Looking to work those muscles out on a regular basis without hitting the gym? How about lose a few pounds or 
increase stamina? Or, are you one of those super busy people who can’t find time for a proper gym session? Whatever be the case, a home rowing machine offers you an excellent alternative and is a super beneficial investment.
A conventional exercise regimen includes working out the upper body, lower body and core muscles. It is what theytechnically call as a full-body workout. However, there are very few exercises that offer a full-body workout, even fewer machines. While treadmill or stationery bikes can be used as a home workout machine, both of them target only the lower body while keeping the upper body idle. A home rowing machine can be an excellent solution for anyone, especially the busy office-goers with a very hectic work schedule. Check out our complete guide about the best treadmills under 1000.
Home rowing machines come in different types and variations. Choosing the model that suits your need and comfort can be a daunting task. The 15 different models reviewed here, with unbiased analysis and honest recommendations will help you choose the most-suited model. We have also written a complete guide about the best folding treadmills.
What are the benefits of a home rowing machine?
Full-body workout
When you exercise using a rowing machine, the whole body and several different muscles are being utilized. The
upper body workout includes exercising shoulders, biceps, upper back and lower back. In addition to that, rowing machine also offers a nice workout to the abs, thus strengthening the core. This will prevent back pain and also fix posture issues. While rowing, your grip on the handle needs to be firm and this will eventually develop stronger wrists and hands.
Arguably, the lower-body is most benefitted from rowing machine workout. In fact, many rowing enthusiasts view rowing mainly as a lower-body workout. While exercising on a rowing machine, some of the main muscles involved are the upper front of the thighs known as quads, calves, and glutes. It is a known fact that strong legs take the overall physique to another dimension. Another scientifically proven fact is that lower body workouts burn calories faster. Performing resistance training on a rowing machine is also a great way to develop balance and flexibility.
Effective cardio exercise
Irrespective of the age, gender or any other factors, cardiovascular health is of paramount significance. Aerobic exercises are the best way to boost overall health, strengthen the immune system and accelerate weight loss. A rowing machine can be the ideal way to raise your heart rate in a controlled manner as it uses many major muscles at a single time. It is also easy to adjust the resistance level to your needs and stamina in order toavoid being overworked or not fluxing the muscles enough.
Weight loss
Consistent workout on rowing machine can help to burn calories, tone the muscles, and develop better endurance. On an average, an hour of rowing machine workout burns 600 calories. That’s a lot more effective than a lot of other home machines. The fact that, unlike stationery bikes and similar machines, rowing offers a full-body workout. If combined with healthy lifestyle, and a balanced & nutritious diet, rowing machines can provide excellent weight loss
results.
Increased stamina
It might be difficult to operate a rowing machine initially if you are someone who leads a sedentary lifestyle. But one of the major benefits of rowing machine is the ability to control the resistance level to the user needs and physical strength. Starting slow and making steady progress can ensure increased stamina and endurance. This means, increased level of energy to perform daily functions.
What are the various types of home rowing machine?
There are four distinct types of indoor rowers based on the type of resistance used. They are Hydraulic Rowers, Flywheel Rowers, Magnetic Resistance Indoor Rowers, and The WaterRower.
Hydraulic Rowing Machine
If space or budget is a major concern, then hydraulic rower is the best suited option. These are low-cost and compact home rowing machines that receive the tension from the fluid or air compressed with a cylinder. But unlike other three rower types, hydraulic rowers don’t allow the user to pull in a straight line. One of its major drawbacks is the inability to sync the arm and leg movements and perform the natural rowing motion.
Flywheel Rowing Machine
Flywheel rowing machines operate on the resistance provided through the pulling motion. It spins the flywheel which is connected to fan blades and uses the wind for resistance. Air rowing machines offer a natural and smooth 
flow and resistance when compared to hydraulic machines.
Magnetic Resistance Indoor Rowers
Magnetic rowing machines operate on the same principle as air rowing machines. The only difference being, instead of air, it uses magnetic brake system to receive the resistance. Some magnetic rowers use a combination of magnetic and air resistance. The main advantages are noiseless functioning and smooth flow.
The Water Rower
This is the best choice for people who enjoy outdoor rowing. The water rower uses a patented flywheel technique that replicates the effect of a boat moving through water. The water rower receives its resistance from water. When the user pulls the handle, the paddles in the tank spin to move the water and create the resistance.
