The Best Rowing Machines, According To Our Gear Experts

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Leoni Jesner Contributor Forbes Vetted Contributor Group Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. Aug 28, 2023, 05:03pm EDT | Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to Linkedin The best rowing machines provide an effective, full body workout without putting excess pressure on your joints. Originally used by crew teams during dryland training, rowing machines are now an essential piece of equipment for personal trainers, fitness enthusiasts and CrossFit goers alike.

It’s not hard to see why; these machines are generally quieter than treadmills and more effective than exercise bikes since they help strengthen muscle groups across the entire body—legs, glutes, core, arms, back and shoulders included. And rather than sprinting down a track or partaking in plyometric workouts, both of which place stress on your joints, rowing is a much gentler method of burning calories and developing muscles. These four rowing machines are among the best you can buy.

ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / IMAGE: RETAILERS That said, there are a lot of rowing machines to consider. Due to an uptick in at-home cardio, a myriad of brands have launched their own rowing machines. To find options that best fit your home gym , we evaluated dozens of rowing machines under the guidance of ACE-certified personal trainer Leoni Jesner .

Spoiler alert: Our overall favorite rower right now is the Concept2 RowErg , but we’ve included five other machines that meet a variety of needs—budget, space and technical capabilities included. Best Rowing Machine Overall: Concept2 RowErg Best Water Rowing Machine: The Ergatta Rower Best Budget Rowing Machine: Sunny Health & Fitness Machine Rower Best Magnetic Rowing Machine: Hydrow Rower Best Foldable Rowing Machine: Echelon Row Connected Rowing Machine Best High-Tech Rowing Machine: NordicTrack RW900 Best Rowing Machine Overall Great For Beginners And Pros Alike Concept2 Concept2 RowErg Buy From Amazon Dimensions: 24 x 96 x 20 inches | Weight: 64 pounds | Resistance: Air | Display: PM5 LCD There are many reasons competitive rowing coaches favor this particular rower, but chief among them is the ease of use. While many collegiate-level rowers have previous experience, schools also have a high percentage of walk-on athletes.

This machine is good for both learners and pros. In addition, it’s relatively affordable (particularly compared to other options) and incredibly durable—which it needs to be to stand up to the demand of rigorous training day after day. Resistance is delivered via a flywheel and damper, and a nickel-plated chain requires occasional oiling.

The RowErg’s performance monitor tracks speed, strokes per minute, kilometers rowed, and more. It can also connect via Bluetooth to a multitude of apps (including Concept2’s own free app, ErgData). Conveniently, it also has a device holder for your phone or tablet, which means you can catch up on shows while you get your workout in.

What the reviews say: “This product is the BEST piece of exercise equipment I have ever purchased,” says one buyer. “It is made with superior quality. It is easy to use and easy to store when not in use.

I am so impressed. ” Pros: Easy to assemble Max weight capacity of 500 pounds Onboard games improve the experience Cons: Some users cite an uncomfortable seat Screen is outdated compared to newer models Best Water Rowing Machine Exercise Equipment That Doubles As A Work Of Art MOST POPULAR Ergatta The Ergatta Rower Buy From Ergatta Dimensions: 86 x 23 x 40 inches | Weight: 106 pounds | Resistance: Water | Display: Full-HD touchscreen If you’re looking to be challenged with your rowing machine, literally and figuratively, the Ergatta is a good choice. While it has the same functionality as other rowers—you can do free, steady-state rows and workouts of your own design—it also has a game-based workout platform wherein you can virtually race other rowers, do training sessions, compete in challenges, and more with the 17.

3 inch HD monitor. A horizontally mounted water tank delivers the adjustable resistance. Like Hydrow (another top pick on this list), there’s a monthly membership fee, though it’s more affordable at $29 per month for the additional features.

And it’s definitely worth noting that with a cherry wood frame, this Ergatta is visually stunning. While you could store it vertically, we’d understand if you wanted to leave it out all the time for guests to admire. What our editors say: Gear editor Cam Vigliotta raves, “The Ergatta Rower is perhaps one of the nicest pieces of at-home fitness equipment I’ve ever used.

