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5 Best Rowing Machines 2020 – Detailed Review

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A rowing machine or rather an indoor rower is principally a machine that is created to assist simulate the actions of a watercraft rowing with the main goal of exercise or just even training for rowing purposes. Of recent the indoor rowing has gotten recognized as one of the sports in its own right. Now today however we choose to look at the modern rowing machines that sometimes are known as the Ergometers because they are capable of measuring the amount of work that has been performed. The advantage of this machine is that you get to enjoy a full body workout in the comfort of your own home without being scared of drowning. 

5 Best Rowing Machines 2020

  1. WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine in Ash Wood with S4 MonitorCheck price on Amazon *********is popular for its enclosed water tank and the solid ash and stained honey oak construction
  2. Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower – Check price on Amazon *****Is popular for its In Touch® Fitness Monitor, LCD backlit fitness monitor and 12 workout programs
  3. Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 – Check price on Amazon  *****Is built with 500 pound capacity, performance monitor 5 and easily separates into 2 pieces
  4. Stamina Air Rower – Check price on Amazon *****Is best known for its multi-function performance, wind-resistance and floor protectors
  5. Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower – Check price on Amazon *****Is built with an electronic control, drum magnetic control system and finally up to 12 programs

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A ROWING MACHINE?

Fitness goals: well it is very important for you to determine your fitness goals when you are buying a rowing machine. This is because your fitness goal will determine exactly which kind of rowing machine you get to buy and that it will suit your goals best. So let me categorize the fitness goals in three categories like losing weight, strength building and training for an event.  So if your main goal is to lose weight then you need to buy a low cost rowing machine that is constructed with light resistance that will assist you get started. Then if your goal is for strength building then you should choose the models that contain more tension levels so that they will provide you with a great intensity as your workout. Finally if you are training for an upcoming event as you main goal then you need to buy a rowing machine that contains a range of resistance as well as programs that will provide you an all round workout.

Type of resistance: another quality you should look out foe when buying a rowing machine is the type of resistance it is built with because not of all of them have the same type of resistance. Now the major kinds of resistance are the magnetic, sculling and the hydraulic resistance that you will come across in most rowing machines. Now the magnetic resistance is able to provide you with a very smooth action that will let you feel like you are rowing across water.  Then the sculling resistance is the kind that makes use of a swinging lever or two instead of a bar and a cable however they have the advantage of being easier to get the hand but disadvantage of not being so fun to use. Finally is the hydraulic resistance that provides a lot less realistic rowing action and yet offers an excellent value for money. However in conclusion, the magnetic resistance is the best as it is very reliable as compared to the rest.

Features: there are a number of features you shouldn’t miss out while buying a rowing machine and some of these features include;

  • Metal foot-plates: now when you are rowing, you will definitely have to place a lot of pressure on the foot plates and that is why you should look for the ones that are constructed using metal material especially the bracing and the brackets. This is because usually plastic materials won’t last longer due to the immense pressure being placed on them
  • Computer console: now the kind of console you should look out for are the automatic consoles that contain a manual over-ride on then for the resistance. This console should be able to display some details of the workout like the distance, the overall time, strokes per minute, number of strokes, time over 500 meters and then the in-built programs as well.
  • Seat-rail length: if you are tall then you will definitely have to choose the rowing machines with longer seat rails and make sure to choose the smooth metal-alloy rails.
  • Pulling drive-system: there are two kinds of these which is either a chain or a belt. However the best systems are the best because they provide a quiet performance and are strong like the chains as well. However you should make sure that the belts are the same kind as the car belts.

5 BEST ROWING MACHINES – 2020

  1. WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine in Ash Wood with S4 Monitor

SPECS:

  • Series 4 performance monitor tracks
  • Patented Water flywheel feature
  • Solid ash and stained honey oak construction
  • Enclosed water tank
  • Upright storage with 84 x 21 x 22 inches (W x H x D) in measurements
  • 117 pounds in weight
  • 1 year warranty

PERFORMANCE:

