Incorporating aerobic cardio into your exercise routine is a key part of weight loss and maintaining your health. A rowing machine is an excellent way to get the same cardio effect as a treadmill or an elliptical by incorporating your entire body into a smooth fluid motion.
Rowing machines are known as ergometer machines that test your exertion by using specific muscle groups. With rowers, your workout progress is measured by the effort of your arms and legs while you remain stationary in a seated position.
If you're considering getting a rower for your home gym, we've researched some of the best water rowing machines on the market.
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How do Water Rowers Work?
Water rowing machines are increasing in popularity due to their health benefits. Water rowers have a rather simple set-up that contains a flywheel (or paddle) that’s housed in a water tank. The flywheel is connected to a cable and handlebar, allowing you to pull back on the cable and move the flywheel.
The resistance of this motion gives you an excellent upper body workout. By incorporating your legs and arms in one fluid motion, you can pull and push back even harder, increasing your speed and the distance measured by a single row.
Water Rowers Compared
Image | Product | Max Seat Height | Max User Weight | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
WaterRower Club | 19 in. | 700 lbs | ||
No products found. | Mr. Rudolf Oak Wood | - | 320 lbs. | |
WaterRower Ash | 22 in. | 1,000 lbs. | ||
First Degree Fitness Apollo Pro II | 21 Inches | 330 lbs. | ||
XTERRA Fitness ERG600W | 13 ½ In. | 300 lbs. | ||
GOPLUS | Max 10-degree incline | 220 lbs. | ||
Merax | 16 in. | 330 lbs. | ||
Incline Fit Wood | 21 In. | 275 lbs. | ||
First Degree Fitness Newport | 20 in. | 300 lbs. |
Types of Rowing Machines
Water Rowing Machines
The water rowers give you a smooth and strong resistance. As you move the paddles by pulling back on the handlebar, you create a force and drag that results in resistance based on your own strength. The faster you row, the more drag and force you must overcome to keep moving.
Air Rowing Machines
Air rowing machines also offer a smooth rowing stroke, closely mimicking the resistance you would feel rowing on actual water. Rather than relying on moving water, air rowers create drag and force by moving air. A fan flywheel moves as you pull on the cable, and the resistance levels are based on your strength and how much air drag you create.
Magnetic Rowing Machines
With a magnetic rowing machine, magnets are built into the flywheel, creating resistance as you row. The magnets control the drag in this type of machine, and you can set the resistance level to meet your fitness needs. No matter how hard or fast you row, the resistance level will not change unless you manually select something more challenging.
Hydraulic Rowing Machines
With a hydraulic rower, fluid-filled cylinders are engaged when you pull back. The resistance of each cylinder can be adjusted to accommodate different levels or how hard you wish to make your workout. Some of these machines have stationary seats, while others have sliding seats to give you a full-body experience.
3 Benefits of Water Driven Rowers
- 1Low Impact
While other cardio equipment can be low-impact, water rowing machines are special. They offer a great workout with nearly zero impact on knee and elbow joints since you control the level of resistance. This means you can get a great workout without tiring your joints, especially if you have arthritis in these areas. - 2Increases Endurance
If you're working out to increase your long-term endurance, a rowing machine is exactly what you need. It works for all muscle groups, and after daily use, you'll notice a difference in your strength and ability to maintain a workout for a more extended period of time. Higher endurance can boost your metabolism and energy overall. - 3Calorie Burn
Studies have shown that consistent rowing for 30 minutes or more can burn nearly 200 calories. The harder you row, the harder your body works to burn more calories. A water rowing machine can burn a significant number of calories when used regularly and in conjunction with other exercises.
Choosing a Quality Water Rowing Machine
Size vs. Workout Space in the Home
If you're looking for the best workout with the best equipment for your home gym, then you know that taking the size of the room into consideration is essential. You'll want to find the right size machine for your room based on its length. If you get a machine that's too long for the room, you won't be able to utilize how you'd like. Measure the room and consider those dimensions when picking out a machine.
Comfort and Adjustability
While rowing machines are perfect for low-impact exercises, it still needs to feel comfortable to you and your movements. Find a machine that has a comfortable seat that can be adjusted for your height. This allows you to maintain accurate speed and power while seated for a complete workout. You should also find handles that fit comfortably in your hands, as well as foot pedals that have adjustable foot straps for different shoe sizes.