After loaning it from a friend, I’ve fallen in love with its blend of natural materials and high-tech features that elevate any workout. ” Pros: Vibrant touchscreen display Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity Beautiful, quality craftsmanship Supports up to 500 pounds and a 40-inch inseam Cons: Pricey Foot straps may become loose over time Best Budget Rowing Machine An Affordable Introductory Rower Amazon Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine Dimensions: 89 x 18. 9 x 23.

6 inches | Weight: 60. 9 pounds | Resistance: Magnetic | Display: LCD Although it’s not the most advanced piece of gym equipment on the market, the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rower offers a bundle of functions for a steal. The quiet magnetic system has eight adjustable resistance levels to alter the intensity when you need it.

There’s also an LCD console to track your workout by displaying time, calories, total reps and more. Comfort elements include a padded seat, anti-slip handlebars and foot pedals, as well as a heavy-duty steel frame that helps keep the machine stable. Plus, the 48-inch slide rail length means taller rowers can benefit too.

When your workout is finished, built-in wheels make for easy maneuvering if you want to hide the rower away. What the reviews say: “This product caught my eye because the reviews were good and the price was quite reasonable,” writes one reviewer. “After using it for a month, I must say that it was a great buy.

The rower is very smooth and more than long enough for me to get a full row. I am 5’8. ” Pros: More affordable than many other models Extra-long 48-inch slide rail to benefit taller rowers Transportation wheels Cons: Some reviewers found the folding process finicky Best Magnetic Rowing Machine Smooth, Silent And The Trendiest Of Rowers Best Buy Hydrow Rower Dimensions: 86 x 25 x 47 inches | Weight: 145 pounds | Resistance: Electronic magnet | Display: HD touchscreen What makes rowing such a challenging workout is the resistance.

In some machines, that resistance is caused by water; in others, it’s moving air. In magnetic rowing machines, that resistance happens when two strong magnets move past each other. That translates to a quieter and more compact machine.

While there are myriad magnetic rowers, Hydrow is arguably the best. Sometimes called the Peloton of rowers, it has a 22-inch mounted HD touchscreen (that can pivot 25 degrees in each direction) with more than 500 pre-recorded rowing sessions. If you jump into one of the river sessions, it can actually feel like you’re on the water, thanks to the smooth-as-silk 10-roller seat.

It’s worth noting, however, that if you want to experience the full capabilities of the machine (by which I mean all the live and on-demand classes), you’ll need to pay an additional $38 per month for a subscription to the online classes. What the reviews say: “I’ve been rowing on various machines for years at gyms. This one is solid and constructed very well.

I love how quiet it is and how the pull feels. The screen is large and the content is great to keep you motivated. ” Pros: Large, colorful display Built-in speakers pump up the tunes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity Cons: More expensive than other options Limited activity options without a paid subscription Best Foldable Rowing Machine Easy To Use And Easy To Store Echelon Fit US Echelon Row Connected Rowing Machine Dimensions: 84.

65 x 20. 47 X 43. 7 inches | Weight: 120 pounds | Resistance: Electronic magnet | Display: None If you’re interested in rowing but don’t have a lot of space to spare, you might consider a foldable rig.

Echelon’s Row Connected Rowing Machine relies on a magnetic resistance system and is one of the few that truly folds (most are simply made to be stored upright or taken apart). Beyond its origami-like capabilities, what sets this ergometer apart is the resistance buttons built into the handlebar, so you can toggle the intensity up or down without mid-stroke. Another cool design element is the device holder, where you can place a phone or tablet.

What the reviews say: “This product is sturdy, silent, and gives a good workout,” writes a reviewer. “It folds and moves easily, and unfolding and locking is easy. I am happy with my purchase and have been using it a few times a week for a couple months.

” Pros: Easily folds in half to save space Bluetooth resistance controller built into the handles Suite of live and on-demand classes Cons: Doesn’t feature a built-in screen Limited functionality without membership Best High-Tech Rowing Machine The Workout Ends With Tips To Help You Improve NordicTrack NordicTrack RW900 Rowing Machine Dimensions: 86. 5 x 22 x 50. 4 inches | Weight: 130.

6 pounds | Resistance: Electronic magnet | Display: HD touchscreen Rowing machines have become increasingly high-tech in the last few years, but NordicTrack’s RW900 might take the cake. With resistance delivered by magnets across a wide 26 levels, it’s among the most adjustable magnetic rowers. And not only can you stream classes on-demand with personal trainers, but your trainer can adjust your resistance automatically so you can focus on your technique (and getting your workout in).

