowers | |
9 | Steel Water Rowing Machine | ![]() | A Compact Water Rower With a Steel Base | |
10 | Body Sculpture Recumbent Rowing Bike | ![]() | A Bike and Rower in One |
Looking to train in rowing as a sport? Getting a Concept 2 Model D would probably be your best option. Due to its hefty price, it might easily scare off those who plan on getting one for just a quick workout. This model, however, is recognized by most competitive rowers as a standard for indoor rowing training.
It is perfectly engineered to handle the toughest and longest workouts. Its flywheel is designed to minimize noise and give a smooth feel during every pull, just like being in the water. Its handle is curved at a 10-degree angle to give a better grip. The footrests adjust to fit the position you'd prefer.
The performance monitor it comes with has all the necessary features including a time and distance counter, stroke rate, and calories burnt. It has a maximum user weight of 500 lbs that lets it cater to a bigger crowd. The machine also separates into 2 parts so it can be easily stored after use.
Renegade is a popular sports equipment brand that specializes in treadmills, rowers, and stationary bikes. Users of this product say the design is modern and very easy to use. The seat is also a good size to easily fit a wide range of users.
The machine doesn't fold, but it can be turned upright for easy storage in a corner or by a wall. It has a large, curved seat made of polyurethane to add comfort and style. The steel fan weighs 2.8 kg making it stable yet very lightweight.
The performance monitor of this rowing machine provides all the necessary statistics to stay on top of your workout. It also comes with built-in interval and target programs in case you need extra help staying with your fitness goal.
This rowing machine from Trax utilizes water as its resistance, which gives a realistic feel during every stroke. The water resistance is also lighter on your joints while still effectively burning fats. It is also recommended for people with injuries or those who are a little older.
The LCD performance monitor displays the distance you've traveled, a calorie counter, and the number of strokes you've done. The wood base adds both aesthetic appeal and durability to this machine and is a beautiful addition to any home gym.
The Primus rowing machine makes use of air as its resistance. It comes with a control panel that measures time, distance, calories, and total strokes. It is easy to assemble, which means it can also be split apart for easy storage.
It measures 94 by 93 inches, so it might help to check your floor area before purchase. Users of this product claim that although it is not a well-known brand, it performs and operates much like other popular models. They say it also costs about half of other rowing brands and gives great value for money.
Most water rowers are made of a whole plank of wood which can be great for stability but can take up a lot of floor area. Want a water rowing machine but don't have a lot of space at home? Get this dual-axis household rower as your new go-to gym machine.
This machine folds in half to give you the durability of wood without eating up too much space. It is ideal for use at home as it does not need to be plugged in to run. Thus, your electricity bill won't be affected. It is also made with noise-reducing bearings, making it ideal for indoor use.
Having a problem getting started with rowing? This rower from Rebook comes with 12 pre-set workouts, 3 target programs, and a race mode to get the adrenalin going. It also has a 4 inch LCD screen that shows your speed, time, distance, calories, and other performance statistics.
Don't worry about getting a pair of gloves, as the handlebars come with foam padding for extra comfort. The footplates have velcro straps, so they are easy to put on and release. The rower itself can be adjusted in 6 points to ensure you get a stable and level experience.
The sleek and slim design of this rower makes it ideal for those who live in small apartments or condos but are looking for a piece of cardio gym equipment It is also very affordable without compromising the quality and functionality of the machine.
It utilizes a magnetic wheel weighing only 2.5 kg. It includes 16 resistance levels perfect for both beginners and professional rowers. The machine can be folded and can carry a maximum user weight of 136 kg. The built-in display shows the time and distance traveled, as well as other statistics.
This folding rowing machine by Domyos is the cheapest one on this list. It has a compact design, and folding only takes 5 seconds. It comes out of the box fully assembled, so you can begin working out in no time. It weighs only 13 kg and comes with wheels for easy transport.
It utilizes rowing bands for its resistance and is perfect for total beginners. This machine was designed for a use time of 3 hours per week to maintain its durability and functionality, so it is only ideal for those who work out a couple of days a week.
Unlike most water rowers with a wooden base, this machine has a steel base making it more compact. The wheel inside the water tank has 16 blades which provide the drag during every stroke. The seat is curved for better cushioning and hip support.
It comes with an LCD screen that displays your time, speed, distance traveled, and calories burnt. It has a scroll spring mechanism that makes the movement of the seat much smoother and decreases any strong impacts that could cause injuries.
This rowing machine combines the form of a bike and the function of a rower. The bike lets you work out without much stress on your upper body, joints, and lower back. The seat even comes with back support, giving you a very low-impact exercise.
The cycling pedals work out the major muscles of your legs and improve their form. The semi-reclined position is intended to tone your lower body while giving you an aerobic challenge that increases your heart rate. This is the one of the most effective ways to burn fat and calories.
Hesitant about going back to the gym anytime soon? Why not try building your own gym at home? This way, you get to work out any time of the day or night. You can also invest in the equipment you use most to maximize every minute spent exercising. Check out these articles on some equipment and essentials to complete your home gym.
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Author: Roxanne Beatriz Angeles
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more
No. 1: Concept 2|Model D Rower
No. 2: Renegade|AirMag Rower
No. 3: Trax|Nordic Flow Water Rower
No. 4: Fitness Technologies|Primus Air Rower
No. 5: Baidong|Dual Axis Household Rowing Machine
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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