What Are the Benefits Of Using A Rowing Machine?

21 minutes read

Using a rowing machine offers a comprehensive workout that engages multiple muscle groups, making it an effective tool for improving overall fitness. It provides both cardiovascular and strength training, which can enhance endurance, build muscle, and aid in weight management. The rowing motion is low-impact, reducing stress on the joints while still offering a high-calorie burn. It helps improve posture and flexibility by engaging the core and promoting a full range of motion. Additionally, rowing can boost mental health by reducing stress and anxiety, thanks to the rhythmic and repetitive nature of the exercise, which can have meditative effects. The adjustable resistance levels on rowing machines make them suitable for users of all fitness levels, and they are convenient for home use, offering a space-efficient and versatile workout option.

Best Rowing Machines of March 2025

1
YOSUDA Water Rowing Machines for Home Use- Foldable Rower Machine 400LBS Weight Capacity with Dedicated Monitor & Bluetooth APP, Comfortable Seat

Rating is 5 out of 5

YOSUDA Water Rowing Machines for Home Use- Foldable Rower Machine 400LBS Weight Capacity with Dedicated Monitor & Bluetooth APP, Comfortable Seat

  • Revolutionary 180° Foldable Storage Design: Save space in your home with our innovative folding feature; The elegant beech wood finish adds a stylish touch, making it blend seamlessly with your home decoration
  • Robust 400 lbs Capacity: The YOSUDA water rowing machine, meticulously crafted from solid beech wood, offers exceptional durability and stability; Accommodating users up to 78.74 inches tall, it’s the perfect fit for nearly every member of your family
  • Never Worry Leaking Problem: The oversized tank of the folding rowing machine provides ample resistance for your workout; With patented sealing technology, no need to drain after use and no water leakage when stored upright
  • Full-Body Muscle Workout: Featuring an oversized water tank, this water rower delivers ample resistance; Each stroke engages 90% of your muscle groups; All stages users get an effective workout whether you are beginners or professionals
2
Concept2 RowErg Model D Indoor Rowing Machine Gray Color with PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

Concept2 RowErg Model D Indoor Rowing Machine Gray Color with PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage

  • Integrated Device Holder allows you to keep your Smart Phone or Tablet securely in place. Compatible with over 40+ apps.
  • 14-inch seat height fits most uses. Adjustable footrests and ergonomic handle
  • Indoor rowing is an effective full-body and low-impact workout; flywheel design minimizes noise while maximizing a smooth feel
  • Easily separates into two pieces for storage. Caster wheels make it mobile. Construction: Aluminum front legs and steel rear legs.
3
YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine 350 LB Weight Capacity - Rower Machine for Home Use with LCD Monitor, Tablet Holder and Comfortable Seat Cushion-New Version

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine 350 LB Weight Capacity - Rower Machine for Home Use with LCD Monitor, Tablet Holder and Comfortable Seat Cushion-New Version

  • Choose YOSUDA: Design and produce top-quality exercise machines for home use for over 20 years. YOSUDA has been chosed by more than 3,000,000 families and we will always stand behind our product
  • 10× 10 Powerful Magnetic: Equipped with a 10-lb flywheel and high-quality magnetic control system, this rower machine provides enough resistance. All stages users can get an effective workout whether you are a beginner or an advanced user
  • Dual Silent System: The non-contact magnetic resistance system delivers a virtually silent rowing experience. High-density steel reduces noise, changing your daily rowing into pleasure. You can enjoy your workout without worries anytime
  • 6-Types of Data Disply: The 3.45-inch LCD monitor clearly displays the rowing data. You can put the phone or tablet on the holder to enjoy the videos or music
4
Rowing Machine, MERACH Bluetooth Magnetic Rower Machine with Dual Slide Rail, 16 Levels of Electromagnetic Resistance, Max 350lb Weight Capacity, App Compatible, Rowing Machines for Home Use

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

Rowing Machine, MERACH Bluetooth Magnetic Rower Machine with Dual Slide Rail, 16 Levels of Electromagnetic Resistance, Max 350lb Weight Capacity, App Compatible, Rowing Machines for Home Use

  • Upgraded Electromagnetic Resistance: The electromagnetic flywheel provides more stable and sufficient power than traditional magnetic resistance, ensuring a more efficient and smooth workout experience
  • Smart Electronic Control: Precisely manage 16 levels of electromagnetic resistance with a simple twist. Pull to start, and enjoy automatic resistance adjustment via the MERACH app, freeing your hands for an uninterrupted workout.
  • Less Noise While Rowing: Customized smooth and quiet magnetic flywheel system makes the workout extremely quiet. Q1S rower machine for home avoids the worries of bothering other family members.
  • Easy Assemble: The Merach rowing machine can be easily assembled within 30 mins by most users. It is partially pre-assembled and can be moved around easily.
5
Rowing Machine,Wenoker Magnetic Rower Machine for Home,350 LB Weight Capacity, Smooth Whisper Quiet with LCD Monitor Tablet Holder & Comfortable Seat Cushion, Compact and Saves Space

