Whether you’re looking to add a piece of equipment to your home gym or are in search of a single machine that will provide a full-body workout without taking up too much space, a rower is a solid choice. Rowing has long been favored by people looking for a full-body workout that’s cardio-heavy yet low impact. This means that you’re not putting large amounts of stress on your joints, giving you less of a chance of sustaining an injury. This makes rowing a safe and effective workout for people of all ages, sizes, and abilities.
This Black Friday, fitness equipment (rowers included) is expected to be in-demand — which means you'll want to know exactly what to buy before the big sales hit. Considering the current global supply chain issues, its best to buy a rowing machine early if it's on your holiday wishlist (or you might end up with a Peloton-esque multi-week delivery time).
Read on for answers to all your rowing-related questions and to take a peek at the best models available online.
So what exactly is a rowing machine?
Simply put, a rowing machine mimics the effects of rowing on the water. This is achieved by using different types of resistance.
When it comes to rower resistance, there are four types to consider: air, magnetic, water, and hydraulic. While each type of rower exercises the same muscle groups, there are a few major differences to consider before making a purchase.
Air resistance rowing machines
With an air resistance rower, the machine uses a flywheel to generate air resistance as you pull your body. So the harder and faster you pull, the harder the resistance or “drag” becomes. This creates a workout that mimics the sensation of rowing on the open water. Air rowers are favored by Olympians and professional athletes alike. So if you’re looking to go pro or at least train like one, an air rower is your best bet.
Magnetic resistance rowing machines
With a magnetic rower, the user sets the desired resistance by moving a magnet closer or farther away from the flywheel. Air resistance rowers tend to be louder than magnetic resistance rowers, so if you live with others or find yourself easily distracted, a magnetic resistance rower may be a better fit.
Water resistance rowing machines
Water rowing machines use water resistance to create what some say is the smoothest stroke. These rowers are typically made of wood and feature a large water tank at the front of the machine. There are no resistance settings on water rowers, meaning that in order to feel more resistance, you have to row faster. The level of water in the tank is controlled by the user and represents the weight of the boat and its captain. If you want a heavier boat, you add more water to the tank. If you want a lighter boat, you add less water to the tank. Across the board, water rowers have the most basic type of monitors. No live workout classes or Olympic champion instructors to keep you motivated here. But perhaps you’re more of a meditative type who prefers the lapping of the water to lull you into a methodical rowing trance. If that's you, go the water route.
Hydraulic resistance rowing machines
The hydraulic resistance rowing machine is the most basic of rowers. Hydraulic rowers get their name from the very system that makes them run: a hydraulic cylinder. These machines rely on a cylinder filled with oil or air that a piston runs through. Resistance is created when the piston, which has an attachment connecting it to the arms of the rowers, moves in and out of the cylinder as you row. The great thing about hydraulic rowers is that they’re usually on the cheaper end of the spectrum. They also tend to be smaller machines, typically weighing no more than 60 pounds with a length of no more than 5 feet.
If you’re a bigger person, a hydraulic rower won’t allow you to fully extend. However, hydraulic rowers offer more flexibility when it comes to the arms of the machine. So if giving your arms range of motion is important to you, a hydraulic machine may be your best bet.
What type of monitor do I need?
The type of monitor you’ll need depends on the type of workout you want. Do you want to be rolling on the virtual river with a community of athletes? Do you like guidance from a fitness instructor? Or are you more of a lone rower who prefers a solitary session sans technology?
The monitors on magnetic rowers typically offer more options than those on air rowers. Similar to a treadmill or an elliptical, you can choose from a variety of preset workouts. This is a great feature for anyone who doesn’t want to think too hard about their workout.
Regardless of the type of machine you chose, even the most basic monitor will include preset HIIT (high-intensity interval training) workouts that will have you engaging not only the muscles in your arms but in your legs, back, and core too. They'll also show you a set of stats like heart rate, strokes, and distance.
Can you get in shape just by rowing?
Rowing uses almost every muscle in your body and can seriously kick up your heart rate, meaning you'll get a total body workout every time you hop on the rowing machine. Row for 30 minutes a day and you'll definitely start to see changes in your body with areas looking more toned and firm.
A rowing workout targets your arms, legs, back, and core. It's an all-in-one type of workout machine that can integrate into any fitness routine. Just consult YouTube first to make sure you've got the proper form if you're a newbie — your workout won't do much for you if you aren't doing it correctly.
But which rowing machine is the best?
As with any major equipment purchasing decision, there are several factors to take into consideration. Thankfully, there are tons of rowing machines out there at a variety of price points and sizes. We’ve done most of the work for you (you can thank us later), so we can get you off the computer and onto your rower in no time. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your workout up a notch, we’ve compiled this list of the top rowers on the market based on both user and expert reviews.
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