Rowing machines gained huge popularity for home workouts over the past few years, becoming a top seller in exercise equipment stores. People quickly discovered these rowing machines give them amazing workouts from head to toe, driving sales higher each month. A quality rowing machine fits perfectly in your home gym, helping both longtime athletes and first-time exercisers get fit. Our detailed review covers the top 5 rowing machines of 2005, showing you exactly what to look for in your next rower.
Why Choose a Rowing Machine for Your Home Gym?
Your rowing machine works 86% of your body’s muscles in one smooth motion, giving you both cardio and strength gains during each workout. Many fitness fans choose rowing machines because these workouts stay gentle on joints while building real strength and stamina. The right rower helps people at every fitness level get stronger, making a rowing machine worth every penny for your home gym.
Understanding Different Types of Rowing Machines
Different rowing machines use several ways to create resistance during your workout. Air-based models like the Concept2 respond to your power – pull harder and they resist more. Magnetic rowers run quietly and let you set exact resistance levels. Water-filled rowers feel just like rowing on a lake, while hydraulic rowing machines fit into small spaces perfectly.
Your perfect rowing machine depends on what you want from your workouts and how much room you have at home. Looking at how each type works helps you pick the rower that matches your workout style and space.
Features to Consider When Choosing Your Rowing Machine
Your ideal rowing machine needs to match several key points. Pick the right resistance type and strength levels for your workouts both now and as you get stronger. Look for solid construction that holds up through years of daily use. Check your available floor space and storage room at home. Many rowers now track your progress and connect to workout videos.
Check the weight limits to stay safe, read the warranty details to protect your purchase, and compare prices to features on each model. Looking at all these points helps you get the best rower for your money.
Reviews of 2005’s Top 5 Rowing Machines
1. Concept2 RowErg: The Gold Standard in Rowing Machines
We tested many rowing machines for hours, and the Concept2 RowErg beats every other rower by far. Top rowing clubs worldwide choose this machine because it works so well. You’ll feel its rock-solid construction from your very first pull on the handle.
The PM5 Performance Monitor makes this rower really shine. This advanced screen measures your workout with incredible precision – no rough guesses like cheaper models give you. You see your exact power, speed, and stroke count on the bright screen, even in dark rooms. Plug in a USB drive and save all your rowing data to study later.
The RowErg’s special air-resistance wheel gives you that real water-rowing feeling. Turn the resistance dial from 1 to 10 to match your strength level – new rowers and Olympic athletes both get the perfect workout. Most people love settings 4-5, which feel just like rowing on a lake.
Pros
- Built tough and lasts for years
- Best workout tracking screen available
- Pulls smooth and steady every time
- Full warranty protection
- Huge group of users helping each other
- Works with many workout apps
Cons
- Costs more than other rowers
- Makes noise when rowing hard
- Could use better seat padding
2. Hydrow Wave: The Smart Rowing Machine
Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine with 16" HD Touchscreen & Speakers | Home Workouts for Cardio and Strength, Electromagnetic Drag, Foldable | Pirate Black,...
The Hydrow Wave brings a fresh take on home rowing by mixing real rowing feel with the latest tech features. We rowed many miles on this machine and found it works far better than other smart fitness gear. This full workout system changes how people exercise at home.
The huge 22-inch HD touchscreen shows crystal-clear video at 1920 x 1080. You see everything perfectly from any angle thanks to special glare-blocking coating. Real rowing scenes mixed with your workout numbers make every session feel like rowing outdoors, pulling you back to the machine day after day.
The smart resistance system adjusts 240 times each second using electromagnets – no clunky mechanical parts. You get butter-smooth resistance that matches your effort instantly. Best of all, it runs so quietly that early morning workouts won’t wake anyone up.
Pros
- Fun, interactive rowing videos
- Runs smooth and quiet
- Built strong and solid
- Great trainer-led workouts
- Fits in tight spaces
Cons
- Monthly fees for best features
- Costs more upfront
- Must have internet to use fully
3. Echelon Row: The Connected Fitness Contender
Echelon Fitness - Rowing Machine | Home Workout Equipment | Foldable Rowing Machine | 32 Resistance Levels | Touch Screen & Bluetooth Controller | 30-Day...
The Echelon Row gives you high-tech workouts without breaking the bank. This rower costs less than the Hydrow Wave but packs plenty of great features. The strong metal frame stays rock-solid even during tough rowing sessions.
A big 22-inch HD screen shows all your workout videos and numbers. The picture looks good enough to follow every move your trainer makes, though pricier rowers have sharper screens. We really liked how the screen spins all the way around – perfect for floor exercises when you want a break from rowing.
The magnetic system gives you 32 different resistance levels, running smooth and quiet the whole time. Resistance changes click right into place, though fancy electromagnetic rowers let you make smaller adjustments. Still, these resistance levels work great for everyone from first-timers to serious athletes.
Pros
- Lower price than competitors
- 32 resistance choices
- Folds up small
- Lots of workout videos
- Runs quiet and smooth
Cons
- Needs paid membership
- Some parts made of plastic
- Picture quality OK but not great
4. Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine
Our long-term tests of affordable rowing machines show the Sunny Health & Fitness Compact rower gives you great workouts without spending big money. This rower packs real quality into a small package that fits nicely in most homes.