Durability/Max User Weight
It's essential to your fitness goals that a rowing machine be durable. A flimsy unit can make working out challenging, and you'll probably avoid using it. You should look for a machine that's made out of sturdy materials and has a durable water tank, support legs, and pulling cable. The more durable and sturdier a rowing machine is, the more likely it is to hold a higher max user weight, giving you more comfort and stability regardless of what the scale says.
Storage Features
Storing a water rowing machine doesn't have to be complicated. If you don't have the space for one to sit out, then look for a foldable model or on wheels. This will give you the chance to tuck it neatly in a closet and roll it around if you need to move it from one room to another one. These two features will give you flexibility and more options when it comes to reaching fitness goals.
Noise Level
Noise level is often a concern when looking for a new piece of equipment. With a water rowing machine, you'll hear some splashing of the water inside the tank, but these machines are often quieter than the fans of an air rowing machine. If you live in a second-floor apartment or intend to keep this equipment in your bedroom, the less noise, the better so you don't wake the neighbors or other sleeping in your home.
Display Monitor and Functionality
Display monitors come with a variety of features and measurements. With low-end models, basic functions such as meter distance and speed are measured. With high-end models, you might see displays that measure heart rate, distance, calorie burn, time, and speed. You should consider your fitness goals and how each of these metrics can help give you a clearer picture of your endurance and power.
Ease of Assembly
Assembly of your rowing machine should be easy. You should always read the instructions, but some models have little to no assembly required. If you don’t have a lot of spare time to set up a piece of equipment, take this into consideration. Does the unit come as a whole or in several different parts? You’ll also want to make sure you have the necessary tools at home to put one of these machines together.
Price
Workout equipment and building a home gym is an investment. This guide aims at helping you pick out the best water rowing machines for the best price. While price often plays a role in the quality of the machine, it’s not always an indicator that it’s the best machine. You should identify your budget and make sure that you find a great machine within that price range. You’ll likely save money and be happy with your rower.
Warranty
When viewing warranty information, make sure you know exactly what is covered and for how long. Essential functions and materials should be included for a length of time, but each manufacturer is different. Make sure to read the information that comes with your machine and register your equipment if necessary.
9 Best Water Rowing Machines Reviewed
1. WaterRower Club
Size (Length) | 6 ft. 10 ¼ in. |
Max Seat Height | 19 inches |
Weight (of Machine) | 66.5 lbs. (dry); 103.5 lbs. (wet) |
Adjustable Resistance | No |
Max User Weight | 700 lbs |
Warranty | Yes; Parts—3 years, Frame—5 Years |
As the top water rowing machine on our list, the WaterRower Club rower is hand-crafted and stained to give you a two-tone machine that’s sturdy and can handle even your toughest rowing workout. Specifically made to withstand high-traffic areas, this solid rowing machine is perfect for multiple users in your home gym. This machine also gives users a dual-height adjustment with the option to raise or lower the legs.
This machine is full of features that include a home training DVD, S4 performance monitor, and front wheels for easy storage or mobility. With the S4 monitor, you'll be able to keep track of time, distance, speed/intensity, stroke rate, and heart rate, all displayed right in front of you. When you're done, simply roll the machine away and store upright against the wall or in a closet for safekeeping.
The wood chosen and crafted to make this machine is used due to its ability to absorb noise and vibration as you row. If you're looking for a machine that's naturally quiet and won't disturb family members or apartment neighbors, then this machine is right for you.
When you buy a WaterRower Club rowing machine, you’ll enjoy an easy assembly. The machine comes with all the instructions you need, as well as online tutorials found right on WaterRower’s website.
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2. Mr. Rudolf Oak Wood
No products found.
Size (Length) | 6 ft |
Max Seat Height | - |
Weight (of Machine) | 58.5 lbs |
Adjustable Resistance | No |
Max User Weight | 320 lbs |
Warranty | Yes: Frame Only-1 year |
The Mr. Rudolf Oak Wood rower is one of the best water resistance rowing machines on the market that can give you the best workout to burn all that fat. With all the features of expensive models, this rower will make you excited to use it every day during your workouts. It's perfect for at home and is just six feet long, making it ideal for that spare bedroom turned home gym.
