With the increased popularity of boutique fitness classes, rowing machines have become highly trendy for working out. These machines are also found in big box gyms, and nowadays, as people start to work in their home gyms, the market for rowing machines is expanding.

When choosing the perfect rowing machine for personal use, it can be difficult to find a good one with all the essential features within the estimated budget.

Buying a top-notch rowing machine requires extensive knowledge of each part and technicalities and a strong budge substantial budget; various rowing machines are available for each type of person based on their requirements.

1. Types of Rowing Machines

Many rowing machines are based on different technologies: air, water, existing, magnetic, and hydraulic.

1.1. Air Rowers

The air rowers have a fan attached to the flywheel. When the handles are pulled, the fan turns on and pulls the air in. The more pulling, the more resistance it creates.

1.2. Water Rowers

Water rowers have a built-in water tank with the attached paddles inside. The harder you pull, the more resistance is created by the movement of water.

1.3. Magnetic Rowers

There is a flywheel and magnets that work together to produce resistance. They provide a fixed resistance rate irrespective of how hard you pull.

1.4. Hydraulic Rowers

Hydraulic rowers are not as effective as other rowers as they do not provide a smooth experience. These are based on the concept of hydraulic pistons that generate resistance.

2. Factors to Consider While Choosing a Right Rowing Machine

Purchasing a rowing machine for your home can become one of the best decisions or a complete waste of money. One should consider various things before buying it, especially whether you will use it regularly or not.

Spending time on a rowing machine can irritate you if you have never used one, but if you have already tried one and enjoyed it, it is a plus point to buy it.

Rowing machines used in gyms are top-notch products that often provide smooth experiences to people. A gym has almost every type of product, but when choosing just one for personal use, there are multiple factors to consider when selecting the suitable rowing machine.

Mentioned below are the 13 factors to consider while choosing a suitable machine: 

2.1. Easy Maintenance

The rowing machine is a large piece of equipment. Its maintenance should be considered. Machines with switchable and detachable parts are easier to maintain than machines with features like fans and chains.

A rowing machine with complex parts must be done professionally, while an easy-maintenance machine can be repaired easily. However, another thing to consider is that a water rower machine requires water periodically, whereas fan-based rowing machines do not require ground 

2.2. Noise

Checking the background noise that a rowing machine produces is extremely important, especially when using it in an open space. Also, people who live in apartments may like to buy a rowing machine that makes less noise. For instance, many people may like quiet rowing machines like WaterRower, and others may prefer fan-based machines that make more noise.

2.3. Manageable Size

Rowing machines require significant floor space to get placed. It is essential to consider the placing area as it should not affect the daily needed space in an apartment when the machine is not in use. However, a rower can be folded or placed vertically to save space.

Rowing machines relieve people with space limitations in their homes or apartments. Most rowing machine models are space-saving and available in folds.

Two choices can help save space: either keep the rower upright or buy rowing machines with folding systems.

However, the upright rower system is also sound as it takes less space and can easily be kept in a side corner when not in use. Also, many rowers come with attached moving wheels, so they can be moved around to keep in a new place.

2.4. Comfortable Seating

While using a rowing machine, you must sit in the same position for a prolonged period of comfort in seating; choose a machine that suits your body posture well. Adjusting your posture every time to make yourself comfortable while working out on the rowing machine distracts you from the main activity.

Also, you may want a seat located at a private distance from the ground. Getting up and off might be difficult if the rower is too low. So, a chair must be comfortable enough to sit for an extended period and high enough to get cozy.

2.5. Resistance Choices

There are some types of resistance available in rowing machines. Air and water resistance are known to be ices for maximum resistance and a smooth and calm experience.

Further, some rowing machines do not have alterable resistance; this type of resistance changes according to how hard you pull. At the same time, other rowing machines have alterable resistance options that can be adjusted throughout the workout however you want.

These machines might be helpful for people with a particular workout routine and goals.

Resistance lets you know how smooth, quiet, and joint-friendly the rowing machine is. Some popular types of resistance choices are given below:

2.5.1. Air Resistance

A flywheel attached to a fan generates resistance in the air rowers. The Houthis are joined to the handle. When a person pulls the handle, with the help of a chain, the flywheel starts rotating, creating air resistance.

This resistance can be adjusted in most air rowers by changing the fan with a lever. Pulling harder produces more resistance.

It is a hard-wearing and durable choice that provides a broad range of resistance, which can be adjusted automatically and manually. However, air resistance creates more noise mainly when used in small areas.