The magnetic resistance comes with eight different levels. While simple compared to expensive rowers, it runs smooth and quiet every time. New rowers and regular exercisers get good workouts, though serious athletes might want more challenge. The seat glides along just as smooth as pricey machines.
The simple LCD screen shows just what you need – no fancy extras. You see your workout time, stroke count, calories, and total strokes right there in clear numbers. The screen stays easy to read in bright or dim rooms, helping you track your progress day after day.
Pros
- Great bang for your buck
- Saves space and stores easy
- Runs whisper quiet
- Easy to use right away
- Hardly needs any upkeep
Cons
- Basic workout tracking only
- Just eight resistance levels
- Short warranty time
- Holds up to 250 pounds max
5. WaterRower Walnut Rowing Machine: The Aesthetic Champion
The WaterRower Walnut looks like fine furniture while giving you amazing workouts at home. We rowed countless hours on this machine and found its handmade walnut wood frame works just as beautifully as it looks. This rower turns heads in any room.
The water tank makes every pull feel just like rowing on a real lake. Your strokes flow smooth and natural – pull harder and the resistance grows with you. Water splashing in the tank sounds so peaceful that you’ll want to row longer, making workouts fly by.
The S4 screen shows your basic workout numbers plus training zones and saved programs, though learning all the buttons takes practice. The water resistance adjusts by itself – no dials to turn, just row faster when you want more challenge.
Pros
- Looks like fine furniture
- Rows like a real boat
- Runs super quiet
- Works for any fitness level
- No power cord needed
Cons
- Costs more than most
- Needs water checks
- Simple workout screen
- Weighs quite a bit
Maintaining Your Rowing Machine
Keep your rowing machine running smoothly with basic upkeep. Wipe down the rail and rollers after workouts to stop dirt from building up. Check all bolts monthly to keep everything tight, and oil moving parts so they run quiet. Water rowers need right water levels and cleaning tablets to stay fresh. Store your rower properly, folding it up to save space if your model allows.
Tips for Getting the Most from Your Rowing Machine
Start with rowing videos or grab a trainer to get the moves right. Do a little more rowing each week as your muscles build up. Some days row fast and hard, other days take it slow and steady – this keeps workouts fun and your body getting stronger. Your workout numbers on the screen help you see how much better you get each week.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Your Perfect Rowing Machine
Your perfect rowing machine boils down to three things: how you plan to use it, the space in your home, and your budget.
Each rower we tested shines in its own way, from the top-end Concept2 to the wallet-friendly Sunny Health & Fitness. Think about your long-term fitness plans before buying. Spending more upfront often saves money later since better rowers last longer.
Pick a rowing machine you’ll actually use every week. Look for one that fits your space, matches how you like to work out, and helps you stick to your fitness plan. Whether you pick a fancy smart rower or a simple magnetic one, using it regularly and taking good care of it helps you get fit.
Choose a rower that makes you want to work out and holds up to daily use. Think about noise if you row early or late, measure your space carefully, and pick features that keep you rowing. The right rowing machine gives you years of great workouts that build strength and stamina.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rowing Machines
Q: How much space do I need for a rowing machine?
A: Your rowing machine needs about 9 feet by 4 feet (2.7m x 1.2m) of floor space. Many newer rowers fold up to half their size for storage. Add some extra room around your rower so you can get on and off easily.
Q: Are rowing machines suitable for beginners?
A: Yes – rowing machines work great for new exercisers. These give you total body workouts without jarring your joints, and you control how hard you work. New rowers come with clear guides and training videos. Start slow with good form, then bump up the challenge as you get stronger.
Q: How often should I maintain my rowing machine?
A: Clean the seat track and handle after each workout. Different rowers need different care: oil air rower chains monthly, change water rower tanks every 3-6 months, while magnetic rowers need the least work. Your owner’s manual lists exact care steps for your model.
Q: What’s the difference between air and magnetic resistance?
A: Air rowers push back harder the faster you pull, just like real boats. They feel more real but make more noise. Magnetic rowers stay quiet and let you pick exact resistance levels that don’t change with speed. Both give great workouts – serious rowers love air resistance, while home users often pick magnetic for the quiet.
Q: Can rowing machines help with weight loss?
A: Rowing machines burn lots of fat by working your heart and muscles at once. Row at medium effort for 30 minutes and burn 200-300 calories. Push harder and burn even more. Mix regular rowing with healthy eating to drop pounds faster.
Q: How long do rowing machines typically last?
A: Your rowing machine life depends on quality and care. Top models like Concept2 run 10-20 years when well-maintained. Mid-range rowers last 5-10 years, basic ones 3-5 years. Good care and proper use make any rower last longer.
Q: Should I buy a rowing machine with a screen or without?
A: Think about what keeps you motivated. Screens show live classes, workout stats, and training programs to keep rowing fun, but cost more and often need monthly fees. Basic rowers cost less and work just fine, especially if you stay motivated on your own or use your phone for entertainment.