Solid oak wood is skillfully crafted to give you a water rower that's designed in the shape of a boat, giving you a real-life water rowing experience for a superior workout. It also rests on two wheels that make it easy to tilt upright and store in a closet or against the wall so you can enjoy different floor exercises without having to work around your rower.
The Mr. Rudolf Oak Wood rowing machine ranks high on the list of the best water rowing machines because it’s easy to use and has a display monitor that allows you to track everything about your workout. You’ll be able to see your strokes per minute, calories burned per hour, watts, and distance. You can even keep track of a 500-meter split time if you want to race against yourself.
When using a rower, comfort can make all the difference in your workout. With this machine, you'll enjoy an ergonomic seat, height-adjustable footplates, and an active recoil system that allows you to smoothly row through your workout and set new personal best records with ease.
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3. WaterRower Ash
Size (Length) | 7 ft |
Max Seat Height | 22 inches |
Weight (of Machine) | 117 lbs |
Adjustable Resistance | No |
Max User Weight | 1,000 lbs |
Warranty | Yes: Frame—5 years; Components—3 years |
Similar to the Club, the WaterRower Ash machining is handcrafted from solid ash wood and stained with a honey color to bring out the natural look of the wood and give you a sturdy machine that looks great in your home. With an enclosed flywheel water tank, you get a great workout with self-resistance training, targeting all of your upper body and back muscles.
With an S4 monitoring system, you can track your workout through intensity levels, stroke rate, heart rate, time, and distance. Challenge yourself with time-distance or compete with your personal records to build endurance and a more efficient rowing technique.
The initial warranty of a WaterRower Ash machine is one year, but this manufacturer will upgrade you to a warranty that covers the frame for five years and the components for three years. All you have to do is fill out an additional registration form and send it in for the upgraded coverage on your machine.
Because of the materials used and its construction design, this rower is one of the best water rowing machines with a high max user weight. Capable of supporting more than one thousand pounds, you can rest easy knowing that this machine can handle your fastest and hardest aerobic workout.
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4. First Degree Fitness Apollo Pro II
Size (Length) | 7 ft |
Max Seat Height | 21 Inches |
Weight (of Machine) | 79 lbs |
Adjustable Resistance | Yes: 4 levels with variable fluid resistance |
Max User Weight | 330 lbs |
Warranty | Yes: Frame—10 years; Tank & Seals—3 years; Mechanical Components—2 years; All Other Components—1 year |
Searching for the best water resistance rowing machine doesn’t need to be difficult. If you’re looking for a new way to exercise at home, but don’t want to settle for just any water rower, then the First Degree Fitness Apollo Pro II is the machine for you. With four different resistance levels, you’ll enjoy fluid innovation progression as you work up to the highest level. Rowing has long been named as one of the best aerobic exercises, burning more calories in 30 minutes than any other machine. This rower proves that’s possible.
The rapid recoil system gives you a smooth and fluid rowing form, and you'll be able to measure everything on this machine's multi-level computer monitoring system. Watch as your time, distance, stroke rate, calories burned, watts, and heart rate increase with each stroke. Ergonomic handles make it possible to stay engaged in your workout without the worry of blisters.
With one of the best warranties on our list, the First Degree rower has you covered for at least the next ten years. Built from a solid wood frame, you can rest assured that should it fail, you'll be covered. First Degree also stands behind their twin tank design, covering it for three years and offering two years of coverage on all other components of this rower.
Built-in transportation wheels make this machine easy to wheel around and store in a closet or under the bed. Designed with both the home gym and health club in mind, First Degree ensures that you can move this machine around anywhere you are.
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5. XTERRA Fitness ERG600W
Size (Length) | 6 ft. ¾ in. |
Max Seat Height | 13 ½ Inches |
Weight (of Machine) | 82.7 lbs |
Adjustable Resistance | Yes: 6 resistance levels |
Max User Weight | 300 lbs |
Warranty | Yes: Frame—5 years; Parts—2 years; Labor—90 days. |
Burning out in your workout routine can kill your motivation. By incorporating a rowing machine into your home gym, you’ll be able to mix things up and still get a great full-body workout. With the XTERRA Fitness ERG600W machine, you’ll be getting the best cardio workout along with muscle toning and strengthening.
With the "Zen-like" water movement in the tank, you'll glide through each stroke with ease. You can enjoy various challenges that include six resistance levels, racing against the computer, and time, stroke, or calorie countdowns. All of this is done with multi-blade impellers that give you the soothing sound of actually rowing on the water.