2.5.2. Water Resistance

Water rowing machines utilize water to generate resistance. They are best known for providing a natural feel. Generally, these machines are belt-operated, and this belt is tied to a fan inside a tank filled with water.

The belt begins moving the fan while pulling, and the water resists the fan’s movement, which creates water resistance. In water rowing machines, the resistance is entirely controlled by the user. The more challenging you pull, the more resistance it generates.

In some cases, the resistance can also be adjusted manually with the help of a lever. Learning the correct rowing techniques takes some time, as they naturally create resistance when a person rows faster.

Water rowing machines do not make noise. However, they are not as silent as magnetic rowers and not as loud as air rowers. Also, the sound these water rowers produce is pleasant, like waterfalls or moving water sounds.

These machines have an attractive appearance that looks elegant in the living room due to the wooden frame. Further, water rowers are expensive machines as compared to other rowers.

2.5.3. Bungee Rope Resistance

The bungee rope rowing machines are simple and budget-friendly, especially for beginners. They allow you to control the rope and adjust the resistance manually. These rowers are a great choice in terms of cost and are excellent for small spaces as they are portable.

Further, these machines do not provide much resistance, and you may be after swiftly reaching the limit. Also, they have a compact size, which makes them unsuitable for taller users. Resistance is quite limited here, so these are primarily suitable for beginners.

2.5.4. Hybrid Resistance

Hybrid rowers are an excellent combination of air and magnetic rowing machines. Magnets control the lighter strokes to provide a quiet, smooth experience with controlled resistance. You must apply a strengthened stroke to make the fan spin from the air resistance to add more resistance.

Magnetic rowers are quiet but have constant resistance, while hybrid rowers allow you to extend the resistance levels while providing a smooth feel. Many foldable hybrid rowers in the market do not take up extra space when not in use.

Further, these can make some noise while using the fan to get air resistance.

2.5.5. Magnetic Resistance

Magnetic rowers also have flywheel-like air rowers that produce resistance. However, they use strong magnets instead of the fan to control the resistance strength. These magnets move further away from each lower resistance and closer to each other to create higher resistance.

Further, this resistance type remains constant and is not affected by your stroke. The resistance is always the same and can be cooled or adjusted from the machine’s dashboard.

The magnetic rowing machines are generally smooth and quiet. However, it provides a fixed and limited range of resistance that does not change with the powerful strides.

2.6. Versatile Foot Straps

A rowing machine has two separate foot pads to put both feet inside. Afterwards, it is crucial to fasten the feet in the pads to keep them fixed in place. Ensure the foot straps are versatile and adjustable enough to keep your feet comfortable.

This feature is essential when feet are smaller or larger than the average size.  

2.7. Add-on Features

The fitness industry is rapidly moving towards the world of digital and tech. Many companies nowadays are working on providing the best technical features to improve equipment quality, such as more giant monitors or screens.

Additional attachments on some rowers provide full screens to stream your workout. These add-on features are mostly high-tech attachments on the rower. The add-on features are crucial for some people; asking the company beforehand is better.

2.8. Console Stats

All rowing machines have an ergometer and apparatus to measure a person’s expended energy levels. However, some rowing machine models might show basic stats such as power and meters.

A user-friendly dashboard might be helpful to and helpful for new g machines beginners. However, a console or dashboard that contains and can show in-depth details is better for many people.

A dashboard packed with data stats and tracking options provides a competitive edge and helps improve the goals associated with rowing machines.

2.9. Smart Features

People like to have various intelligent features on their rowing machines. These may not be necessary for cardio workouts, but they improve the quality of equipment and make it better as a high-tech machine.

Innovative features include streaming capabilities, Wi-Fi connections, Bluetooth and headphone connections, pre-programmed workouts, and the ability to sync with third-party applications. It also includes a heart rate monitor. These features can improve a person’s rowing experience, and many of them are crucial.

2.10. Fixed Screen Positioning

Some machines come with a fixed and large display to stream workouts live. One thing that must be considered when looking for a rowing machine with a built-in display is that the screen should be fixed at eye level so you do not need to strain your neck to watch the streaming while working out.

An ideal screen is large and adjustable during the workout, so you can feel at ease while streaming live.

2.11. Rail

The rowing machine’s seat is fixed on a rail, an essential factor to consider before buying. The rail affects the noise and stability of the seat during movements.

Many rowing machines, such as Life Fitness HX Trainer, have a haveil system.