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Rowing Machine,Wenoker Magnetic Rower Machine for Home,350 LB Weight Capacity, Smooth Whisper Quiet with LCD Monitor Tablet Holder & Comfortable Seat Cushion, Compact and Saves Space

  • [Smooth & Quiet Magnetic Resistance] Wenoker rowing machine is equipped with an advanced magnetic resistance system. With noise levels <30 DB, you can enjoy rowing quietly without disturbing your family or neighbors. It stays stable and never wobbles even when using it with high and constant resistance. Unlike not much friendly air and water resistance rowers: only the faster you pull, the more resistance they provides.
  • [Ergonomic Design Details] The ergonomically designed cushion seat of this rower machine ensures support and coziness. The long slide fits users from 4'5'' to 6'2'', making it a great machine for the whole household. With a high-quality textured silicone handle, sweaty hands won’t slip off as easily, and it has an additional protective covering to prevent blisters. The easy-on-and-off foot strap system works for different shoe sizes, which is a truly customizable rowing machine.
  • [LCD monitor & Tablet Holder] The LCD monitor can track your fitness performance while rowing, including time, speed, distance, calories burned. You can use this data to develop your fitness plan. Place your mobile devices on the stand, and you can exercise while watching videos, providing a very comfortable fitness experience. (Tablet not included.)
  • [Total Body Workout] This magnetic rowing machine is an efficient machine for total body muscle workouts. Engage and strengthen legs, glutes, core, back, arms & shoulders. It burns serious calories and work your muscular and cardiovascular systems.
6
MERACH Rowing Machines for Home, Adjustable Air Resistance Professional Indoor Rowing Machine, Ergonomic Comfort Seat, Performance Monitor and Device Holder, Easy Storage

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

MERACH Rowing Machines for Home, Adjustable Air Resistance Professional Indoor Rowing Machine, Ergonomic Comfort Seat, Performance Monitor and Device Holder, Easy Storage

  • Full-Body Low-Impact Workout: Indoor rowing provides an effective full-body, low-impact exercise. In just 20 minutes, you can engage over 86% of your major muscle groups, all without needing to go outdoors
  • Air Resistance System: 10-level air resistance system with up to 110 lbs of peak resistance, catering to various workout intensities
  • Designed for Taller Users: Extended track with durable, high-quality steel construction, supports up to 350 lbs, ensuring both safety and comfort during workouts
  • Professional Performance Monitor: Delivers accurate workout data and connects via Bluetooth to the Merach APP. Includes a device holder for your smartphone or tablet
7
MERACH Magnetic Rowing Machines for Home, Foldable Rowing Machine with 16-Level, Compact Row Saves 20% Space, 350 LBS Load Capacity, Free MERACH App and 1000+ Champion Coaching Course & Games

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

MERACH Magnetic Rowing Machines for Home, Foldable Rowing Machine with 16-Level, Compact Row Saves 20% Space, 350 LBS Load Capacity, Free MERACH App and 1000+ Champion Coaching Course & Games

  • Next-Level Rowing Performance: The shark-inspired appearance enhances both aesthetics and performance, boosting resistance by over 11% compared to regular rowing machine, with 16 adjustable levels for a more efficient workout.
  • Compact & Foldable for Small Spaces: With a space-saving design that reduces footprint by 20%, this rowing machine is ideal for apartments or limited spaces, offering easy storage without sacrificing performance.
  • Full-Body Low-Impact Workout: Indoor rowing provides an effective full-body, low-impact exercise. In just 20 minutes, you can engage over 86% of your major muscle groups, all without needing to go outdoors
  • Unlock 1000+ Workouts & Games: Connect via Bluetooth to the exclusive MERACH App, featuring over 1,000 interactive courses and fun games. Plus, enjoy 6 months of free premium membership with your purchase!
  • Train Like a Champion: Access exclusive rowing tutorials and personalized fat-burning plans designed by champion coaches, all while the professional monitor keeps you on track with detailed performance metrics.
8
Rowing Machine, MOSUNY Magnetic Rowing Machines for Home 350 LB Weight Capacity, 16 Levels Resistance Row Machine with Dual Slide Rail, Bluetooth, App Compatible 2025

