Best Rowing Machines in 2022

Last update: November 18, 2022

Are rowing machines really worth it?

Rowing machines are often lauded as one of the best pieces of cardio equipment available, but are they really worth the hype? The answer is a resounding yes! Rowing machines provide a full-body workout that is low-impact and can be adjusted to suit any fitness level. Additionally, rowing machines are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of different exercises beyond just rowing. So, if you’re looking for a piece of equipment that will give you a great workout and won’t break the bank, a rowing machine is

Can rowing be my only exercise?

Yes, rowing can be your only exercise, but it is important to mix up your workout routine to avoid overuse injuries. Rowing is a great cardio workout, but you should also add in some strength training and flexibility work to maintain a well-rounded fitness routine.

Can you get ripped from rowing?

Rowing is a great workout for your upper and lower body, but can you really get ripped from rowing? The answer is yes! Rowing is a great way to build muscle and burn fat, so if you’re looking to get ripped, rowing is a great option.

Does rowing tone your stomach?

Rowing is a great way to tone your stomach muscles. The rowing motion works your abdominal muscles, and the resistance of the water provides a great workout. Rowing also helps to improve your posture and can help to prevent back pain.


Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine PM5 Review:


I've bought gym equipment before, but this is by far the best purchase I've ever made. It is built to endure a lifetime.Since rowing is one of the best exercises for the entire body, I was searching for a high-quality indoor rowing machine. I'm really happy that I decided to spend more money on the Model E in addition to the Concept2. The Model E is significantly simpler to enter and exit than the Model D since it is raised to the same level as a standard chair. If you are elderly or have any mobility limitations, this is very important. In my instance, it was crucial that I bought this model because I underwent back surgery. Absolutely, the added expense is worthwhile.On April 13, 2014, when I started using this rower, I rowed for approximately 200,000 meters, or about 125 miles. The rower has a beautiful vibe to it. It's constructed with such high-quality components that operating it is practically trivial. The monorail seat moves along in almost complete silence, with hardly audible fan noise. While rowing, I listen to music and don't find the machine's noise to be a problem at all. I row for an hour every day, five days a week, as part of my regimen. It features a movable flywheel, however changing the setting to a higher number (between 1 and 10), does not guarantee a greater workout. Your rowing speed will be the key determinant in determining how successful your workout will be. The flywheel might therefore be set to 10 for a very leisurely workout or to a lower number for a more effective one. I personally have mine set at 4, allowing me to get an excellent exercise without running the danger of getting hurt from overexertion.I've had my rower on top of a rubber mat, even though the manufacturer says it's not necessary. Although it might not be necessary if you have tile or wood floors, like I do, I believe a mat is preferable when used on carpet.Although the rower comes with a chest belt heart rate monitor, I chose to buy the MIO Link wrist monitor instead because it is far more user-friendly and performs just as well. When buying a Concept2, you should be aware of one thing: it is enormous. It occupies the majority of the space in my office where I have it set up, at least in length. Thankfully, it splits into two halves for simple storage in a matter of seconds.The assembly instructions are the one thing I believe the business could do better. The majority of the instructions are presented as photos only, without any words. It would be beneficial to include some text as well because I have trouble understanding photos. The rower can be put together quickly and efficiently in under 30 minutes if you know what you're doing. It could be a little frustrating if you have no idea what you're doing. Fortunately, I put mine together during the week, so assistance was only a phone call away.There have been numerous complaints about how uncomfortable the seat is. Although it's really thin, the optional adhesive seat pad that I bought for mine keeps me comfy during the entire workout. On top of the sticky seat pad, I use a Skwoosh Master Row Gel Pad that I also bought. This mixture results in a really relaxing rowing experience.In the end, this rower was well worth the money I spent. On any rower, the quality is without a doubt the highest you'll find. It reminds me of a finely tuned sports car. On the Concept2 Model E, rowing while listening to music is a wonderfully calming experience.Note: If you buy this item straight from the manufacturer, you won't have to pay sales tax unless you reside in Vermont. Since all Amazon items mailed to New York State are subject to sales tax, ordering directly from Amazon saved me almost $88.Update: 05.23.2014 After rowing a lot more over the past two weeks, I've discovered that my seat solution is no longer effective. I am currently experiencing severe buttock pain as a result of my lengthy workouts (over an hour). This may be aggravating the issue because I've previously undergone back surgery. In other words, some people may find the seat issue to be a (painful) point while others may not. Whatever the case, I made the decision to buy an EndureRow rowing machine seat to swap out the one that came with my Concept2 because the seat had grown to be so unpleasant for me. This is a pricey and unproven solution, costing $149. In a week or two, I'll give an update on this seat. Despite this, we give the Concept2 rower a solid 5 stars because it is without a doubt the greatest rower available. As previously indicated, the seat problem is a personal matter and is not Concept2's fault.The EndureRow rowing machine seat was something I tried out for a few days but didn't like. Unfortunately, it did not ease my buttocks ache, and at $149, it is too expensive.Updated on June 6, 2014 I've finally discovered a remedy that helps me get rid of buttocks ache. An aftermarket padded tractor seat is offered by Concept2. The seat measures much larger than a typical seat and has a 6-inch tilted back support. The seat's dimensions are roughly 12" x 16".



