Rowing is one of the most efficient ways to work out your heart and the rest of your body. It is not true that rowing machines are only for professional rowers who need to keep in shape off-season.

Rowing is easy to do for anyone. Even for someone rowing for the first time, it does not take long to hang it. By watching a handful of tutorials, you can learn how to get a great workout from rowing!

A rowing machine provides many benefits in a workout, so many people choose to own it at home. What stops a person from buying is not whether it has benefits, and it is how to select the right one that fits his needs.

If that person is you, you are in the right place. This buyer’s guide is perfect for those looking to buy a rowing machine for the first time.

Here are steps you should take before spending your money on this wonderful machine:

How To Choose the Best Rowing Machine?

1. Determine How Much Space You Have At Home

Maybe this is a given, but it cannot be taken for granted. If you have your heart set on a particular rowing machine model, but you find out at the end that you do not have the room for it, then you have wasted your time and effort in your research.

So, don’t let that happen to you, and figure out your space before doing anything else. The average rowing machine takes about as much floor space as a loveseat. You can use this general guideline when trying to plan out your workout space.

Usually, rowing machines that use a hydraulic system take up less space than ones that use water or air resistance, which are larger.

2. Determine What Your Budget Is, And Don’t Go Over

Rowing machines can range from $100 up to $3,000. So, figure out how much you can afford and look within your affordability range. That should narrow down your choices.

Having a budget keeps you from looking at other higher-end models that might have the latest bells and whistles, and it keeps you grounded and your expectations real.

The higher quality models will naturally be more expensive, just like most other things you buy. When you are figuring out your budget, consider that.

You do get what you pay for. Do not fall into the trap like many people who gave a budget model a bad rating because they expected high-quality features of the advanced models, which is not realistic.

Also, do not start shopping before figuring out how much you can afford on this machine. Prices can go from a low of $100 to a high of $3000 and above. If you want something of higher quality, be prepared to spend a higher price. Here is a price gauge as a rule of thumb:

• Low-end: $400 and less
• Mid-range: $400 – $700
• High-end: $700 and above

That does not mean that only high-end machines have good quality, and there are many good quality machines in the other two tiers. One of the popular rowing machines recommended in this buying guide is in the low-end category.

The price ranges reflect the quality and high-tech features of the design. In general, they cost less than treadmills. If cost is your main concern, go with the budget-level machines.

| What Does A Low-End Rowing Machine Include?

In general, rowing machines with magnetic or hydraulic piston resistance are in this category. If you just want a basic rowing machine to work on and prefer not to spend too much on it, this is the right category.

These are suitable for short workout routines several times a week. Do your research to find deals. Beware of low-quality builds and short warranties at this level. Some machines don’t even have a monitor, or at the most, a very basic one.

| Mid-Range Rowing Machines

These machines usually have a solid build with a monitor full of features. You can find magnetic, air, or water resistance machines in this tier. These machines will last you a long time. Here are some of the features that you can expect to get:

• A built-in performance monitor that can track your calories burned, time and speed, number of strokes, and more
• Bluetooth capabilities
• Durable build, warranty up to five years
• Water-resistance machines provide a realistic rowing-on-water experience (expect to spend closer to $700)

This tier is for people who are quite serious about getting a good workout on a rower. They want to spend a little more for better quality and experience because they want to stick with it for a long time.

| Hight-End Rowing Machines

Here, you get the cream of the crop. You can expect to find fancy displays, high-tech design, and more technology integration on your monitor. You can find machines with dual types of resistance, like the air/water rowing machine from Hydrow that costs more than $2,000.

High-tech monitors can connect to third-party apps. The monitor uses the performance data that the machine stores and customizes your workout, and guides you along. You’ll get more support in achieving your fitness goal faster.

How Do You Plan To Use the Rowing Machine?

Of course, you are going to use it for your workout. However, there are other things to think about in using this.

Is your machine going to be used at home or in a gym?

You can use all indoor rowers at home. However, you cannot use all indoor rowers in commercial places like health clubs, gyms, etc.

If you are buying for a machine to use at home, any model will be acceptable. If you are buying it for commercial purposes, you have to ensure that the device is built for heavy-duty use and is commercial grade.

