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.
When it comes to purchasing a rowing machine, there are a lot of factors to consider. Air resistance or magnetic resistance? Water resistance or hydraulic resistance? Hi-tech features or just the basics? Built-in workouts or flying, er, rowing solo? Fear not, dear reader, we are here to answer all of your rowing-related questions and steer you in the right direction. Read more…
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IMAGE: NordicTrack
BEST OVERALL
NordicTrack RW600 Rowing Machine
NordicTrack provides a high-quality rower that utilizes air and magnetic resistance and offers tons of added features.
- Resistance Type: Magnetic and air
- Assembled Dimensions: 86.5" L x 22.0" W x 42.8" H
- Assembled Weight: 90 lbs
- Maximum User Capacity: 250 lbs
IMAGE: Hydrow
BEST SPLURGE
Hydrow rower
Serious athletes who love switching up their routine and being part of a community will love the Hydrow.
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Assembled Dimensions: 86″ L x 25″ W x 47″ H
- Assembled Weight: 145 lbs
- Maximum User Capacity: 350 lbs
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST BUDGET BUY
Stamina magnetic rowing machine 1110
This magnetic rower is great for small spaces and small budgets alike.
- Assembled Dimensions: 60’’ L x 22’’ W x 27’’ H
- Assembled Weight: 45 lbs
- Maximum User Capacity: 250 lbs
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
IMAGE: Dick's Sporting Goods
BEST WATER ROWER
XTERRA ERG650W water rowing machine
This is a sleek and durable rower for anyone looking to recreate that “on the water” sensation.
- Resistance Type: Water
- Assembled Dimensions: 79.5" L x 20.7” W x 33.9" H
- Assembled Weight: 76 lbs
- Maximum User Capacity: 350 lbs
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
Sunny Health & Fitness magnetic rowing machine
This mid-range rower combines great features with a good price.
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Assembled Dimensions: 78" L x 19.1" W x 23.2" H
- Assembled Weight: 60.9 lbs
- Maximum User Capacity: 250 lbs
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST FOR TALL PEOPLE
Circuit Fitness foldable magnetic rowing machine
This extra-long rowing machine has plenty of room to stretch your legs.
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Assembled Dimensions: 91" L x 20.5" W x 31.5" H
- Assembled Weight: 90 lbs
- Maximum User Capacity: 300 lbs
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST FOR SMALL SPACES
Sunny Health & Fitness full motion rowing machine
With a straightforward and compact design, this rower takes up minimal space.
- Resistance Type: Hydraulic
- Assembled Dimensions: 52.2" L x 28.7" W x 11.8" H
- Assembled Weight: 35.8 lbs
- Maximum User Capacity: 350 lbs