Key features to look out for in a high-quality home rowing machine
Before purchasing a rower, it is necessary to consider few important factors. Some of them are associated with the machine while some others are associated with the user. Including all these factors in your purchase decision can help to buy the best product that are affordable, durable, comfortable and efficient.
Space
Space is an important aspect to consider as rowing machines come in various sizes. Hydraulic machines are the smallest out all the four categories and the best option to choose if there are space constraints. However, if you are going to be an active user, then it is recommended to purchase any high-end machine with better resistance. A few machines can be disassembled quickly and can be useful in tiny spaces.
User
Rowers vary in comfort depending on the user’s physique. For instance, a tall individual will need a rower with a long seat rail to accommodate the legs comfortably. For a short user, a short seat rail will provide more comfort. A physically strong user will need a high resistance rower but a beginner will need to start with a comparative low resistance machine.
Construction
The build and the construction of the machine play a crucial role in determining the level of comfort and efficiency. The design should be ergonomic with instant setup buttons, easily adjustable seats, regulated resistance and durability.
Resistance
Rowers are available with three major types of resistance – air, water and magnetic. Air rowers are powered by a rotating fan and generate resistance through flywheels with a fair amount of noise as byproduct. Magnetic rowers create resistance through magnetic brake systems and operate without noise. Water rowers are designed in a way to imitate the dynamics a boat creates in water. These kind of rowers tend to be smaller in size thus easy to store.
Top 15 Best Rowing Machines in 2022 – Chart
1. Concept2 Model DIndoor Rower Rowing Machine Black or Gray (Top Pick)
If you are looking for a high-end rowing machine that is smooth, quiet and easy to store, then Concept2 Model D is
the best choice. It is an advanced rowing machine that offers a full-body workout and an effective cardiovascular workout. Model D is developed by Concept2, a highly reputed fitness equipment manufacturing company, selling a wide array of rowing machines to suit the diverse needs and requirements of users.
Build
This high-end rowing machine has an overall length of 96 inches (244cm), width of 24 inches (61cm) and a seat height of 14 inches (36cm). The monorail length is 54 inches (137 cm) that fits inseams up to 38”. The chain is made of steel, plated with nickel. The leg support includes aluminum-based front legs and steel-based rear legs. A 10-degree bend is given to the handle to accommodate natural hand and arm position. Maximum user weight supported is about 500 lbs. (227kg).
The machine comes with substantial durabilityand is able to withstand heavy training every day, for many years. This indoor rowing machine comes with a 2-year limited warranty and is available in black and light grey colors.
Features
There are many features that set concept2 model D apart from other home rowing machines. One of them is the Performance Monitor 5 (PM5). The PM5 monitor provides the most accurate data and is extremely simple and user-friendly. It also comes with ergonomic buttons that can be operated easily to set up the machine, backlight to increase visibility, and a flexible monitor arm to adjust the monitor as per your need. It is compatible with USB flash drives, which enables wireless monitoring your heart rate and backup of workout data for tracking and further analysis.
Another important feature is the flywheel and the damper. The spiral damper facilitates controlled airflow to the flywheel which helps to alter the strokes to suit your preferred resistance and exertion. The flywheel is designed in such a manner as to maximize efficiency and minimize the noise.
Storage is another great aspect of Model D, with a quick release framelock mechanism. This enables easy separation of the machine into two pieces. The front caster wheels compliment this design by allowing you to simply roll the machine into any position. The assembly and disassembly of the machine is quite simple and can be done by anyone without assistance.
Pros:
- Great build
- Performance monitor 5 (PM5)
- Full-range of exercise; both cardio and strength training
Cons:
- A slightly higher price
2. WaterRower Club Rowing Machine in Ash Wood with S4 Monitor
If you are looking for a water rower that offers outdoor rowing experience at the comfort of your home, then this is 
probably the best option to choose. The WaterRower club rowing machine is a perfect blend of design and comfort. It is a handcrafted rowing machine from solid Ash wood, with water flywheel that is meticulously placed inside the attached water tank to stimulate actual rowing experience. This flywheel, combined with water in the tank, will provide the resistance. Manufactured by WaterRower, an American fitness brand, this model is one of the top performers in the fitness market. It comes with a warranty of one year on the frame and components. However, by filling out a registration form, you can extend the warranty of the frame to 5 years and that of components to three years.