Sunny Health & Fitness Squat Assist Row-N-Ride Trainer for Squat Exercise and Glutes Workout with Included Equipment Instructional and Training Videos Review:


After 10 days of use, the following information has been updated: I have been using this device for 10 days, 15 minutes per day, pulsating for 30 seconds every 3 minutes, and otherwise using a complete range of motion. I was confident enough after 4 days to begin utilizing 1 resistance band during my 15-minute workout. In a 15-minute workout, I was able to burn 100 calories. By utilizing this product and ONLY changing my workout regimen, I lost 2 inches off my hips. Black pants on Day 1. Gray pants for day ten. Notable toning and tightness. No loss of weight.first day of use: First of all, I paid $42 for this secondhand computer here with a significant flaw. After looking at the dB approach and understanding that it was out of my price range, I decided it was worth a try. Since this one also engages the upper body, I actually preferred it. My machine had a flaw in that there wasn't a bolt connecting the handle bars to the seat, but I just found it, wah-lah! And the monitor crashed to the ground in pieces. Since I monitor my heart rate and calories on my Nokia Fit screen, I wasn't going to utilize that anyhow ( I have a heavy duty stand that attaches to any of my workout equipment to display it). In any case, the machine offers a great exercise. I was concerned that this machine would overwork my thighs because I already have larger thighs and need to tone my glutes. Instead, I was seeking for a machine that targeted only my glutes. What I can say is that using this machine, your lower midback, butt, and lats feel extremely burned, but your calves are unaffected. I never imagined I'd possess a piece of aerobic gear with such effective lower back exercise capabilities. If you want to tone your upper back and arms, I wouldn't rely on this machine. For that, a rowing machine is going to be required. BUT WOW, this machine is really worth it since it offers a phenomenal lower back workout that is lot more enjoyable than Superman's, isolates the glutes, and does so much more. My resting heart rate is 48, so when I used this machine for 10 minutes, it maintained a constant 130 without any additional resistance bands. Although it's not a terrific aerobic workout, it's fantastic because it targets certain muscle areas that are difficult to isolate on other machines. NOTE ONE THING. As long as you place two to three resistance bands on the seat, you can perform the exercise shown on the DB website to isolate your triceps. This seat cannot be used to exercise your abs because it is powered by your body weight and resistance bands rather than a piston. Hope this is useful to you guys. This device is definitely worthwhile if you are even contemplating it. Best purchase I've made recently.



Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5639 Full Motion Rowing Machine Rower w/ 350 lb Weight Capacity and LCD Monitor Review:


This workout is comparable to a leisurely canoe ride in difficulty. I'm lucky since I'm looking for that.Even though I am not at all strong, I turned this machine's resistance all the way up to simulate the sensation of rowing over water.Although I don't like to exercise, I do enjoy rowing, thus for me, this was a wonderful, calming, gentle workout.I am also 5'3" and can easily grasp the grips.It was simple to put together and is quiet enough to be done while watching TV. I spent approximately 40 minutes putting it together by myself. It was made simpler by the attractive, well-organized way they packaged it.It seems like a good exercise equipment for the price of $100. If you're seeking for a more intense workout, I do believe this isn't the best option.



