If you’re looking to purchase a rowing machine, but have no idea what type to go for or what features are important, then you’re in the right place.
Right now, we’re going to take you on a rowing machine buyer's guide, providing you with all of the information you need to purchase the best rowing machine for your needs.
Rowing Machine Benefits: Why Buy a Rowing Machine?
If you're wondering why you would ever buy a rowing machine in the first place, the reason is very simple, because it's one of the best forms of cardiovascular exercise.
On average, you can burn up to 1,000 calories per hour of rowing, not to mention that rowing uses about 85% of your muscles.
This means that not only is it a great form of cardiovascular exercise, but it's also a great type of full-body training that can strengthen you from top to bottom.
What also stands out about rowing is that it helps improve your posture by strengthening your back and forcing you to sit upright. Overall, it's one of the best forms of exercise out there.
Types of Rowing Machines
One of the most important considerations to make when purchasing a rowing machine is the type of rowing machine in question.
As you're about to see below, there are many different types of rowing machines, five main ones in fact. Let's take a quick look at each of the five main types of rowing machines and what benefits they bring to the table.
Hydraulic Rowing Machines
One of the most basic types of rowing machines is the hydraulic rowing machine, which uses air or fluid filled pistons to create resistance. To change the resistance, all you need to do is change the amount of air or fluid compression within the pistons.
What stands out about hydraulic rowing machines is that they are widely available and extremely affordable, in fact some of the most affordable out there.
They're also very easy to store and compact, making them ideal for smaller spaces. In general, they are great for upper body strength training.
However, they do have some drawbacks, including fixed handles that reduce the natural rowing motion by limiting your movement.
This type of rowing machine is also not quite as effective for cardiovascular workouts as some of the other types. With that being said, hydraulic rowing machines are ideal for beginners, those working on tight budgets, and those with spatial constraints.
Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machines
Next, we have magnetic or magnetic resistance rowing machines. These use electromagnets to create resistance, which can also be adjusted.
By moving the magnets closer or farther from the metal flywheel, the resistance can be adjusted. The closer you move from magnet to the flywheel, the higher the resistance will be.
What stands out about magnetic resistance rowing machines is that they come with preset resistance levels so you can structure your workouts and advance as you progress. Furthermore, they're also quite smooth and consistent, not to mention very quiet.
Although resistance does not increase with stroke intensity, the resistance is adjustable. However, some magnetic resistance rowing machines require electric power to operate, not to mention that they can be quite heavy as well.
All in all, magnetic rowing machines are ideal for smaller home gyms that require smooth and quiet operation.
Air Resistance Rowing Machines
The next type of rowing machine to consider is an air resistance rowing machine. These are often hailed for their similarity to water rowers, particularly in terms of the natural feel.
Air rowing machines have a flywheel with fan blades that create air resistance, and the faster you row, the more the resistance is created, therefore mimicking real water rowing.
If you're looking for something that closely replicates real rowing conditions, this is one of the best options to go with. Moreover, the resistance naturally adapts to your rowing intensity. Furthermore, these models generally come with advanced displays for accurate performance tracking.
All of that being said, one of the biggest downsides to an air rower is that it can be quite noisy, not to mention that these models can also be quite large and heavy. If you're a fitness enthusiast, competitive rower, or athlete that means a high performance machine, an air resistance rower is it.
Water Resistance Rowing Machine
If you're looking for the most realistic and natural rowing experience, what you need is a water resistance rowing machine. Water rowing machines have a large water tank with paddles on the inside. These paddles spin as you row, and the harder you pull, the greater the resistance it is.
This closely mimics the drag of a boat through water, therefore providing you with an extremely realistic experience. What also stands out about these rowing machines is that they are also very quiet and smooth. Furthermore, these models are generally made with high quality metal or wood for both aesthetic and durability purposes.