Build
The handcrafted rowing machine is built with Ash wood due to its excellent engineering properties. The wood absorbs vibration and sound, making it highly suitable for high-traffic areas such as gyms. The wood is highly durable and stable and is stained with rose and black color for aesthetic appeal. The machine weighs 117 pounds (53kgs), including the water weight, with assembled dimensions of 20 inches (50.8 cm) of height, 22.25 inches (56.52 cm) of width and 82.25 in (208.9 cm) of length. It also comes with a whopping 1000 lbs(454 kg) of maximum user weight.
Features
One of the factors that distinguishes this water rower from others is the patented water flywheel. It replicates the real water rowing experience to the fullest, with controlled strokes and resistance. The water tank is polycarbonate, making it super durable. Together, the flywheel and water tank will offer the user a highly realistic water rowing experience.
The rower features an S4 performance monitor that compliments the design and enhances the performance. It displays workout data such as heart rate, stroke rate, distance and duration of the workout. User-friendly buttons empower the user with instant start and quick setup of the machine.
Pros:
- Quick Assembly and high-quality design
- Easy to use
- Durability
Cons:
- A fair amount of noise
- Backlight issues with monitor
3. Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5
When it comes to design and performance, Concept2 didn’t hold back on this model. The Concept2 Model E Indoor
rowing machine is an aesthetically pleasing machine with sleek design, higher seat and a PM5 monitor. This model is an upgraded version of Concept2’s star performer, Model D and is designed for heavy use in high-traffic areas. But the sleek design also makes it a suitable home workout machine. The maximum user weight supported is 500 lb (227 kg). This model is backed by a 2-year warranty for the components and a 5-year warranty on the frame. It is available in light gray and black colors.
Build
The Model E comes with an overall length of 96 inches (244 cm), width of 24 inches (61 cm) and a seat height of 20 inches (51 cm). The monorail features a length of 54 inches (137 cm) and a nickel-plated chain, which doesn’t need frequent oiling. The machine uses a steel frame with air as its resistance. The spiral damper helps to adjust the airflow to the flywheel easily, giving the user perfect control on strokes and resistance. The row handle features a 10-degree bend to provide a natural rowing position and comfort.
Features
One of the main attractions of Model E is that it comes with a higher seat than all other Concept2 models. This will accommodate people with less mobility or knee issues as well. The model comes with a seat height of 20 inches, which provides better footrest and comfort. The footrest is adjustable to fit different leg sizes.
Model E features a backlit performance monitor 5 (PM5) with preset workout programs. It allows user to store and access workout data such as heart rate, distance travelled, total duration of workout and total amount of calories burned. The USB flash drive allows transfer of data to other devices as well.
Easy assembly and storage is another great feature of Model E. It will take a maximum of 20-30 minutes to assemble the machine. The machine can be split into two sections for easy storage.
Pros:
- Higher seat for better comfort and mobility
- Advanced PM5 Monitor
- Better footrest and ergonomic design
Cons:
- Slightly bigger than other models
4. WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine with S4 Monitor
The WaterRowernatural rowing machine is an ideal purchase for people who are looking for a real rowing 
experience. It is a handcrafted rowing machine from solid Ash wood, coated with honey oak color. WaterRower’s natural rowing machine comes with a flywheel connected to the water tank, an S4 monitor and a sleek design that gives a luxurious appearance to the machine. It also includes a warranty of one year on the frame and components. But, by filling out a registration form, you can extend the warranty of the frame to 5 years and that of components to three years.
Build
All the WaterRowermachines feature a patented water flywheel that offers smooth and controlled resistance. The rower machine is handcrafted, built with Ash wood, stained of warm honey oak and is hand finished with Danish oil for aesthetic appeal. The wood absorbs vibration and sound, making it noise free and highly suitable for commercial places as well as home. The machine weighs 117 pounds (53kgs), including the water weight, with assembled dimensions of 21inches (52 cm) of height, 22 inches (56.52 cm) of width and 84 in (208.9 cm) of length. The maximum user weight supported is 1000 lbs.