If you want to stay looking younger especially on a fitness viewpoint then this WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine is the best you can get your hands on. It has the ability to work all the 84% of your body muscle mass and will assist strengthen and tone your muscles while at the same time burning a lot more calories than any other aerobic machine would. As you are working out this device it will eliminate all the body weight from the knees, hips and ankles with very low impact but at the same time let you move the joints and limbs through a wide range of motion from entirely extended to entirely contracted. What makes all these possible is another of features like first the series 4 performance monitor that is created to assist balance technical sophistication through user-friendliness. This monitor includes up to 6 information and programming windows, 6 quick select buttons plus 3 navigation buttons that is used to assist clearly display your workout intensity, heart rate, stroke rate, duration, zone bar and distance. The monitor doesn’t only stop at that as it is very compatible along with an optional heart rate chest strap and receiver that performs through assisting the user be able to optimize the kind of workout and then be able to attain their exercise objectives. What makes this particular rowing machine very durable is that it has been handcrafted in solid ash and a stained honey oak that is able to provide top consistency of the color. This kind of wood is able to absorb vibration and sounds allowing you have a very smooth operation and quiet performance. Another feature is the dual rails that contain 4 corner wheels that are designed to assist maximize seat stability and minimize the amount of sweat buildup.  In conclusion let’s look at the frame that is built to easily flip upright so that the storage can be very handy after use.

PROS:

  • User friendly: one of the best things about owing this WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine is through its user friendly ability that is provided through the series 4 performance monitor that is created to balance the technical sophistication. Now this monitor is built with a number of things like the 6 quick selection buttons and the 3 navigation buttons that are built to present not only the intensity of your workout but also the distance, zone bar, duration, heart rate and finally stroke rate. Furthermore this monitor also very compatible with an optional heart rate chest strap as well as receiver that will assist you be able to optimize your workout and then you can achieve all your workouts objectives.
  • Works up to 84% of muscles: you know there are some bowing machines that you will get and afterwards feel like you only a particular muscle or almost none at all but this WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine is built with the advantage of it being able to work up to approximately 84% of the body muscle mass and this way assisting you tone and strengthen your muscles while burning a lot more calories as compared to other aerobic machines. This kind of exercise is low impact while eliminating all the body weight especially from the knees, angles and hips whereas still moving the joints and limbs through a full range motion.
  • Quality construction: this WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine has been handcrafted in solid ash and then stained honey oak for steadiness of color that proves it is constructed with quality. It’s kind of wood was selected because of its splendid engineering properties like for example its capability to be able to soak up sound plus vibration so that you can enjoy not only a smooth operation for a quiet performance too. This ash wood is basically a premium hardwood that has an implausible dimensional stability and prolonged existence. And that it not all because this kind of wood was collected from replenishable forest and hand completed using Danish oil to create a deep luster.

CONS:

  • Cheap foot rest: the foot rest is like rather made using some thin floppy molded plastic material and this is one of the few cons that we could find about this WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine. The problem is that the shape of this foot rest makes it kind of hard to get your shoes in and out of it and most times you have to get a hold of it. Plus another con is that the edges are quite ready sharp and that means you can get on it while juts wearing socks.

2.   Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower

SPECS:

  • LCD backlit fitness monitor
  • 12 workout programs
  • In Touch® Fitness Monitor
  • Extruded aluminum rowing beam
  • Fitness monitor
  • 44 x 30 x 11 inches in dimensions

PERFORMANCE:

If you are searching for a low impact and a total-body workout rower then you are reading the right material and allow me introduce you to this amazing Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower. This way you won’t only build your cardiovascular endurance but even reinforce and shape your quads, back, hamstrings, arms, gluts and shoulders as well. Now this Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower is an indoor rowing machine that will provide you with efficiency and as well as an effective total body workout that is able to make the most out of all the major muscle groups like the arms, legs, back, buttocks and abdominals. Please note that its performance is also very effective for maximizing your metabolism so that you achieve a more efficient calorie and fat burning without the force on your joints. It contains features like the Avari Programmable Rower that contains up to 12 programs that can be monitored while using the backlit LCD that is found in the touch fitness monitor.   These 12 workout programs include the 6 cardio profiles, 4 custom user programs, 1 manual and finally 1 heart rate program. This fitness monitor will also greatly motivate you through tracking the time, calories, distance, count, pulse, stroke per minute and finally watt. Then there is the chest strap that is very effectual while using the target heart rate program and it can be used during any of the programs. However what attracted me most to this rowing machine was or is the 7 preset programs that are found on it and have the main purpose of automatically being able to adjust the magnetic tension allowing it to take full advantage of your cardiovascular workout without any sort of interruption. The seat is molded while the extruded aluminum beam performs through ensuring a smooth movement through the drive and the revival stages of your stroke.