What does, however, need to be mentioned about water resistance rowing machines is that they are extremely expensive. Due to their nature, they are also very heavy and bulky, making them less than ideal for small spaces or for moving around. On that note, they also require occasional water maintenance.
What to Look for in a Rowing Machine
Aside from the different types of rowing machines, there are a variety of factors you need to pay attention to when choosing a rowing machine to suit your needs. Below, we detail all of the factors you need to pay attention to.
Power Source
First, consider the power source, which is going to be either manual with the displays running on battery, or the rowing machine might need to be plugged in. Although those that plug in are more reliable and consistent, they also require you to be close to a power outlet.
The Display
The next thing to consider when choosing a rowing machine is the display. Virtually every rowing machine comes with a display, and these are designed to display various pieces of information, such as calories, RPM, strokes, time, and distance.
With that being said, if you spend a little extra, you can get a larger and clearer display with greater resolution and quality, combined with advanced features and personalized options.
Programs and Integrations
Next, if you want to make the most out of your rowing experience, you'll also want to look for a model that features integrated workout applications and programs. At the very least, a rowing machine that has a few preset programs is called for.
However, if you really want to go the extra mile, you'll want a model that features interactive coaching that helps improve rowing technique, and even live rowing sessions with real life trainers.
You may also look for a smart rowing machine that is able to connect to applications on your tablets or smartphones, so you can record and track all of your fitness progress.
Overall Durability and Weight Capacity
Rowing machines generally have to handle some fairly heavy-duty use, which means that they need to be built using durable materials. Generally speaking, materials such as steel or stainless steel are best, as well as other metal alloys. The more solid and sturdier the materials are, the longer the rowing machine will last.
Not only do sturdy materials affect overall durability, but stability as well. If you have a lightweight rowing machine made with cheap materials, it will likely wobble and move around as you use it, whereas a heavier, more durable, and sturdier rowing machine should remain stable and in place no matter how intensely you row.
On that note, make sure to get a rowing machine that can easily handle your weight. Generally speaking, it is ideal to get a rowing machine that has a weight capacity which greatly exceeds your own weight.
Size, Length, and Seat Rail
Of course, something that you always want to pay attention to when choosing any type of exercise equipment is its size. If you have a very large space, then size is not much of an issue. However, if you live in an apartment or just have a small home, you'll want to go for something a little bit more compact.
On that note, there are rowing machines that have frames which can fold in half, therefore effectively cutting down their size and allowing you to easily store them in small spaces.
With that being said, keep in mind that folding rowing machines are inherently less durable as the folding mechanism is generally a weak spot.
In terms of size, you also need to look at the seat rail. This is especially the case if you're over six feet tall, because if the seat rail is not long enough for you, you won't be able to complete a full stroke.
Pedals and Handles
Finally, you also want to pay attention to both the pedals and the handles. Some rowing machines come with fixed pedals, which are fine, but if you want your rowing machine to be as comfortable as possible, go for pedals that can pivot.
This will help take some of the pressure off of your ankles. Furthermore, to keep you comfortable, you'll also want a rowing machine that has a sturdy yet well-padded handle, something with good grip so you can easily hold on to it.
How Much Should I Expect to Spend on a Rowing Machine?
If you're wondering how much you can expect to spend on a rowing machine, these vary in price quite greatly. For instance, you can get a cheap and low-end rowing machine for around £150, although these won't come with any special features or great levels of durability.
Next, you can find rowing machines for under £1,000, and these would generally be considered mid-range. These usually have magnetic or air resistance, and they typically come with a good deal of features as well.
However, if you really want the best of the best, you can expect to spend upwards of £1,000. As is the case with many things, you often get what you pay for, and with rowing machines, the more advanced features and durability you want, the more you'll have to spend.
Rowing Machine Buyers Guide: Final Thoughts
There you have it folks, everything you need to know about how to choose the right rowing machine for your needs. Consider the type of rowing machine and all the features it comes with, and you should have no problems choosing a rowing machine that suits your needs and preferences.