Features
The machine uses water for resistance and stimulates actual rowing experience in-house. The design consists of two paddles inside the tank which functions to create smooth strokes and regulated resistance. If you are someone who is looking for an actual rowing experience inside your home at an affordable price, this model is the one to choose!
The resistance seems to work out at least 84% of the muscle mass. That’s an impressive rate considering this is a low-impact workout machine. Also the S4 monitor provides a fair amount of data on your past and current workout, with an option to transfer it to external devices. The monitor includes six information and programming windows. It shows your heart rate, workout duration, intensity and calories burned.
Pros:
- Noise free functioning
- Long lasting
- Huge user weight capacity (1000lbs)
Cons:
- Larger size
- Slightly higher price
5. WaterRower Oxbridge Rowing Machine in Cherry with S4 Monitor
Similar to WaterRower’sother rowing machines, the Oxbridge rowing machine model also features components such 
as patented water flywheel along with a spiral damper, connected to a water tank. It is a compact and well-designed machine that will be a beautiful addition to your home or gym. One of the immediate attractions of the Oxbridge is of course, the look. It carries a one year warranty for both the frame and components but can be extended to 5 years and 3 years respectively by filling a registration form.
Build
WaterRower Oxbridge is handcrafted from Cherry wood, stained with Danish oil. Apart from the aesthetic appeal, cherry wood has an amazing structural strength, which makes the rowing machine a durable, high-quality and strong product. The cherry wood also absorbs sound and vibration to improve the machine’s performance and reduce noise. It has got a height of 20 inches, width of 22.25 inches, length of 82.25 inches, and weight of 117 lbs including a full-tank. The tank is of polycarbonate, making it strong and durable. The footrest and handle are ergonomic and very functional. It supports a maximum user weight of 1000 lbs, a number you don’t see very often.
Features
The patented water flywheel is what makes the machine unique and distinguished. The spiral damper connected to the flywheel provides real rowing experience to the users. The technique used is so efficient that it actually offers strokes that you feel while rowing in water. The resistance is also controlled by the user. If you paddle faster, the resistance increases and vice versa.
The S4 monitor comes with many features such as tracking stroke rate, heart rate, duration of workout, AutoStore and AutoPreview options, etc. As per the manufacturer, the assembly is quite easy and should take 20-30 minutes. The machine is shipped in two different boxes as two different parts. Ease of use is another great quality of the model. Because it doesn’t have a lot of movable parts, the maintenance is low and durability is high.
Pros:
- Sleek design and noiseless functioning
- Easy to assemble
- Great durability
Cons:
- The S4 monitor doesn’t come with backlight and lacks in functionality
6. Lifecore R100 Commercial Rowing Machine
The LifeCore R100 Commercial Rowing Machine is a commercial-grade, folding rowing machine that is suitable for
both gyms and home workout. One of the major attractions of this rower is that the resistance is powered by a combination of air and magnetic strike. This unique technology sets this machine apart from the rest of the products in the market. The model comfortably folds up to make storage easy when not in use. It features about 15 preset workout programs to keep you motivated and excited. The dimensions are 92 x 19 x 36 inches (LxWxH) when assembled and 52 x 19 x 67 inches (LxWxH) when folded. The machine weighs about 96 pounds and supports a maximum user weight of 600 pounds. Another pleasing feature of this model is the lifetime warranty that it offers for the frame and 5 years on the components.
Build
The major highlight of this model is the unique resistance model of air and magnetic brake system. It also includes 16 different levels of resistance to choose from, pacer and watts dependent programs, silent drive system and 15 preset workout programs. The adjustable cooling air vent, steel fan/flywheel, aluminum frame with solid steel support and folders for storage increases the built quality. There is a large seat for most comfort and an angled footrest for maximum heel support. Together, this model makes up for an excellent home or commercial rowing machine with superior quality and durability
Features
The air and magnetic resistance with electronic brake system ensures smooth and professional gym-quality exercise at the comfort of your home. This unique resistance system helps to provide smooth rowing with the assistance of air at level 1. But from level 2 onwards, the magnetic system kicks in and provide noise free, high velocity strokes. The machine also has an air vent, directed towards the user to give cooling breeze when you exercise. And the interesting thing is that the air vent is human-powered!