PROS:

  • Fitness monitor: this Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower is built with a fitness monitor so that the user won’t have to do guesswork anymore about the track of their fitness. This fitness monitor is designed to assist you keep motivated because you will be able to track the time, strokes per minute, distance, count, pulse, calories and the watt. This way you will know if you need to put in more effort to achieve your fitness goal or if you are pushing so hard and need to slow down a little bit. Using this monitor track you can also be able to consult with a training specialist for an experts view.
  • 12 workout programs: this Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower is constructed with up to 12 workout programs that are very great for every kind of user including the beginners as you get a guide on the fitness exercises and this way you will be able to switch into different exercise for the different body parts. These programs include 6 cardio profiles, 4 custom user programs, 1 manual and then finally 1 heart rate program. You can conveniently and clearly monitor these programs while using the LCD backlit that is found on the Touch fitness monitor.
  • Low-impact aerobic exercise: this Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower is probably one of the most successful low-impact aerobic exercises that you will find out there that is used to maximize your metabolism so that you can always achieve a much more efficient calorie as well as burning of fat without any impact caused to your joints. This way when you are finished with the routine, you will remain healthy and stress free without any high impact caused especially on the joints.
  • User-friendly: what makes this Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower very user friendly is the up and down arrows among other things. This up and down arrows is found on the In Touch® Fitness Monitor and they will easily let you make adjustments on your workout time and even resistance on the fly. Through this way you be able to easily make adjustments even in the middle of your fitness routine without having to first stop or get off it.

CONS:

  • Poor quality foot straps: the foot straps of this Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower are unfortunately made using very thin material that is of high quality. This therefore is not very comfortable around the foot and won’t be very durable due to its thin nature that can easily get damaged.

3.   Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5

SPECS:

  • 14 inch seat height
  • Flywheel design
  • Performance monitor 5
  • Backlit display screen
  • Caster wheels
  • Easily separates into two pieces
  • Adjustable footrests
  • Nickel-plated chain
  • Overall length of 96 in (244 cm), width of 24 in (61 cm) and Seat height of 14 in (36 cm)
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Requires 9 x 4 feet of foot print
  • 5 year frame warranty
  • 500 pound capacity

PERFORMANCE:

Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is constructed with the kind of performance that is dependable at all times and that is why it has been made the best selling indoor rower in the entire world. It is constructed to provide an effective cardiovascular workout that is able to boost your fitness level and even tone your entire physique. It is built with feature like the performance monitor 5 that is created to let the user be able to track data like for example the distance, calories burned, speed, watts and pace easily. This unit is able to provide you with an precise as well as a comparable data for every single row.  It also features a backlit display screen that is able to illuminate automatically once you start working out to let you easily and clearly monitor your progress and track your workout. It also comes with a menu that is very user-friendly and it will assist you be able to manage the wide range of the features like for example preset workouts, multiple languages and games as well.  However what impressed me most is its compatibility with USB flash drive that lets you easily transfer the data either to your MAC or PC and this way letting the storage of your workout very simple. Furthermore you can also wirelessly be able to monitor your heart rate through the ANT + and Bluetooth smart connectivity. On the other hand the adjustable monitor arm found on this Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine will let you be able to properly position the monitor in a place that you prefer. The ergonomic handle is very comfortable and is built with a 10° bend that lets you row while using a natural arm and hand position. Then the spiral damper is created to let the user adjust the air flow easily while the flywheel design will provide a top smooth feel while reducing on the noise.

PROS:

  • Performance monitor 5: this Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is constructed with a performance monitor 5 that makes it very different from all the other training tools that you will come across. It is very advanced and will provide every single user with a lot of ease to use it. However the most beneficial factor about this monitor is that it is able to provide very accurate and comparable date for each row. It also contains an adjustable monitor arm that will allow you be able to place the monitor in a location that you prefer.
  • Easy storage and movement: storing and moving this Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is just a snap because of some features that it has been constructed with. First it contains a quick release frame lock mechanism that doesn’t require any tools but is created to let you easily separate the device into two pieces to allow a simple storage especially when you have limited space available. When it comes to easy mobility, the caster wheels that are placed at the front foot will let you simply roll this machine into position without you having to lift the entire weight.
  • Provides user will full control: this Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is able to provide you the user with total full control through the flywheel and the damper. This way the machine will be able to react to the effort you make with every stroke so that you take complete charge of all your physical exertion and resistance every single time. It does this through the flywheel design that is designed to reduce all the noise with an improved smooth feel and then also using the spiral damper you will be able to easily adjust the airflow to the flywheel so that the feel of the stroke is what exactly you prefer.