Once you’ve completed your row, you get access to workout stats on the 22-inch rotating Smart HD touchscreen and tips on what you can do to improve. NordicTrack also has a patented SpaceSaver Design, meaning it folds for easy storage. What the reviews say: “This NordicTrack RW900 is a fantastic piece of workout equipment especially with the 22’’ monitor.

The visuals make a huge difference in satisfaction. I am glad I went with this model. ” Pros: Powerful 30-watt sound system 26 resistance levels Automatic trainer control Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity Cons: Users report that some trainers don’t mirror intended workout MORE FROM FORBES VETTED Lenovo Slim Pro 9i Review: Portable Power With A Hefty Compromise By Adam Doud Contributor The 5 Best Resorts In Turks & Caicos By Kim Peiffer Forbes Staff Why Trust Forbes Vetted The Forbes Vetted team has researched and written their way through dozens of gear and workout guides, including stories on elliptical machines and spin bikes .

As for the best rowing machines, we combined hours of research with our team’s firsthand experience. Co-author Leoni Jesner is an ACE-certified personal trainer, pilates instructor and nutrition coach, while Forbes contributor Bailey Berg covers all things yoga and recovery. (You may need one of the best massage chairs after a workout on one of these rowing machines.

) Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta , who oversees updates to this guide, also has robust experience with workout gear. He’s constantly reviewing the newest exercise equipment, including one of the picks on this list, The Ergatta Rower . To keep this guide current and accurate, we also update it frequently.

It was last updated in August 2023 to further explain how we chose the best rowing machines featured on this list. How We Chose The Best Rowing Machines As an investment piece for your home gym, a rowing machine shouldn’t be purchased on a whim. That’s why we carefully researched the best rowing machines, using customer reviews and expert insights to guide our search.

We first sought out popular models from reputable brands like Concept2, Hydrow and NordicTrack. We then tailored our list to align with customer reviews and our experts’ insights. All six of the rowing machines in our guide have a rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars, plus one rower comes personally recommended by Vetted’s gear editor ( The Ergatta ).

After determining which rowing machines are well-liked by customers and our gear experts, we compared each model in terms of resistance style, quality of materials, price and extra features. Lastly, we selected models to fit different needs and preferences. For example, the Sunny Health & Fitness Machine Rower is a good choice for those on a budget, while the Echelon Row Connected Rowing Machine is best for those tight on space—simply fold the machine to stow it away when not in use.

Is A Water Or Magnetic Rower Better? Rowing machines rely on resistance to help you work up a sweat, and the two most common forms of resistance are water and magnetism. Which one is right for you depends not only on your needs, but your environment as well. For instance, magnetic rowing machines are incredibly quiet which might come in handy if you live in an apartment, but the technology doesn’t mimic the rowing-on-water experience that so many enjoy.

Water rowers, on the other hand, offer a unique experience that resembles the natural movement of rowing in water, but they tend to be more expensive and require a bit of maintenance. Again, the one you choose will be a matter of personal preference. What Are Rowing Machines Good For? A rowing machine mimics the same motion and resistance as actual water rowing.

Not only is it a cardio sport that increases your heart rate for endurance, it’s a strength training workout that targets major muscles across your body. You can set the resistance and pace to increase or reduce the intensity as and when you want. One of its major benefits above other cardio machines is that it’s low-impact and places limited stress on your joints.

As you get into a rowing rhythm, your body will start to naturally move through the motion. But the workout is tough—you can’t slack off without losing momentum and as a result, it constantly challenges you. Is Rowing A Good Way To Lose Weight? Yes, rowing is an effective form of cardio for weight loss if you want to drop some body fat.

One study among 20 participants found that a 6-week indoor rowing program decreased both fat mass and total body fat percentage. This is due in part to the cardio element, which helps elevate your heart rate and torch calories. It’s also an excellent machine for boosting your lean muscle as rowing recruits around 85% of the total muscles in your body.

Combining cardio and strength training exercises is especially effective at boosting and maintaining your weight loss efforts. Bailey Berg Leoni Jesner Editorial Standards Print Reprints & Permissions.