The Best Rowing Machines
Nothing gets you toned like a rowing machine. These simple machines strengthen your back, shoulders, legs, and even your core so that you can achieve that coveted "rower's body." If you are on the hunt for a machine that you can use in the privacy of your own home, you have come to the right place. The market is flooded with options, but we don't want you to get stuck with one that doesn't live up to your standards. That's why we have decided to whittle down the list to the best of the best. Read on to discover our favorite rowing machines.
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
Coasting past the competition
Being tall might be advantageous, but it comes with a unique set of challenges. For one, folks with their heads in the clouds need extra-long pants. They also need extra-long slide rails on their rowing machines. That’s where Sunny Health & Fitness comes in. Their pulley rowing machine features a 48-inch-long slide rail that can accommodate folks of just about any size. And the comfy seat, too, can accommodate butts of just about any caliber. This pick is another great overall option, with an easy-to-adjust magnetic resistance system and wide foam-grip handlebars for comfort while you pump those muscles.
Pros:
- Quiet, magnetic resistance
- Fairly simple setup
- Stable, solid build
- Extra-long rail
Cons:
- Calorie-counter is inaccurate
Sunny Health & Fitness Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine
Huge gains, huge savings
Although the price on this one is low, this pick is anything but cheap. With a sturdy construction, quiet operation, and compact design, this machine helps cut back on the costs of fitness. It also sports a surprisingly smooth gliding rail system and wide handlebars for targeting different muscle groups. Of course, at this price range, you might find the maximum resistance to be a bit lacking. That being said, those looking for a machine that can deliver effective low-impact aerobic exercises for a bargain price, here it is.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Folds up very compactly
- Solid, sturdy construction
Cons:
- Seat is narrow
- Low-impact resistance
Fitness Reality 1000 Plus Bluetooth Magnetic Rowing Machine
Sweat in the 21st century
Looking to take your workouts to the next level? You might want to consider a rowing system that includes fitness tracking via a phone app. This pick from Fitness Reality has Bluetooth connectivity for keeping track of progress and goals. Better yet, it sports footpads on the front for additional exercises, like shrugs and tricep extensions. And if you think such a fancy-pants machine should cost a fortune, think again. Though not the cheapest out there, this pick is surprisingly affordable, considering the range of exercises and fitness tracking that it offers. Ditch the pen and paper — it’s time to go digital.
Pros:
- Wide range of possible exercises
- Includes free fitness app
- Folds for storage
Cons:
- Max setting offers medium resistance
Sunny Health & Fitness Synergy Power Motion Rowing Machine
Lean, mean, and easy to store
This pick from Sunny Health is another fantastic overall option that offers a little extra in terms of resistance control. With a whopping 16 different resistance settings, this machine can help you fine-tune your workouts as your fitness improves. Great for those that prefer lower-rep sets, this pick can function as both a strength-building buddy and an aerobic machine. Quiet, heavy-duty, and highly adjustable, this is a modestly-priced machine that makes those rigorous workouts a tad bit easier.
Pros:
- Range of 16 resistance levels to customize as you get stronger
- Smooth and quiet action so you won’t disturb your family, neighbors, or roommates
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- The LCD screen is fragile
Lanos Hydraulic Rowing Machine
Understated sophistication
In the world of rowing machines, Lanos is leagues ahead of the competition. Few other options even come close to achieving such convenience at such an affordable price. For example, the entire unit takes only minutes to assemble, so you can start rowing the day it arrives. Lanos also scores top marks in the space-saving category. With a foldable, lightweight design, it’s easy to store the unit in even the closest of quarters. Plus, this machine can handle a wide range of body types, from folks as petite as 4’2″ to those as tall as 6’7″. Best of all, thanks to the flexible handles, you can work different muscle groups. When you come across a rowing machine as affordable and effective as this one, we say grab one while you can.
Pros:
- Great value for the price
- Easy to assemble and store
- Great for low-impact workouts
- Twelve levels of resistance
Cons:
- Velcro foot straps are a bit flimsy
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a rowing machine help me lose weight?
Rowing machines can absolutely help with weight loss. When coupled with dieting, workouts on a rowing machine will boost cardiovascular health and burn calories.
Which muscles do rowing machines work?
Rows are considered a compound exercise, meaning they work more than one muscle group simultaneously. The primary muscles targeted in a row are the deltoids, traps, and lats. These are the muscles of the upper back. Rows can also strengthen the biceps, pecs, and legs. Basically, rowing machines provide a full-body workout with an emphasis on the back muscles. However, much of this comes down to whether or not you’re using the proper form. Be sure to do everything you can to improve your form, whether this means getting help from a professional trainer or using online resources to learn about the matter.
Are rowing machines dangerous?
With compound exercises like rows, there are a finite number of ways to do them correctly and an infinite number of ways to do them incorrectly. Over the course of many sets, improper form can damage ligaments, joints, and muscles, so make sure to research proper form. We recommend setting up your rowing machine in front of a mirror to make sure your back is straight and your shoulders aren’t rounded forward during the finish.
That being said, don’t let the dangers dissuade you. The learning curve isn’t very high, and once you get the form down, your muscle memory will do the rest.
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