XTERRA Fitness ERG200 Folding Magnetic Resistance Rower Review:


Pretty good all around. The appliance feels well-designed and is sturdy. They give good assembly instructions, and the device assembles without too much difficulty. At first, I was a little shocked to see that one of the sub-assemblies—more precisely, the arm to which the foot pads attach—was actually missing from the box. The good news is that they had amazing customer service; a live person actually answered the phone when I called, and I informed them of the missing part (using the part numbers from the instructions). He immediately had an order confirmation for shipping me the part in my inbox and understood exactly what I was referring to. An added plus was that my warranty was already in place because Amazon had entered my customer information into the Xterra Fitness system.The machine rows easily and is relatively quiet. Before my wife gets up in the morning, I exercise in the basement. She claims that she cannot hear anything and sleeps during my workout. I can't really complain about the motion; while it isn't quite as smooth as a more expensive rower, it is still generally very fluid.My only major complaints are that 1. the resistance is a little low, even at the maximum level (which are addressed in previous reviews). I need at least ten minutes to start perspiring. Maybe 20 minutes will pass before I feel a major burn. But because I'm 6'1" and lift weights almost exclusively, I definitely exert a little bit more force than the average user. I suppose I'm growing picky, but a rower is for cardio, not strength training. Computers are Gripe 2. I wish it could figure out how far something is. It displays time, strokes, and a standard calorie counter. I kind of wish it could measure distance as well because I don't think the calories piece is calculated accurately and the numbers look overly optimistic in my opinion. Again, I'm probably being picky because distance is probably less significant than time spent under stress or a higher heart rate. A better computer and more resistance would raise the rating to five stars.It's good that for a cheap rower, it accomplishes exactly what it promises it will. What's more significant is that the build quality is perhaps greater than I anticipated for a cheap rower.



Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine Rower w/LCD Monitor Review:


These are my initial thoughts, but I only received it yesterday, put it together, and gave it a little test drive. I'll have to report back on its durability.It is quite simple to assemble. The parts for each step are individually packaged and labeled "Step 1," "Step 2," etc., and there are only 5 steps in all to assemble what is contained in the box. Also included were the four assembly-related tools. The entire procedure was incredibly simple and straightforward, taking only about 30 minutes. Given the pricing, the finished product seemed really strong. This rower is undoubtedly low profile (as are most), and folding it up to save space while not in use only takes a minute. I appreciate how the product appears when it is both fully unfolded and folded. I think this rower has a nice aesthetic appeal (relatively speaking).My little test run confirmed that the machine was really quiet, and the seat and handle resistance were both very smooth. No creaking at all, not even on initial use. Although the digital display is quite simple and powered by batteries rather than an electrical outlet, I wasn't anticipating a highly sophisticated display at this price point.Due to this, my initial opinion of the goods is overwhelmingly favorable, and I am initially quite happy with my purchase. Let's hope it continues to hold up now.UPDATEAfter 4 1/2 months of utilizing this system, I felt the need to give an update. The device keeps operating silently and smoothly. I am 6'3" (with a 34" inseam, which is more crucial to determine whether you would fit on a rowing machine than your overall height). It doesn't matter how tall your upper torso is.) and 240 lbs with no issues whatsoever. This machine has resistance ranging from 1 to 8. I began at 3 and gradually increased to 8, which is where I currently exercise. You don't have to be a bodybuilder to complete the 30 minutes even at level 8, which is acceptable. A cardio/toning machine like this one. Visit the weight room if you want to truly bulk up. Throughout each workout, the resistance remains constant, even, and smooth. This machine's physical components continue to function well, and I have no issues at all.This rower's display, which is basically worthless, is its only drawback. Setting a workout for a specific number of minutes can be difficult. The estimates of calories burned on the display are largely meaningless and not even educated. Once you're able to set it (again, be patient), the display will just function as a timer and will tell you how many rows you accomplished during a workout. The end of that. You must keep your expectations in check in this situation.Overall, this is a very reliable device for the price with a completely ineffective display. I'm still content at this price point. Have fun rowing!