The smooth rowing motion is natural with the XTERRA Fitness ERG600W, making it a top choice on our list of the best water rowing machines. You can also adjust the foot pedals to your shoe size and secure your feet in place with large, flexible Velcro straps. Ergonomic handles make for easy gripping and pulling through each stroke.
Size vs. Workout Space in the Home
If you’re looking for a sleek and easy to maneuver machine, this is the one for you. Standing at just a little over six feet tall, this machine can easily be stored in any home gym or closet when it’s not in use. Because of its sleek metal frame, you can easily store other gym equipment underneath or easily workout around it.
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6. GOPLUS
Size (Length) | 6 ft. 7 in. |
Max Seat Height | Max 10-degree incline |
Weight (of Machine) | 70 lbs |
Adjustable Resistance | No |
Max User Weight | 220 lbs |
Warranty | Yes: Full machine—3 years |
If your home gym space is limited, but you still feel like you’re missing something in your cardio workout, the GOPLUS water rowing machine is perfect for you. With a sleek aluminum foldable frame, this machine is packed full of everything you need to get a great full-body workout. The alloy beam is rust-resistant, leaving you to worry less about maintenance and more about getting a smooth rowing exercise every time. As with many rowers, the resistance level of the GOPLUS relies on the amount of water in the tank. Less water equals less resistance.
The large LCD monitor displays all you need to know to keep you motivated through your entire workout. You’ll keep track of your fitness journey through count per minute, time, calories burned, and distance. You’ll even keep track of your heart rate through the separate chest belt monitoring system that’s included. You can further keep track of your fitness goals by connecting the machine to your phone through an app.
Budget-friendly machines are often at the forefront of decision making. That’s why the GOPLUS rower makes our list of the best water rowing machines on the market. You’ll enjoy a fully equipped machine for less than $500.
You’ll enjoy being comfortable being seated on the PU seat that glides smoothly over the center rail. You can also adjust the large foot pedals to fit a variety of shoe sizes, so you’re strapped in tight to help target muscles in your legs and lower body.
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7. Merax
Size (Length) | 6 ft. 6 in. |
Max Seat Height | 16 inches |
Weight (of Machine) | 72 lbs |
Adjustable Resistance | No |
Max User Weight | 330 lbs |
Warranty | No |
This wouldn’t be a complete guide if we didn’t include a Merax water rowing machine review. As the most compact machine on our list, the Merax water rower comes with a solid polycarbonate water tank that’s tilted at an angle and houses a multi-blade impeller to give you extreme levels of resistance based on the water level. You’ll get a great cardio rowing workout while enjoying the soothing and low sound of water splashing in the tank.
If you’re looking for more of a challenge but with a simple setup, the Merax rower comes with a console that has two main programs: Race mode and Manual mode. In manual mode, you can start rowing and see your stats appear, or you can manually set target rates and strokes to give you a self-competitive workout.
The Merax takes it a step further and comes partially preassembled with the tank already attached to the unit. The only thing you need to attach is the seat and the rail to the frame using a simple tool kit included. In less than 30 to 40 minutes, you will be well on your way to enjoying a rowing exercise.
Constructed from durable steel, the frame of this machine is lightweight and compact, making it easy to use and store in your home gym. If you don't have a lot of space, you'll enjoy the sleek look, and built-in wheels make it easy to move from room to room.
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8. Incline Fit Wood
Size (Length) | 7 ft |
Max Seat Height | 21 Inches |
Weight (of Machine) | 53 lbs |
Adjustable Resistance | No |
Max User Weight | 275 lbs |
Warranty | Yes; Machine—1 year limited |
When considering which best water rowing machine will give you an authentic water experience, the Incline Fit Wood water rower comes to mind. With a price tag less than a thousand dollars, you’ll enjoy building muscle, burning fat and toning your body right at home.
You can easily practice proper rowing form and get a full-body workout with the ergonomic design and sturdy wood frame of the Incline Fit Wood rower. A firm seat will help keep you seated properly as you row through each stroke. You can easily keep track of all of your progress with the built-in monitor. Time yourself and keep track of strokes per minute, distance, and calorie burn per 60 minutes. The solid wood frame is stained to give it a glossy finish, making this an appealing water rower to put in your home gym.