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

Rowing Machine, MOSUNY Magnetic Rowing Machines for Home 350 LB Weight Capacity, 16 Levels Resistance Row Machine with Dual Slide Rail, Bluetooth, App Compatible 2025

  • 16-Level Powerful Magnetic:MOSUNY rowing machine is equipped with a high-quality magnetic control system and an upgraded 16-level adjustable resistance. It allows users to find the optimal resistance intensity for their needs, whether they are elderly individuals undergoing rehabilitation training, or fitness enthusiasts seeking to build muscle. Unlike other 8-level row machine, the 16-Level resistance have more varied sporting experience.
  • Bluetooth App Compatible: Connect your smartphone or device to the rowing machine via Bluetooth, fully master real-time rowing data! This rowing machine is also compatible with the KINOMAP APP, which allows you to immerse yourself in the splash of nature while rowing at home! You can also visit professional rowing training courses, discover new challenges and improve yourself!
  • Dual Slide Rail, Stable & Smooth Design: We use a thickened commercial quality steel on this magnetic rowing machine to give it a better texture, durability, and higher load, supporting a maximum load of 350 pounds. Our dual slide rail is more stable than a single slide rail, won't wobble even with intense exercise, allowing you to maximize your potential.
  • 7-Types of Data Disply: The LCD monitor tracks your rowing time, counts, total count, 500 meters in time, frequency, distance, and calories in real time, allowing you to track your progress towards your goals. The device holder lets you place your smartphone and IPAD to enjoy videos or music while using the rower machine.


What are the pros and cons of rowing machines?

Rowing machines offer a range of benefits as well as some potential drawbacks. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons:

Pros

  1. Full-Body Workout: Rowing machines engage multiple muscle groups, including the legs, core, back, and arms, providing a comprehensive workout.
  2. Cardiovascular Benefits: Rowing can significantly improve cardiovascular fitness and endurance over time.
  3. Low-Impact Exercise: Rowing is generally low-impact, which reduces stress on joints and lowers the risk of injury, making it suitable for people of various fitness levels.
  4. Calorie Burning: It can be an effective way to burn calories, which aids in weight management and loss.
  5. Improves Coordination: The rowing motion helps improve coordination and balance.
  6. Versatile Intensity: The intensity can be easily adjusted to suit different fitness levels, from beginners to experienced athletes.
  7. Compact: Many rowing machines are relatively compact or can be folded, making them suitable for home use.
  8. Mental Health Benefits: Like many forms of exercise, rowing can also help reduce stress and improve mental well-being.

Cons

  1. Technique-Dependent: Proper form is crucial to avoid injury and maximize benefits, which might be difficult for beginners to master without guidance.
  2. Limited Upper Body Isolation: While it does involve the upper body, it may not be as effective for those specifically targeting upper-body strength.
  3. Potential for Lower Back Strain: Incorrect form can lead to lower back strain or injury, so form education is important.
  4. Repetitive Motion: The repetitive nature of rowing might lead to boredom for some users over time.
  5. Space Requirements: While compact versions exist, a rowing machine still requires a certain amount of space for safe operation.
  6. Cost: High-quality rowing machines can be expensive, though there are more affordable options available.
  7. Noise: Some rowing machines, particularly air-resistance models, can be noisy, which could be an issue in shared living spaces.
  8. Limited Social Interaction: Unlike team sports or group classes, rowing on a machine tends to be solitary.


Overall, whether a rowing machine suits you depends on your personal fitness goals, available space at home, budget, and preference for structured or solitary workouts.


How to track progress on a rowing machine?

Tracking progress on a rowing machine can be a great way to stay motivated and improve your performance over time. Here are some strategies you might find helpful:

  1. Use the Performance Monitor: Most rowing machines, especially those like the Concept2, come equipped with performance monitors. These track key metrics such as distance, time, strokes per minute (SPM), split time (usually per 500 meters), watts, and calories burned. Regularly check these metrics to see improvements.
  2. Set Specific Goals: Determine what you want to achieve, whether it’s improving your 2,000-meter time, increasing your endurance by rowing for longer periods, or burning a certain number of calories per session.
  3. Track Distance and Time: Record the distance you row and the time it takes during each session. Over time, aim to row longer distances in the same or shorter time, or maintain the same distance but reduce your time.
  4. Monitor Stroke Rate: Keep an eye on your strokes per minute (SPM). As you become more efficient, you should be able to maintain or improve your speed with a consistent or slower stroke rate.
  5. Measure Heart Rate: Use a heart rate monitor to track your cardiovascular improvement. Over time, you should be able to complete the same workout with a lower average heart rate, indicating improved fitness.
  6. Use Apps and Software: There are various apps designed to sync with rowing machines that can help log your workouts and progress. Apps like ErgData for Concept2 machines, RowPro, or general fitness apps like Strava might be useful.
  7. Log Your Workouts: Maintain a workout log or journal to track metrics such as distance, time, SPM, and any other relevant data. This helps visualize progress over weeks and months.
  8. Performance Benchmarks: Regularly test yourself with standardized distance benchmarks like 1,000 meters or 2,000 meters, and track any improvements in your times.
  9. Consistency: Ensure you're rowing consistently. Track the frequency of your sessions in addition to performance metrics to help ensure steady progress.
  10. Seek Feedback and Coaching: Consider getting feedback from a coach or using video to analyze your form and technique, as small improvements can lead to better performance over time.