CONS:

  • Hard seat: the seat of this Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is constructed with very firm rubber material and for that reason it will therefore provide a hard seat feel to the body. This will only be uncomfortable when you have just placed on body on it but eventually you will get comfortable as you work out. Unless you are the kind that requires a very soft cushioned seat on the rowing machine.

4.   Stamina Air Rower 

SPECS:

  • Multi-function performance monitor
  • Wind-resistance
  • Folds for storage with dimensions of 48 L by 18 W by 28 H inches
  • Padded and upholstered seat
  • Monitor
  • Large footplates
  • Built-in wheels
  • Angles and over sized seat rail
  • 90 days parts warranty and 3 year frame warranty
  • Nylon rowing strap
  • Floor protectors prevent skidding
  • Sturdy steel frame construction
  • Maximum user weight of 250 pounds
  • Assembled dimensions of 77 L by 18 W by 22 H

PERFORMANCE:

Stamina Air Rower is constructed with features among which you might not easily come across in other competing models that makes its performance a difference with greatness. Straightforward is the wind-resistance feature that is created to bring forth a very comfortable and yet challenging rowing workout. This way it will be able to let you decide the resistance intuitively and this means that the faster and harder you row the greater the resistance will be. Now this is how to obtain a low impact and yet full body fitness in the comfort of your own home.  Another great performance is through the built-in multi-function monitor that is able to display the calories burned, distance, time and speed as you continuously workout. This way you can easily keep track of all the progress that you make and get motivated to accomplish your fitness goals. Then there is an over-sized, angled seat rail along with the smooth sliding seat that is constructed to provide you with an easy seat return. While the seat which is padded and upholstered will ensure that you have maximum comfort always with no discomfort caused especially from firm seats. On the other hand it also contains textured grips that are constructed to provide a very stable and secure grip while you are busy rowing. Another feature created with excellence on this Stamina Air Rower is through the larger footplates as well as adjustable nylon foot straps that are able to carry or accommodate any size of the user especially within the maximum user weight of 250 pounds. It is constructed with a steel frame that is able to easily fold when not in use and then rolled away while using the wheels that are constructed on it. Now along that are the floor protectors that are constructed to prevent skidding and they are made using rubber material.

PROS:

  • Wind-resistance: this Stamina Air Rower is constructed with a wind resistance feature that is able to make available a very comfortable and yet at the same time challenging rowing workout experience. If you make use of this wind resistance feature then you will be able to establish the resistance intuitively. Like for example if you go much faster and harder while rowing then that means you will also have a greater resistance and if you go slower and softer while rowing then in the same way you will have a lower resistance.
  • Electronic performance monitor: you will enjoy this great electronic performance monitor feature that is found on this Stamina Air Rower machine that is designed to assist you be able to track your fitness and this way even be motivated to acquire your set fitness goals. This electronic performance monitor will display speed, amount of calories burned, the distance traveled and finally the time.
  • Provides a smooth operation: this Stamina Air Rower machine is able to provide you with a very smooth operation at all times. This is helped by the oversized, angled seat rail and smooth sliding seat that is able to provide you with a very simple seat return. This seat has been constructed with pads as well as an upholstered so that you enjoy its comfort along with textured grips created to provide you with a very stable and secure grip as you row.
  • Simple storage: if you have very limited house space and want a rowing machine that will provide you with a easy storage and movement then this Stamina Air Rower machine will work perfectly for you. This is because it is constructed with the ability to easily fold to a more compact size for storage then it’s also got built-in wheels that provide effortless portability. While moving and using it, you almost won’t skid due to the floor protectors constructed on it.

CONS:

  • A little loud fan: unfortunately the fan that is constructed on this Stamina Air Rower machine produces some minimal sound while it is being operated. This sound is not very loud and can mainly only be heard during the dead silence of the night. I personally don’t mind this sound because it is very minimal and doesn’t prevent me from hearing my music or watching the television.

