More and more people are getting health conscious these days. Part of getting healthy is realizing that losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is not just about dieting; exercise is extremely important as well.
Rowing machines are swiftly becoming a favored home exercise equipment to use because it is one of the few machines out there that works out your entire body. You will not have to own another piece of equipment, as a rowing machines work your legs, arms, back, and abs.
If you are ready to take that step toward a full body workout, we have rowing machine reviews for top models and this guide will show how to select the best rowing machine for your home or gym.
These are some of the best rowing machines on the market today
Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower
Velocity Exercise Magnetic machine is magnetic-based, which means it is quiet and provides an intense, smooth workout. The resistance comes from the electromagnetic system, guaranteeing an effective and safe workout. The resistance is also adjustable based on your ability level. It has an attachable heart rate monitor, as well as an LCD-display screen which monitors your time, count, strokes per minute, distance, calories, watt, and pulse. It also has great construction, made from high quality aluminum in the body and a polyurethane seat. If you prefer to stick to a program, there are 6 pre-sets that come standard for a structured exercise. There is also a manual option. And did you think a magnetic rower means giving up space? Unlike many magnetic rowers out these, the Velocity brand has a folding feature. It also has wheels that allow for easy transportation. Never be forced to leave your high-quality machine out for the world to see again. However, this machine does only have a 275 pound weight capacity, so for those who are trying to lose serious weight, this is not going to be your best option. You also have to assemble the parts yourself, so make sure you have your tools handy for this convenient and portable magnetic rower.
LifeSpan Fitness RW1000 Rowing Machine
One of the best features of the LifeSpan Fitness RW1000 is that it is very quiet. For anyone who has ever owned a rowing machine before, the blessings of one that is actually virtually silent is a godsend. Perfect for those with babies or roommates! Another great feature is that this machine is very compact. Even if you choose not to fold and put away your rower every time, the seat and handles fold down so it is not so intrusive in the room. It is also extremely easy to assemble: just attach the seat and pop in the battery for your screen display. The display shows you your distance, calories burned, time, strokes, and strokes per minute. LifeSpan also offers amazing warrantees, such as a five year frame warrantee and a two year parts warrantee. It is also very lightweight! Consider the fact that it is lightweight a double-edged sword, however. Easy to assemble and move around, but this feature may not be for those who like to go hard and fast, as you may damage the rower.
ProRower H2O RX-750 Home Series Rowing Machine
ProRower H2O RX-750 Home Series Rowing machine features water resistance, which mimics the feel of actual rowing. The drag of the water causes the resistance. It is the closest you can come to rowing without actually leaving your home. Also great for those who want to start rowing as a sport, but would like to train up a bit first. The water resistance is perfect for those who prefer a more natural means of working out, as all you need is a full tank. No plugs and no electronic machinery that can break or corrupt your workout. This particular rower features adjustable foot pedals so all members of your household can enjoy this engaging workout. Better yet, the company offers a lifetime warrantee on the frame, so you can go hard and fast on this machine all you want. One thing to keep in mind is that people of all levels can use this machine to their benefit, because the resistance of the machine depends on how hard or soft you choose to row. Yet while some find the sound of the water to be calming, some find it to be too distracting or noisy for their particular environment.
Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine
The Stamina Body Trac Glider utilizes a unique gas-shock resistance with twelve different levels of resistance. This is a great machine to buy if you are a beginner, because with so many different levels, you will not ever be in a position where your level is a little too easy or a little too hard. You can adjust your resistance to perfectly match your ability. And unlike many machines, this rower allows you to have a real rowing motion (rather than simply pulling on a strap or bar). That means your arms are going to get just as much of a workout as your legs, abs, and back. This is also a great machine if you don’t like your machine to be left out. When folded, this rower weighs a mere 35 pounds. Easy to cart and carry around anywhere you need it to go. It also can fold up small enough to fit in a closet. For the cost, it’s one of the most amazing rowers on the market. However, make sure you wear the proper shoes for this machine, because the foot straps are not as secure as with some other brands.
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine
This brand has consistently been trusted by consumers for its durable build and quality construction. If you want a rower that is also an investment, you absolutely need to consider the quality of the machine.Concept2 Model D Indoor rower is one of the best you can get on the market for the price. Additionally, the manufacturer offers a five year warrantee on the frame. As far as the actual experience, this rower provides a smooth ride. It features a flywheel and dampener system, which quiets your workout while allowing you to adjust the airflow to the flywheel. You can change how each stroke feels to suit your preferences and comfort level. It’s also great for people who are big and tall. It has a weight capacity of up to 500 pounds, which is better than most rowers you’ll find on the market. The negatives to this machine are due to its durability and functionality. There is very little option for storage in this machine, simply because it is sturdy. It does break apart into two pieces if you ever have to move. It is also one of the more expensive machines, so consider your budget when making this investment.
Why Should You Own One?
We’ve all seen it: you walk into someone’s basement or den and there sits an unused treadmill. Maybe the only use it’s gotten in years is hanging up damp clothes. Maybe you even have a dusty machine in your home as well. No one blames you – treadmills are boring! One of the best things about a rowing machine is it’s anything but boring. During your workout, you are engaging your whole body. There is nothing boring about this highly effective cardio workout. And if it sounds like rowing is out of your league, have no fear. This is a low-impact workout that yields high results. Couple these with a good pair of adjustable dumbbells and you have you own home gym. If you take the time to understand the proper form, rowing machine workouts can be a virtually painless way of removing that unwanted fat and getting long, lean muscle. Additionally, this equipment is perfect for people who are low on free time. In one session, you can get in your cardio as well as strength training. No extra time needed for those who want to quickly burn calories and get those sexy tones muscles.