Will Another Person Also Be Using This Rowing Machine?

If you plan to share this rowing machine with someone, you must get a model that offers different resistance levels that will accommodate your strength levels.

Don’t forget that each machine has its limits on height and weight. So, be sure to select a rowing machine that will fit everyone who will use it.

Advanced machines have monitors that can keep track of the performance of different users and store their information.

It also depends on how many people will use it and how often. If your household has five people and they all will be using the rower a lot, you will probably need a semi-commercial machine.

A couple of rowing machines designed for many users are the models from WaterRower, like their Natural Rowing Machine, and the Concept2 Model D, which is made for home and commercial use.

3. The Different Types of Resistance

There are four types of resistance used by rowing machines: hydraulic piston, magnetic, air, and water. A combination of air and magnetic is also available. Each resistance method has its pros and cons. If you learn what these are, you will be better positioned to make an informed decision.

When you know which resistance type you prefer and have a budget, you can narrow down your choices. Here is an overview of each type of resistance:

| Air Resistance

Most gyms have rowing machines that use air resistance. The resistance increases when the user rows more intensely. When the rowing decreases in intensity, the resistance drops too.

The air resistance is caused by air flowing through the fan blades. The higher the resistance, the more noise it makes. It does provide the user with a smooth rowing experience.

Pros:

• The range of resistance levels is wide
• Action is smooth
• The resistance matches your intensity

Cons:

• Machine can get noisy
• It might take a beginner longer to learn the rowing techniques

| Hydraulic Piston Resistance

This type is compact, so it stores when you’re not using it. You can adjust the resistance, and the hydraulic system makes little noise. Compared to rowers that use the other methods of resistance, these rowers are the lowest in price.

Pros:

• Lowest in cost
• Less noise than rowers that use air resistance
• Compact and/or foldable
• Portable
• Your arms get a workout, too, because the rowing action requires your arms to spread out some.

Cons:

• The rowing action is not smooth enough
• It does not feel like you’re rowing on water
• Not suitable for professional-level intense workouts
• Oil from the pistons might leak out when the continuous friction overheats the fluid in the piston.
• Needs to be maintained regularly, which can add to the cost
• The compact size is not suitable for larger individuals

| Magnetic Resistance

Since there is no friction in the magnetic systems, there is no noise. These rowers are quiet. They offer a smooth rowing motion with adjustable resistance.

Sometimes the resistance cannot reach as high as an air or water rowing machine. However, when you row slowly, the resistance does increase. Magnetic rowing machines are practically maintenance-free, and they are tough and durable.

Pros:

• Very quiet, almost soundless
• Resistance levels are adjustable
• Low maintenance
• Smaller footprint when compared to air or water rowing machines

Cons:

• They don’t simulate rowing on water
• Resistance is not as high as what water or air rowers can provide you

| Water Resistance

Water rowing machines provide a realistic simulation of what rowing on the water feels like. Like air resistance, the resistance increases when the user rows more intensely.

The paddles in the water reservoir move through the water and make a lot of water noise. If you like the sound of water outdoors, it can be pretty soothing. Compared to the other rowers, water rowers are the most expensive.

Pros:

• Relatively quiet
• Smooth rowing action. Resistance is consistent throughout the rowing motion.
• Low maintenance
• The flywheel blades pushing the water in the tank make a soothing sound for some people.
• Good simulation of rowing on water

Cons:

• Large footprint
• Costly. Averages over $600
• The water tank makes the unit heavy

4. Read Reviews On Rowing Machines

If you have read the above, you probably have a good idea of what type of rowing machine is right for you. You have some idea of what you can afford and what type of resistance you prefer. At this point, you can start reading reviews from people who purchased a rowing machine. As you’re reading, take notes on the details of the device you like.

• What is the quality and material of the rowing machine?
• What data performs monitor record? Any special features?
• Are the seat, handles, and footrests comfortable?
• What kind of noise does it make during operation?
• How efficiently does it store away?
• What are the opinions of other machine owners?

5. What To Look For When Buying Rowing Machines

| How Noisy Is It?

If you share a space with someone, like an apartment, and put a rowing machine in that space, you must be mindful of the machines’ noise. Otherwise, you will annoy the other person.