5.   Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower

SPECS:

  • Built-in Heart rate monitor chest strap
  • 12 programs including manual and 6 pre-set
  • Electronic tension control
  • Drum magnetic control system
  • Large PU molded saddle
  • Anodized aluminum profile
  • Foldable
  • Rectangular tubing support
  • 275 lbs maximum weight capacity

PERFORMANCE:

When you use this exceptional Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower, you will always have an effective cardio workout while in the convenience of your own personal space at home. First of all it contains a unique feature known as the Drum Magnetic Control (DRM) that operates while making use of the electronic tension control to assist you adjust the resistance to what is more suitable for you.  This way you will have enough optimal friction that is required to build the muscle strength as well as augment stamina. If you want to keep your workout in track then you will make use of the larger and easy to read LCD display that is used to help monitor your time, strokes per minute, calories burned, count, pulse and even calories. Through the smooth magnetic resistance operation, this rower will aid you to improve on your skills for rowing.  What got me more interested in this rowing machine are the 6 preset workouts and a manual program that is built on it to let you have various workout programs that you can select from. The saddle is very large in size and it has been constructed using polyurethane that is folded perfectly so that you can achieve maximum comfort that will keep your lower-back muscles free from stress. Then there is the aluminum beam that contains a rectangular tubing support.  This Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower is built with a design that is able to fold easily and this way it will reduce to a more compact and smaller design that will let you save much more space. In order to move this rowing machine from one room to the other or even to the car, then you will have to make use of the built-in transportation wheels that lets you move it without lifting the entire weight.

PROS:

  • Quality build: this Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower is constructed with a sturdy aluminum frame that extends in a outward design and then it accommodates the ergonomically built molded foam padded seat that is important as it will maintain your back especially the lower back muscles from any stress caused usually from uncomfortable and extremely firm or soft seats. Then furthermore is the foot pedals built using non-slip material and therefore constructed to provide a lot more balance and then make certain that the user maintains a perfect position while working out.
  • LCD display: another advantage of this Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower is through the LCD display that is able to allow you easily monitor the various parameters like the pulse rate, number of counts, the time taken, the calories burnt and so on. This LCD display actually contains a very clear display that lets you easily see the data without having to get a lot closer to the display and even the data on it is very easy to understand without needing a specialist to interpret for you.
  • Drum Magnetic Control System (DMC): this Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower is built with a DMC system that works with an electronic tension control that is able to let you adjust the resistance. Through this you can work with the resistance that you find more appropriate for you and your muscles strengthening.
  • Smooth and quiet workout: this Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower is constructed to allow the user operate it smoothly through its user friendly control unit and then also operate quietly so that you are not disturbed or disturb others with your noise as you work out. Most of the operations are activated using a single press after startup up which means it easy for all kinds of people to use it including first-timers. With this quiet operation you can tune up your favorite music or even television program and watch it as you continue achieving your fitness goal. What makes this quiet performance actually possible is through the combination of the magnetic drum along with the nylon belt that lets you have the kind of quietness that is whisper silent.

CONS:

  • No on/off switch: this Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower is not constructed with an on/off switch which isn’t really a big deal but considering that it is much easier to use as compared to the pulling of the power adapter makes it a con that this machine doesn’t include it. This means that if you have finished and want to turn it off then you have to pull the power adapter or just leave it unattended and after a while it will go off automatically which might be dangerous especially when you have children in the house.

****OUR BEST CHOICE****

WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine in Ash Wood with S4 Monitor

[See price on Amazon]

WHAT MAKES WATER ROWER NATURAL MACHINE OUR BEST CHOICE?

  • An enclosed water tank
  • 6 information and programming windows
  • A patented water flywheel system
  • 6 quick select buttons
  • Series 4 performance monitor tracks
  • 3 navigation buttons
  • Solid ash and stained honey oak construction
  • User friendly
  • Full body workout machine
  • Quiet performance
  • 4 corner wheels
  • Space saving with an Upright storage
  • A full year warranty
  • Compact size

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This marks the end of this detailed review on the ‘’Best Rowing Machine’. Bookmark this post for future reference.

Vanilla Farmer, Amazon Retailer & Tech Researcher. Yosaki is my personal blog but I'm working on some big tech project back doors. I will keep on posting various topics on things I have knowledge about.