2.12. Handles

The ideal handlebars have excellent grip even when hands get sweaty after working out for a certain period. Handlebars with an anti-slippery coating provide a better grip. Further, a few models come with a heart rate sensor attached to the handlebars. This feature saves you from buying an additional chest strap to measure heart rate.

2.13. Design

The design or architecture of the rowing machine is one of the essential aspects that must be considered before purchasing it. Many people prefer to buy rowers for their home gyms, and at that time, the design should be chosen to match your home and style well.

Nowadays, rowers with wooden looks are trending to give a stylish look to the machine and often suit the interiors of people’s homes.

When people do not want to keep a heavy and oversized metal piece in the middle of their living rooms, wooden rowers become the first and classy choice. With a wide range of wooden colour choices and aesthetic designs, it becomes easier to find a suitable design that can complement your style and requirements.

3. 4 Best Rowing Machines Options

The four best rowing machines to buy are given below.

3.1. Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine

The Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine is among the top choices, providing a smooth feel and excellent stability. It is a magnetic resistance-based rower that can be mounted vertically to machine in. Thanks to its high-tech stability, its beings are super cozy, and its rubbery handlebars provide an excellent grip. The adjustable and wide footrest easily adapts to different foot sizes and shapes.

It weighs around 102 pounds and can take up to 375 pounds. 

3.2. Peloton Row Basics

The Peloton Row Basics is a magnetic mechanism-based rowing machine with impressive adjustability, performance, and comfort. One of the best features is its high-tech, adjustable, and fantastic-quality display.

It also provides helpful tips while working out to improve your experience. It comes with a vertical wall mount and wheels that help move it quickly, and it requires less space to get placed; it may be a bit pricey. Also, the machine’s seat is narrow, which may not suit every person well.

This rowing machine weighs 156.5 pounds and can support up to 300 pounds. It provides a smooth rowing experience and has a clear, prominent, 23.8-prominent high-definition screen that can be adjusted to your needs.  

3.3. Ergatta Rower

Ergatta Rower is based on the water mechanism, which provides superb stability, adjustability and performance. It has an attached display with a crystal-clear screen and high-quality audio.

It can weigh up to 500 pounds and is 75.6 pounds without water. However, the handles are short, and the seat is not as cozy as other rowing machines. It’s a good choice for people who enjoy rowing outdoors with a realistic feel and sound of water.

Further, one of its plus points is it has foldable wheels and arms, which make it easily movable from one room to another. Its screen comes with pre-programmed games to motivate working out.

3.4. Echelon Row-S

The Echelon Row-S is one of the best folding rowers with solid stability. It has an adjustable screen with 32 resistance levels, including two water bottle holders. The machine is based on a magnetic mechanism and can weigh up to 300 pounds.

It can be folded easily so that it does not use excessive space in an area. However, its resistance controls are built on the handles, and some people may not like this feature. Further, its padded seat is super comfortable and can make the workout enjoyable. This rower is excellent for beginners. 

4. Things to Test in a Rowing Machine

Though there are many considerations to finding an excellent rower, several things mentioned below should be tested physically to choose the suitable rowing machine.

4.1. Performance

Overall, the performance of the rower must be good. The mechanism should provide a smooth feel during the rowing. A rower that makes less sound is considered good as it does not disturb the people in the surroundings.

A performance can better be tested by rowing on it for a while or taking live sessions. Also, check how the console apps sync and whether they function well.

4.2. Stability

A top-notch rowing machine must be stable and solid enough to keep you safe while rowing on it. You can test stability by rowing on it; if it shakes or wobbles in the middle of the workout, that means the stability is not strong enough.

4.3. Monitor

The digital monitor attached to the rower must show a broad range of data. Its audio must be high-quality, and the screen must be adjustable.

4.4. Cozy

The handles, seats, and footrests make the rowing experience cozy and comfortable. The handles must be grippy, and the seat should be padded and wide for a great experience. If any irritation happens in the hands or feet, the experience becomes annoying.

4.5. Adjustability

Adjustability is essential, primarily when many people work on the rower. The monitors and footrests must be adjustable according to different people’s requirements.

4.6. Value

The value of a rower should be based on the overall performance of it. Rowers that have high score values often cost less.

5. Conclusion

Working out on the rowing machines has become popular and is an excellent way to get into a great cardio workout routine. Before buying a rowing machine, one must consider various factors associated with a rower’s performance. Among the four choices available in types of rowers, each person may have different requirements for their workout routines and rowing machines that they will buy.

Last Updated on May 5, 2024 by Khushahal Malakar