Fitness Reality 1000 Plus Bluetooth Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine with Extended Optional Full Body Exercises and Free App Review:


It was packed to prevent damage during shipping, and I received the rower in 4 business days. I completed it in about 40 minutes, and it was extremely simple because the instructions were clear and the parts were numbered. The two large bolts that had to go in the foot pad's bottom holes and the other two bolts that hold the foot pad in its top holes were the only component that initially perplexed me. Just the lowest two bolts support the foot pad. The seat and pulling action are both quiet and of decent quality. Given that I don't have much space, it folds up easily and takes up minimal space, which is vital to me. My first workout consisted of 20 minutes of rowing, which raised my heart rate and made my arms and back muscles work. There was no problem with having to stop throughout the workout because the foot pads keep my feet safe and the velcro is robust. It doesn't move at all when I use it on carpet. I've tried exercises like bicep curls and upright rows, so having another option to raise weights will be fantastic. The console functions, and since rowing for cardio is my major focus, I probably won't connect it to my phone. I will need to buy a cushion for the seat because it is firm. The longer someone rows, the more uncomfortable almost any seat will become. I think this rower is good value for the money, and I'm satisfied with my purchase.



Sunny Health & Fitness Water Rowing Machine Rower w/LCD Monitor - Obsidian SF-RW5713 Review:


Instead of paying over a thousand dollars on a concept 2, I decided to buy this. I've been rowing for years, but I've only ever used concept 2 ergs. So how does that compare to that? Would I really put a complete squad on it for the entire day of practice? Most likely not, but for personal usage at my house, this item is sturdy. The maximum weight is 300 lbs, and it appears to be sturdy enough to support that. When compared to a concept 2's fan, the water drive on the slide is surprisingly quiet. Although there is some noise, it is nearly comfortable. A competitive rower could go for their personal best if I didn't think twice about putting them on it. I'm not trying to do sub-7 minute 2ks because I'm several years removed from my peak fitness, but I can still pull very hard at 220 pounds and it holds my weight without any issues; it doesn't flex or grind, and it feels smooth throughout the entire stroke. Although it doesn't feel like it offers as much resistance as a Concept 2 on level 10, the water at its highest level is more than sufficient to imitate on-water rowing with a little extra. Anyone taller than me—I'm 5'11"—would probably run out of slide before you finished your stroke. In conclusion, this is a fantastic device that I would suggest to anyone searching for a reliable rowing machine but lacking the funds for a Concept 2. If my viewpoint changes for any reason after the first 30 days of use, I will post updates again.


How long do you have to row to see results?

If you want to see results from rowing, you need to be consistent and put in the time. The general rule of thumb is that you need to row for at least 30 minutes a day, 3-5 times a week. This may seem like a lot, but if you break it up into shorter sessions throughout the day, it's doable. And, the more you row, the better your results will be.

How long should I row to lose weight?

Rowing is a great way to lose weight. You can row for as long as you want, but for the best results, you should row for at least 30 minutes a day.

How long should you workout on a rowing machine?

The duration of your workout on a rowing machine will depend on your fitness goals. If you are looking to improve your cardiovascular fitness, you should aim for 30-60 minutes of continuous rowing. If you are trying to build muscle, you can do shorter, more intense sessions. For example, you could row for two minutes at a high intensity, followed by two minutes of rest. Repeat this cycle for 20-30 minutes.

Is 20 minutes of rowing enough?

Yes, 20 minutes of rowing is enough to provide a great workout. Rowing is a great cardio exercise that can help to improve your fitness level and burn calories.

Is a rowing machine good for belly fat?

A rowing machine is a great way to tone your muscles and lose belly fat. Rowing machines provide a great workout for your entire body, including your abdominal muscles. When you row, your abdominal muscles work to stabilize your body and keep your balance. This helps to tone your abdominal muscles and reduce belly fat.

Is a treadmill or a rower better for fitness?

A treadmill and a rower are both great for fitness, but they each have their own advantages. A treadmill is a great way to get your heart rate up and to burn calories. You can also increase the incline on a treadmill to really challenge your legs. A rower is a great way to get a full-body workout. Rowing works your arms, legs, and core, and it’s a great cardio workout. So, which is better for fitness? It really depends on your goals. If you want to lose weight, a