Types of Rowing Machines
There are four distinct types of rowing machines, and each has its benefits, depending on your lifestyle and needs. In our rowing machine reviews we will hep you select the ones that are best for you.
Air Resistance
These types of machines use a fan blade that creates a rush of air when the user pulls on the fan blade. This type of resistance is great for beginners because it will allow you to become familiar with the machine as you use it more. It is considered one of the less intense types of resistance, which is a pro for those who want the benefit of this type of workout but fear a risk of injury. The best part of this type of machine is that as you progress in your workout, you can also make the machine progress with you. Even talented athletes can make this machine challenging. It all depends on how vigorous you are with your strokes. Another benefit is that the rush of air has a cooling effect, which is always nice to have on those sweatier days. However, the fan can be noisy. Consider your environment and whether or not you can handle the noise created by your workout.
Hydraulic Resistance
Also called piston resistance, this type of machine is geared more towards the individuals who have both a smaller budget and smaller storage space. You will be able to find good quality hydraulic resistance machines on the market for much cheaper than other types of rowers. They also generally have a feature that allows them to be folded or tucked away. Great for those who don’t like to leave their workout gear in places where guests might get a little nosy. No worries, you’ll definitely get your sweat on with this machine despite its size. Better yet, the resistance easily can be adjusted. However, the range of motion is more limited in these machines. You will still get a fantastic workout, but keep in mind that you will not get the full extension that you may get with other types of rowers.
Water Resistance
Water rowers are typically consider to be the best rowing machine. Professional athletes tend to enjoy this option more, because it will give you the most accurate feeling of rowing with an indoor machine. This type of rower is most commonly used by people who actually row as a sport, or for people who would like to eventually transition into the sport but would like to train first. It actually uses water as its resistance tool, so you get an authentic rowing experience. The drag of the water is what creates the resistance and what makes this machine such an effective tool. The water is in an enclosed tank so that it never touches the user. But the sound of the waves is often found to be soothing and a great motivator to go faster and harder. If you have the space, this is a great option. Because the tank is full and structured to the machine, this particular type of rower is heavy and bulky. It also is typically the most expensive type of machine.
Magnetic Resistance
This type of machine is for those who are looking for the most intense workout. It works by utilizing a system of electromagnets to brake and cause resistance. The user has to work harder than they would with other models to keep a good momentum. The stokes are very smooth, so while you may have to work harder with this type, there is also less injury risk because the entire range of motion is very even. You can also adjust your resistance level, so beginners can enjoy this machine without fear that it is beyond their abilities. Just increase the level as you get stronger and stronger. Another benefit is that this machine measures energy output and calories burned much more accurately than its other siblings. It is also virtually silent. Like the water resistance machine, this type of rower is also generally very expensive. It is also bigger and more stationary, so make sure you have space to commit to this machine.
How to Select the Best Rowing Machine for Your Lifestyle
Now that you know the different types, consider your own lifestyle. Do you have the space to commit to a bulkier machine such as one of these top weight bench ? Or would you prefer something more compact? What is the best rowing machine for home? For those in an apartment or who prefer not to leave equipment out, a Hydraulic Resistance machine is probably best indoor rowing machine. How about your commitment level? Is this something you want to do multiple days a week or even eventually join a rowing team? Water or Magnetic Resistance machines are generally the ones that rowing enthusiasts prefer. Is noise level something you have to consider? How about expense? Basically, buying any piece of exercise equipment is a commitment that requires a lot of thought about your own lifestyle.
But beyond just your lifestyle, there are other factors to consider including the reputation of the company and quality of machine. Even if you are looking for something that will accommodate a smaller budget, you want to make sure that you are purchasing a quality piece of machinery. Rowing machines can be made with anything from wood to metal. Wood is best for water resistance, but if you go with another type, go with something that is at least 85% metal.
There are also some more detailed factors. Pay attention to weight capacity of the model you’re considering. Also look for measurements indicating how long the machine is or how much space there is in front of the seat. You want to make sure that you will have plenty of room to get a full, comfortable extension of both the arms and legs. Look for a seat that has padding, but is not slippery. A good workout requires a sturdy seat. For motivation, look for a model that calculates calories burned, energy used, pace, or distance. Nothing will make you want to keep going like seeing the first 500 calories burned or the first mile you’ve rowed. Last but not least, never purchase a model that does not have a way to change the resistance level. No matter which type of machine you ultimately buy, best indoor rowers are an investment. They are a great piece of equipment that, when used correctly, will yield amazing results for your body. Your needs will change and grow, and you must make sure you have a machine that will accommodate that. Consider all of these factors, as well as the type of machine you think would fit you best, and you are on your way to owning a fantastic home fitness equipment.
What Now?
Now you know all the key aspects to buying your very own rowing machine. You know what each type means, and the pros and cons to each one. Find one that will meet your workout and lifestyle needs, and make sure your investment is made with quality in mind. If you are ready to not only lose weight, but become stronger in general, go online and find a rowing machine that will get you there!