The display offers many workout tracking options along with a special feature of automatically adjusting your workout to keep the heart rate at the pre-defined level.
Pros:
- Excellent monitor
- Air and magnetic resistance
- Easy to store
Cons:
- Heavy-weight
- Difficult to assemble
7. WaterRower Classic Rowing Machine in Black Walnut with S4 Monitor
The first attraction of the WaterRower Classic Rowing Machine is how aesthetically pleasing it is. It is because
WaterRower chose beautiful black walnut to design this model, stained with three coats of Danish oil. This natural wood not only looks pleasing to the eye, but also excels at noise and vibration absorption. The handcrafted model is of high-quality and is highly durable. Like every WaterRower machines, this one is also popular to give real-life rowing experience to the user using the patented water Flywheel technology. The model comes with a three year warranty on the frame and a one-year warranty on other components. Similar toWaterRower’s other models, the warranty can be extended to 5 years and 3 years respectively by filling a registration form. The maximum user weight capacity is an impressive 1000 lbs.
Build
The machine is built on solid walnut wood, coated with Danish oil for durability. The dimensions are 20 inches of height, 22.25 inches of width and 82.25 inches of length. The machine weighs about 66.5 lbswithout water and 103.5 lbs with full-tank water. The water Flywheel ensures smooth rowing experience with realistic strokes. Seats and footrests are designed in a way to offer comfort and stability to the user. Polycarbonate water tank is highly durable and requires low maintenance.
Features
It comes with a Series 4 (S4) performance monitor with many features such as tracking the heart rate, stroke rate per minute, resistance level, workout duration, intensity and more. The resistance is self-regulated, meaning the higher intensity you apply, higher will be the resistance and vice versa.
Easy assembly is another great aspect of this model. It takes just about 15 minutes to assemble the machine and can be done without assistance. The model comes with a detailed manual on how to assemble the parts, which makes it easier. The machine is comparatively easy to use for a water rowing machine. The comfortable heel rest and ergonomically designed handle adds to the comfort of all types of users
Pros:
- Quality and durability
- Stylish and visually appealing design
- Natural rowing experience
Cons:
- Monitor is not backlit, affecting the visibility
- Water splashing noise
8. First Degree Fitness Newport AR Rower Water Rower Exercise Machine
The manufacturer claims to have sought expertise of professional rowers to provide the feel of a real-life water
rowing experience. And it seems to have worked quite brilliantly, as this water rower has become one of the popular machines out in the market. It has a maximum user weight capacity of 330 pounds. The machine comes with a 5-year frame warranty, three years for tank and non-wearing components and a one-year warranty for other parts. It is available in a shiny red color, adding to the aesthetic value.
Build
The model comes with a height of 20.1 inches,width of 20.9 inches, and adepth of 77.8 inches. Constructed from aluminum, the built is stylish and durable. The tank is made of polycarbonate shell and includes a triple-bladed paddle made of stainless steel. The tank has a variable capacity of 9 to 17 liters. The belt is durable, drives smooth, clean, and quiet with no whirring noises. With smooth strokes, high-end design and good workout feedback, this model is one of the best in First Degree Fitness’s horizontal series.
Features
This model features a variable water resistance, which is the specialty of water rowers. It supports smooth stroke and replicate the ambience of splashing water. The resistance level can be changed depending on whether you are a beginner or a professional. There are 4 levels of resistance offered.
The paddles inside the tank makes pleasing water splashing noise but other than that the machine operates noise free. Users can set their comfortable resistance level easily. The storage is also easy as you need tojust flip it vertically to save precious floor space.
The data monitor offers information on workout intensity, duration, calories burned, distance covered, number of strokes per minute etc. If used a chest strap, the monitor can also track heart rate and give you workoutfeedback. The USB port allows you to transfer data or connect it to fitness apps. The footplates are adjustable, making it comfortable for all kinds of people. Also, the cushioned seat offers optimum comfort while working out.
