Rowing machine

What is a rowing machine?

Commonly called an ergometer, this machine is a piece of gym equipment that is designed to mimic the actions of the muscles used when rowing a boat.

The machines are particularly useful for those seeking a low impact form of exercise that is proven to both help with calorie loss and building muscle.

How does a rowing machine work?

All the machines have 2 basic components that are the same. One of these is the sliding seat and the other is that varying levels of resistance can be applied to this. It is this resistance that will burn the calories and help build up the muscle.

The resistance can be provided by a variety of different methods including air, fluid or wind. A water rowing machine will provide the nearest experience to rowing a boat whereas a hydraulic (powered by air or fluid) machine is a good choice when space is tight.

Some of the best rowing machine

Sportplus Indoor Rower – Rowing Machine

The inbuilt computer is able to record data from each training session,

This machine is very quiet, ideal for those with neighbours close by,

Provides 8 different modes of resistance, making it suitable for people with varying levels of fitness

Can be folded up to a smaller size for ease of storage.

Home Rowing Machine-Folding

A cheaper to buy rowing machine that still offers many levels of resistance,

The LCD display provides useful data such as distance travelled and calorie count,

This foldable rowing machine has wheels attached making it easy to transport and store,

Frequently described as very comfortable on many rowing machine reviews.

Foldable Superior Rowing Machine

A best rowing machine for the heavier user as can accommodate weights of up to 130kg,

Available in silver or black to stylishly blend into your home environment,

This folding rowing machine has transportation wheels attached for ease of movement and storage,

Comes complete with a 2 year warranty for home repairs.

WaterRower A1 Series Rowing Machine

This rowing machine for sale is ideal for those wanting to replicate real rowing as closely as possible.

The machine has a self regulating resistance mechanism, meaning that the harder the user pulls the higher the resistance provided,

The machine has a stylish wooden frame ensuring it will blend in well at home,

Very quick and simple to assemble with easy to follow instructions.

Luxury Home Rowing Machine

A cheap to buy rowing machine, yet offers varying levels of resistance and user data,

Has inbuilt wheels making it easy to move from one place to another,

This folding rowing machine is also compact, ideal for those short on space,

Resistance is provided magnetically, making it one of the quieter models.

Bodymax Infiniti R90 Rowing Machine – White

This is a best rowing machine for tall people, allowing a full stroke,

Integrated with 12 different programs, including heart rate control,

Complete with in built motivational fitness sessions including race mode,

Remote control on the handle enables program change without stopping workout.

Rowing machine with smartphone control

Features inbuilt technology compatible with Smartphone apps for ease of program set up and monitoring,

Complete with 16 resistance levels, making it suitable for persons of all levels of athletic ability,

Adjustable rowing cord and pedals are available, therefore accommodating users of a variety of sizes,

Comes highly recommended in many rowing machine reviews, particularly complimenting the sturdy structure.

Henley Magnetic Foldable Rowing Machine

Computer feedback includes distance, time and calorie count,

The aluminium seat and transport wheel makes it light and easy to move around,

The large foam padded seat ensures comfort throughout the workout,

Assembly is straightforward, enabling users to quickly begin their workout regime..

We R Sports Premium Rowing Machine

A very cheap folding rowing machine,

The seat is padded with foam for comfort,

The LCD display shows distance, time and speed,

Scores highly in rowing machine reviews in regards to it’s value for money,

PremierFit R400 Rowing Machine

Comes with integral floor protectors to help protect your surface at home,

Designed for comfort, this model has pivoting footplates and a moulded, padded seat,

8 different resistance levels are available, therefore making it suitable for people of varying fitness levels,

The aluminium rowing beam and ball-bearing rollers allow for a smoother rowing

VidaXL Rowing Machine Home Excercise

One of the cheapest rowing machines on the market,

At just 14.9kg, is very light and easy to move around,

Ideal for those with little space who want a simple workout,

The feet are made from non-skid rubber to prevent scratches.

What are the benefits of a rowing machine?

Ergometers are a great choice for those wanting to improve their overall aerobic fitness, build or tone up their muscles and improve their stamina. One machine is able to provide a workout for both the upper and lower body.

Another key advantage is that ergometers are low impact which means that in comparison to some other pieces of gym equipment, such as the treadmill, less stress is placed upon the joints of the body when in use.

How much can I expect to pay?

A rowing machine for sale can cost anywhere between £85 and £15,000 depending on the specifications of the model.

At the lower end of the scale, a cheap rowing machine will offer a few options of resistance and be simple to operate, ideal for the infrequent or casual user. At the opposite end of the scale, the ergometer will offer more modes and computer operated feedback.

The material from which it is made will also make a difference to the price. Machines that are composed of a steel frame are often much cheaper than those made from expensive wood.

What to look out for?

How much will I use it?

As mentioned above, if you only intend to use the ergometer occasionally then there is no reason to spend a lot of money as you can buy a cheap rowing machine that will easily meet your needs.

Where will it be stored?

If space is tight, it may be worth considering buying a foldable rowing machine. These will still offer the various modes as a standard machine yet can easily be stored away when not in use.

What is my level of ability and what information do I need from it?

A person in training for competition will be better placed to buy a water rowing machine as this provides a truer representation of competing outside. However, for the non competitive person, air rowing machines are a better choice as are compact yet still offer a variety of modes and feedback.

How to use a rowing machine?

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.