By consistently tracking these elements, you can get a comprehensive picture of your progress and adjustments needed in your rowing technique and fitness regime.


How to warm up before using a rowing machine?

Warming up before using a rowing machine is important to prepare your body for exercise and to prevent injury. Here are some steps you can take to ensure a proper warm-up:

  1. Light Cardiovascular Exercise: Start with 5-10 minutes of light cardio to increase your heart rate and blood circulation. You can do brisk walking, jogging, biking, or using the rowing machine at a very low intensity.
  2. Dynamic Stretches: Focus on dynamic stretching to enhance flexibility and mobility. A few stretches to consider include: Arm Circles: Swing your arms in large circles to loosen up your shoulders. Leg Swings: Hold onto a support and swing your leg forward and backward as well as side to side to activate your hip flexors. Torso Twists: Gently rotate your torso from side to side to engage your core and obliques. Lunges: Perform a few forward or walking lunges to stretch your legs and hips.
  3. Rowing-Specific Movements: Perform a few rowing-specific drills at a low intensity to familiarize your body with the motion: Practice the rowing stroke at a slow pace. Focus on the sequence: legs, body, arms, and then reverse. Pay attention to form, ensuring your back is straight, and your shoulders and neck are relaxed.
  4. Rowing Form Check: Before starting your workout, make sure your rowing form is correct: Sit straight with your core engaged. Adjust the foot straps so your feet are secure. Hold the handle with a relaxed grip and elbows close to your body.
  5. Progressive Intensity Increase: Gradually increase your rowing machine intensity over your first few minutes on the machine. Start with a light resistance and slow pace, then steadily build up to your desired workout level.


Taking these steps should ensure that your body is adequately prepared for a more intense rowing session. Always listen to your body, and if you feel any discomfort, stop and adjust your technique or warm-up routine accordingly.


How to avoid common rowing machine injuries?

Avoiding injuries while using a rowing machine involves a combination of proper technique, appropriate equipment, and listening to your body. Here are some tips to help you prevent common rowing machine injuries:

Proper Technique

  1. Posture: Maintain a straight back with a slight forward lean from the hips during the catch phase. Avoid rounding your back or slumping your shoulders.
  2. Stroke Phases: Understand and practice the correct sequence: Catch, Drive, Finish, Recovery.
  3. Leg Drive: Initiate the drive with your legs, not your back. This helps distribute the effort evenly and reduce strain on your lower back.
  4. Core Engagement: Keep your core engaged to support your lower back throughout the rowing motion.
  5. Smooth Movements: Avoid jerky or rapid movements. Focus on a smooth, controlled stroke.

Equipment and Setup

  1. Footwear: Wear appropriate shoes that provide support and grip.
  2. Machine Settings: Adjust the foot straps and damper settings for comfort and efficiency. Make sure the resistance setting matches your fitness level.
  3. Seat Position: Ensure proper seat alignment and that it moves smoothly on the rail.

Warm-Up and Cool-Down

  1. Warm-Up: Spend 5-10 minutes warming up with dynamic stretches or light rowing to prepare your muscles.
  2. Cool-Down: Finish your session with a cool-down period to gradually lower your heart rate and stretch your muscles.

Avoid Overtraining

  1. Gradual Progression: Increase the intensity and duration of your workouts gradually to avoid overuse injuries.
  2. Rest Days: Incorporate rest days into your routine to allow for muscle recovery.

Listen to Your Body

  1. Pain Signals: If you experience pain, stop immediately. Do not push through serious discomfort.
  2. Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support muscle repair and energy levels.


By focusing on these key areas, you can significantly reduce the risk of injuries and enjoy the benefits of rowing. If you're unsure about your technique or experience ongoing issues, consider consulting a coach or fitness professional for guidance.

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