Pros:
- Variable water resistance
- Easy to store
- Excellent warranty
Cons:
- The water tank takes time to respond to a new setting
- Monitor features
9. Sunny Health & Fitness Water Rowing Machine Rower w/ LCD Monitor
The Obsidian SF-RW5713 is one of the strong and compatible water rowers. It features a steel frame, a moderate
LCD monitor and a compact design. With great esthetics and simple assembly, it is perfect as a home workout machine and comes with tools for assembly. The monitor includes two workout modes – manual and race mode, recovery function, and the option to connect a heart rate chest strap. The model has a 3-year warranty on structural frame and 90 days for other parts and components. The user weight capacity is 250 lbs, which falls in the lowest category.
Build
Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian SF-RW5713 Water Rowing Machine features an all-steel built. With the water tank, the model weighs about 81 lbs, making it one of the lightest water rowing machines. The front base includes in-built wheels for mobility and two rubber pads for better floor grip. The footprint of this model after assembly is comparatively smaller with a dimension of 79 inches of length and 22 inches of width.
Features
The water resistance system works pretty decent, providing actual rowing experience to the users. The tank is made of polycarbonate material, making it strong and durable. The resistance is user-controlled, meaning the faster you row, the more resistance it generates and vice versa. The triple blades inside the tank are built to last and offers smooth stroke making experience.
The LCD monitor attached to the machine offers a myriad of workout tracking features such as calories burned, strokes per minute, distance covered, time taken, and scan mode. There is also an option to monitor heart rate using a strap. However, the machine doesn’t come with a strap.
Non-slip foot pads with nylon straps for extra stability, foot levelers to adjust the obsidian to the floor, molded padded seat for extra comfort, space efficient and lightweight design are some of the other features of the Obsidian SF-RW5713 model. Overall, it offers a decent home workout experience without burning a hole in your pocket.
Pros:
- Easy assembly, space-friendly
- Quiet operation despite being a water rower
Cons:
- No backlight for monitor
- Heart rate chest strap is not included with the model
10. Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower
Stamina is a reputed brand and a leading manufacturer in the fitness industry. Coming from such a popular brand,
this rowing machine is loaded with unique features, a user-friendly functioning, easy assembly, and foldable design for easy storage. It comes with an advance In-Touch fitness monitor with as much as 12 workout programs. The carefully crafted design provides an excellent upper body as well as lower body workout. The model comes with a three year warranty on the frame and a meagre 90-day warranty on the parts. The maximum user capacity is 275 lbs for the machine.
Build
With an assembled dimension of 24.5 inches of height, 20 inches of width, and 81 inches of length, this is a compact machine that would easily fit in a studio apartment. It has an extruded aluminum beam for a comfortable rowing experience. The large seat offers excellent comfort and the padded handles provides comfortable and firm grip. The Avari programmable magnetic rower is an exception in the industry and focuses on superior quality. The resistance comes from magnetic brake system and offers the quality of a commercial, high-end equipment. It also has a chest wrap heart rate monitor that allows the user to track the heart rate and optimize the workout based on a comfortable range.
Features
One of the highlights of this model is the In-Touch fitness monitor on a huge, backlit LCD screen. The monitor is loaded with 12 workout programs. Some of them are manual mode, ramp mode, fat burn mode, valley mode, target heart rate mode, interval mode and four other customized modes. The workout data includes distance covered, time taken, pulse rate, strokes per minute etc.
Assembly is pretty easy compared to many other models in the market. Stamina claims that the model takes just one hour for assembly but user testimonials show that it can be done quicker than that. It is also a great option for users who live in small apartments as it can be folded for easy storage. This is a huge advantage, considering the fact that water rowers usually consume a lot of space.
Pros:
- Easy storage
- Advanced design
- In-Touch monitor
Cons:
- Limited warranty on components
11. Stamina Products Conversion II Recumbent Bike / Rower
The Stamina Conversion II Recumbent Bike/Rowing machine, also known by the name “Stamina 15-9003 Deluxe
Conversion II, is an ideal choice for people who are looking for a machine that serves multiple purposes. This model from Stamina is a combination of bike and rower. In addition to that, the cabled bar serves as a pulley, enabling the user to perform strength workouts such as bicep curls, shoulder raise etc. The assembled dimensions are 27 inches of height, 20 inches of width and 75.5 inches of length. It weighs around 102 lbs, which is pretty light when compared to many other models. The conversion II model comes with a warranty of three years for the frame and 90 days for components.