Usually, rowing machines that use a water-based resistance system make less noise than rowers that use a fan for resistance adjustment. Reviewers say that the WaterRower, which uses water, is quieter than the Concept2, which uses a fan.

| How Easy Is It To Maintain?

Any time you want to get a large piece of equipment, you want it to be low maintenance. Equipment made from components that you can detach is easier to maintain because if one part malfunctions, you just have to fix or replace that one part.

Equipment with a more complicated build, like something with a fan and chain, will likely need to be repaired by a professional if the machine is not operating correctly.

You have to change the water every once in water rowers and clean out the reservoir. If you do not do this, you will give mold and algae a chance to grow inside the tank. A rowing machine with a fan will not need that type of maintenance.

| How Big Is It and How Easy Is It To Store?

When using the rowing machine, it can occupy a big part of your floor. When you do not need to use it, you should be able to store it away conveniently and out of the way. If a user can fold up a machine or he can store it vertically, that is a big plus.

| Any Special Features?

The features described above are the basics that you should evaluate. In addition to that, you should consider these special features in your evaluation:

| Comfortable Seating

When using a rower, you will be sitting on the seat most of the time for the workout duration. Therefore, you need to be sure that the seat fits you and that you are comfortable sitting on it. If you have to move your body around to get comfortable, that can affect the focus of your workout.

Not only that, but because you are uncomfortable, you will not look forward to using your machine. You also need the seat to be at the proper height from the floor. If the device sits too low on the floor, you will have difficulty getting on and off the machine.

| Foot Straps That Adjust

When you sit down on your rower, you place your feet on two-foot pads and then strap your feet to them. So, you have to make sure that you can adjust the straps to secure your feet on the pads properly. That is particularly important if you have feet that are not average in size. If your feet are smaller or bigger than average, pay attention to the foot straps.

| Types of Resistance

Resistance to rowing machines is available in several ways. Usually, a resistance created by air or water gives you the widest range in resistance levels, and reviewers like the smooth experience. Some rowers automatically create more resistance as you row faster and harder, which is not adjustable.

Other types allow you to preset the resistance level you want to work out, which you can change during your workout. If you have specific goals, being able to set the resistance at your preferred level is a benefit.

| The Display On the Dashboard

The dashboard lets you see stats that relate to your performance. They can have an ergometer that measures how much energy you burned off. Some dashboards only display the basics stats, while other advanced rowing machines have more metrics in tracking your performance.

Those might be more appropriate for serious athletes who are working out to compete or if they are focused on achieving a particular goal. For someone new to rowing, a dashboard that is easy to read and displays helpful, basic information is usually sufficient.

| Optional Add-Ons

As workout equipment gets more sophisticated in meeting the expectations of the high-tech, digital consumer, more features are added like larger monitors or screens. Some machines feature full-size screens so you can stream your workouts and watch as you row.

These are optional features that you can add if you want to enhance your rowing workout experience. So, before you settle on a machine, check with the manufacturer if they off optional add-ons that you like.

| Adjustable Built-In Screens

Many rowing machine models come with a large screen on which you can stream workouts and follow along. That is a great extra feature, but make sure that the rower allows you to adjust the screen’s height to position it at a most comfortable level for you.

The last thing you want to do is strain your neck by staring at the screen in an uncomfortable position, and adjusting it to your eye level is the best because it keeps your neck neutral. If you have to look down toward your feet, you will pressure your neck.

| Smart features

Sometimes advanced smart features can make your workout more enjoyable. Things like streaming and Bluetooth and capabilities, pre-programmed workouts, Wi-Fi enabled, the ability to sync with a heart rate monitor, or health apps can add to the workout experience.

| Machines That Simulate Rowing On Water

If you want a machine that helps your performance in rowing on water, you need a device to simulate that experience. You need a rowing machine that requires you to use the same rowing motion that you would use on water, giving you the same type of resistance. A lot of professional rowers choose machines that use air and water resistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is the Spacing of the Pedals Crucial?

When rowing, you are connected to the machine in three places, the oars, the foot pedals, and the seat. The foot stretchers are particularly important because you use this part to push while rowing.