Build
The model is mainly built on sturdy steel and aluminum that ensures durability and stability. This is a hybrid model of a recumbent bike and a rowing machine. It also works as an exercise pulley to target your entire upper body. It has 8 levels of magnetic resistance to alter workout intensity. The pulse sensor in the handlebar will help to monitor your heart rate to choose the optimal heart zone workouts. The maximum user weight supported is 250 lbs. The design is foldable and provides easy storage.
Features
The USP of the model is the 3 in one machine feature. It increases diversity of workout and enables you to specifically target different body parts. The bike offers an exclusive lower body workout, the pulley facilitates upper body workout and finally, the rower provides a full-body workout.
The Conversion II Recumbent Bike/Rowing features a large LCD screen that facilitates better visibility. Every six seconds, it scans function cycles through workout settings. The user can easily track data such as speed, time, distance, pulse and calories burned.
Although the assembly of the machine takes time, it is comparatively simple and easy, thanks to the detailed assembly manual with step-by-step instructions. After workout, it can be easily transported on the casters to a compact space.
Pros:
- 3 in 1 machine
- Compact design & easy storage
- Durability
Cons:
- Basic LCD monitor without advanced features
- Less seat comfort
12. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine
For someone who is looking for an amazing cardiovascular workout on a daily basis, Sunny health and fitness SF-
RW5515 magnetic rowing machine is an ideal option. The rower provides an eight level resistance that can be adjusted conveniently based on the user needs. With an easy twist of the connected knob, you can increase or reduce the resistance that suits your comfort. The rower also features a large pedal with firm grip and safety straps. Maximum user weight supported by the machine is 250 lbs. The manufacturer extends a 90-day warranty for frame as well as components.
Build
This magnetic rower weighs 59 lbs and features a length of 82 inches, width of 19 inches, and height of 23 inches. The resistance comes from magnetic brakes and provides 8 different levels of resistance. The anti-slip foot pedals and adjustable straps offer a comfortable footrest and workout flexibility. The foldable design contributes to easy storage. Padded seat and ergonomically designed handlebars provide solid support during workout and the built-in wheels offer easy portability.
Features
The digital monitor in the machine shows exercise details such as calories burned, count of strokes, duration of workout etc. The scan mode in the monitor helps to keep up with all the exercise data. Overall, the monitor is basic and certainly not the best in the market. It doesn’t offer data transfer, preloaded workout programs or heart rate monitoring.
Easy storage and light weight is another feature of the SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rower. The model weighs 59 lbs and is one of the lighter models available in the market. The compact size and foldable design helps in easy storage and portability.
There is nothing flashy about the entire machine but it offers a great workout with a decent built and durable design. The warranty period is very small, compared to most of the models out there. The bottom line is that this model is good for its price range but certainly not the best. Sunny Health & Fitness is a reputed manufacturer in the fitness industry and has certainly offered a reliable product with basic features.
Pros:
- Compact design
- Easy assembly within 30-45 minutes
Cons:
- Basic monitor with minimum features
- 90 days limited warranty
13. Stamina DT Pro Rower
With dual resistance of air and magnetism, the DT Pro Rower is one of the best products from Stamina. The dual
resistance offers a full-body workout with smooth strokes. It is a nine feet long machine, making it one of the largest home rowing machines out there. However, the aluminum-made beam can be folded upright to save space. The maximum user weight supported is 300 lbs, which falls under the minimum category for a rowing machine. The model has a 5-year frame warranty and a 90-day component warranty. Although the component warranty is limited when compared to many other similar models, Stamina’s reputation and reliability makes this model trustworthy.
Build
The dimension of Stamina DT Pro Rower is about 89.8 x 20 x 40.5 inches. The stainless steel and aluminum built provides durability and the nylon rowing strap produces high-intensity strokes without generating noise. The technologically advanced, back-lit LCD monitor offers 12 preloaded workout programs. The contoured seats offer a smooth flow for each stroke and the textured footrest with adjustable straps provide extra grip and stability. The foldable design also makes for easy storage.
Features
The dual-resistance technology is the key highlight of this model. The combination of air-magnetic resistance works to produce a dynamic rowing experience. It creates serious intensity, eventually giving serious results for the user. The rowing experience gets closer to the actual water rowing, with both the air and magnetic resistance working together.