When you are rowing, you want to be able to extend your legs straight out and place them parallel from your hips to your feet. If you are an average-sized person and have joint problems, use a narrow position.

However, if your stature is bigger and you have around the middle, when you row out, you have to splay your knees to the sides to accommodate your belly, and this can cause your knees to hurt.

If you want to correct this problem, you will have to purchase another foot straps to attach to the rower. Consider a product called flex foot.

What If I Have A Pain In Lower Back While Rowing?

If you have this problem, it can be easy for you to use this as an excuse for not exercising on the rower. If rowing hurts your back, consider the height of the seat. The average seat height from the ground is around 14 inches. If the seat was higher, you could get on and off it easier.

A model can lift the seat to the height of an office chair, around 20″ from the floor.

However, if you are still young and move around a lot, the seat height is probably not an issue for you.

Do you have to move your machine after you are done with your workout? The average weight of a rowing machine is about 100 pounds, and it is not easy to carry. If you plan to move it around, find a model with wheels attached.

Do All Foldable Machines Suitable for Small Rooms?

Not really. The seat and rail heights will impact the size. Because of this, sometimes the machine takes up more room when it is folded. An example of a rower can unfold to a footprint measuring 19.3 inches by 12.6 inches, which is smaller when compared to other types.

In addition, rails that users can fold make strange sounds. The joints probably need lubricating regularly to minimize the creaking and squeaking noises when you are working out on the machine. So, these require more maintenance than other types.

Features to think about: These features are essential and can affect how you feel about your rowing experience.

Should I Choose Rower With Seat That Glides?

The seat is where you place most of your weight. So, it is an essential part of the machine to evaluate and more important than you think. Most devices have a seat that glides. That allows you to get a workout for your entire body, and it can simulate the rowing motion of someone in a race.

The lower-end machines, like the hydraulics, have a fixed seat. So, you might get a good workout on your cardio, but your legs are stationary, so you do not get any exercise. In essence, rowers with a gliding seat have an advantage.

What Seat Rail Is Better, Inclined or Horizontal?

Some rowing machines are positioned at an incline and designed to give your leg muscles a better workout and make the training more challenging overall.

However, there is evidence that this incline does not give you an ideal rowing motion, and it might even make you adopt bad rowing techniques. A recommendation is a machine with a horizontal seat rail, mainly if you are a novice in rowing.

What Footplates to Choose, Fixed or Pivot?

Foot-fixed footplates don’t move with the user, and the user has to adjust them with heel clips. Footplates that can pivot are not locked in one position, which allows your feet to adjust to the motion of your body during your row. The pivoting footplates are more comfortable for people whose ankles are not very flexible.

However, some users find the moving footplates unsteady and would instead use a rowing machine with fixed footplates to give their feet more solid support. The footplates are positioned and fixed at the ideal angle based on what the manufacturers found in their research.

However, keep in mind that rowing machines have flaws in their design, so the footplates are not placed in the best spot. It might cause a new rower to develop bad forms in rowing.

In Summary

If you have read this guide, you should now have a better idea of how to choose a suitable rowing machine for your needs. There are still other aspects to consider before you make your final selection, and these aspects will help you gain more satisfaction in your rowing workout in the long term.

A rowing machine is a big purchase, and it can be challenging. Hopefully, after reading our guide it is easier for you to find the perfect rower. Two main questions you should ask yourself are:

1. How much can you afford?
2. What kind of resistance do you like?

When you determine what resistance method you prefer and how much money you can spend, you can eliminate a lot of rowing machines that don’t fit your preference and save yourself some time. To help you further, here is a list of characteristics and the corresponding resistance type that is recommended for each:

– If you have a specific price range in mind, you only have a couple of options. For instance, for budgets below $500, the best one for you would be a hydraulic and magnetic power machine.

– If you want a rowing experience that feels like you are rowing on a kayak, then a machine that uses air or water resistance would be appropriate. Air and water provide dynamic resistance as you row harder.

– How big is your workout space? Rowing machines that use hydraulics have a smaller footprint, which is good for those with minimal space for working out. The average length is similar to that of a loveseat.

If you want to row to lose weight or for an efficient cardio and resistance training protocol, a machine for any type of resistance can work.