The powerful, back-lit monitor offers advanced features such as 12 workout programs, heart rate tracking, workout time, distance covered, stroke count, and calories burned. As a cherry on top of the cake, Stamina offers a heart rate transmitter chest strap to wirelessly transfer heart rate to the monitor – completely free of cost.
Even though the DT Pro Rower has a larger frame and occupies considerable space, Stamina has taken precautions for that. The model can easily be stored in limited space by folding the beam upright.
Pros:
- Air – magnetic dual resistance for better strokes
- Advanced LCD monitor
- Easy to store albeit large frame
Cons:
- Limited warranty for components
- Only 300 lbs of user weight support
- Low-quality Velcro straps
14. Stamina ATS Air Rower
If you are looking for a budget-friendly rowing machine, with great features, then you might have just hit the jackpot.
Stamina ATS air rower is a perfect option for people who can’t afford high-end, costly models. This uses air for its resistance, which is a plus considering the fact that air resistance is said to be the best resistance for rowing machines. The operation is pretty much the standard, with the flywheel starts spinning when the handle is pulled. However, Stamina ATS air rower doesn’t include a damper that is featured in many high-end models. The assembled size comes with 77 inches of length, 18 inches of width and 22 inches of height. The folded dimensions include a height of 48 inches, width of 18 inches, and length of 28 inches. There is also a 3 – year frame warranty and a 90-day component warranty.
Build
Most of the high-end models include a damper-flywheel combination. Damper is mainly used to regulate the resistance. This model doesn’t include a damper. However, the wind resistance provides a smooth rowing experience and efficient strokes. The seat is padded and upholstered and offers a comfortable position while using the machine and the seat rail is angled for easy seat return. The handle is textured, which offers better grip during strokes. Also, the nylon rowing strap will help to increase the durability. The frame is foldable for better storage and includes built-in wheels for portability. The overall construction is based on sturdy steel in order to increase the durability.
Features
The air resistance used in the model provides smooth strokes. The harder you work, the more resistance is built. This model comes with a multi-functional monitor to track speed, duration of workout, distance covered and total amount of calories burned. It shows all the basic data needed to analyze your workout intensity and progress.
Comfortable design is one of the great features of Stamina ATS Air Rower.Large footplates used in this model can accommodate all types of users. The seat is upholstered and padded to increase stability and durability, which is a specialty that many models don’t possess.
Pros:
- Easy storage
- Built-in wheels for mobility
Cons:
- No damper
15. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5639 Full Motion Rowing Machine
A budget-friendly model from Sunny Health & Fitness, the SF-RW5639 Full Motion Rowing Machine features many
unique aspects. One of them is the resistance and the other is the “free motion” arm technique. The model uses hydraulic cylinder to create resistance, with 12 different levels of adjustable resistance. The free motion arm mechanism allows users to move their hands in several angles to make the workout more intense and interesting. The assembled dimension is 51.5 inches of length, 24 inches of width and 14 inches of height, which makes the model one of the compact machines in the industry. The manufacturer offers a 3-year warranty for structural frame and 90 days for other parts and components.
Build
One of the highlights of this model is the strong built quality. The frame is made of steel and is capable to take on 350 lbs of weight and associated stress. The resistance is smooth and creates comfortable strokes. Another unique quality of this model is the free motion arm mechanism, which allows users to pull in different angles to workout different muscles and create more intense strokes.
Seat is fully padded to provide comfort and stability. The handlebars are textured for extra grip and support. The foot pedals are large, anti-slip and comes with adjustable straps for safety and comfortable footrest.
Features
The SF-RW5639 Full Motion Rowing Machine uses a hydraulic-piston resistance. This indicates that the entire resistance comes from a single piston located under the seat rail. This piston is connected to two “free motion” rowing arms. When the user pulls the arms, the fluid is passed through the piston to create resistance. The resistance is controlled by twisting a spin, placed under the seat.
This model comes with an extended weight capacity of 350 lbscompared to its predecessors, which offered just 250 lbs. There are 12 different levels of resistance, which can be adjusted as per user needs. The LCD display monitor offers features such as scan, count of strokes, time, calories burned etc.
Pros:
- Lightweight of 33lbs
- Compact
- Easy to store
Cons:
- Insufficient resistance for athletes and strong users
- Basic monitor