If you’re on a budget but are still looking for a quality and sturdy machine, the Incline Fit Wood is perfect for your home gym. It’s budget-friendly, looks great, and will give you an excellent workout for the price. The monitoring display will give you all the statistics you need to compete with yourself or the other users in your home.
With built-in wheels, the Incline Fit Wood is easy to transport from room to room or store upright against the wall. Unlike other water machines, it’s sleek and has a thin water tank that keeps it stored and up out of the way if you use the same room for other purposes.
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9. First Degree Fitness Newport
Size (Length) | 6 ft. 5 in. |
Max Seat Height | 20 inches |
Weight (of Machine) | 70.55 lbs |
Adjustable Resistance? | Yes: Minimum and Maximum |
Max User Weight | 300 lbs |
Warranty | Yes: Frame—5 Years; Tank & Seals—3 Years; Mechanical Components—2 years |
Fluidity and a smooth gliding action are necessary when deciding between water rowers. If you're looking for something sleek, comfortable and that gives you the same sensation of rowing a boat, then the First Degree Fitness Newport water rowing machine is what you're looking for. With an ergonomically designed handlebar and a comfortable rowing seat, you'll be locked in for a steady and sweat workout every time.
The monitor of this rower has a level to level calorie match, which means you’ll be getting the most accurate calorie burn reading based on the resistance level. Not all rowing machines have this ability, thus giving you a less accurate idea of the calories you burn during each workout. It’s also capable of syncing with an optional heart rate monitor that you can purchase as an accessory.
The First Degree Fitness Newport rowing machine comes with one of the best and longest warranties available to rowing machines. If this is a concern for you, and you want to know what’s covered, First Degree covers the frame for five years, the tank and seals for three years, and all mechanical components for two years. If you have any issues during these time periods, but sure to reach out to them with all of your warranty paperwork and sales receipt.
Well-built and designed with every level of user in mind, the First Degree Fitness Newport water rowing machine is made from steel and anodized aluminum steel. The rail is slim and supportive, while the tank is designed to be lightweight and still give you the best rowing experience.
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Water Rowing Machine Assembly
When it comes to the assembly of your water rowing machine, you should consult with the manufacturer guide for instructions. Most machines will come equipped with all of the tools and assembly instructions you need, but additional information and guides can be found online.
You should also make sure you read how to fill the water tank and how much water the tank holds. Filling the tank too much might result in too much resistance. Not filling it enough can result in mediocre or poor workouts. This, also, can be found in the owner's manual or on some manufacturer's websites.
How to Use a Water Rowing Machine Efficiently
When getting ready to use your water rowing machine, you should always read the owner's manual that comes with your equipment and makes sure that you practice proper safety precautions. Before every workout, make sure that you stretch and are wearing the proper shoes. Your regular gym shoes will do just fine, but if shoes with more traction or grip on the bottom can always help you stay more secure in the foot pedals.
Once seated in your rower, you’ll need to adjust the shoe straps to fit your shoe size and make sure that you’re securely locked in. In your beginning stance, bend your knees and hinge at the hips so that your knees are directly over your ankles. Reach for the handlebar and grip lightly, keeping your elbows straight, shoulders relaxed and back straight. Try not to hunch over, as this can cause injury to your lower back when you get ready to pull back.
In one fluid motion, you should pull back on the handlebar while you push your legs straight, focusing all of your explosive energy on your heels. Keep the handlebar at chest level, and complete the motion by leaning back slightly, bending your elbows and pulling the bar to your chest.
To return to the starting point, straighten your elbows before pulling your knees to your chest. Repeat this motion in a swift manner and for as long as you can to complete a full-body workout on your rower.
Water Rowing Machine Workouts
For Beginners
If you’re a beginner, exercise with your rower in a way that builds endurance and gets you used to practicing the fluid motion. One such exercise might look like this:
- 1Rowing warm-up for 10 minutes with the aim of 20 strokes per minute at a low-intensity level.
- 2Increase your strokes to 22 per minute and do this for two minutes at an increased intensity level.
- 3Maintain your intensity level and increase your strokes to 24 minutes for another three minutes
- 4Cooldown by bringing your strokes down to 20 per minute and stretch immediately afterward.
You can find other beginner rowing routines and exercises online.
For Weight Loss
When it comes to using a rower machine to lose weight, consistency and duration are essential to your success. If you’re looking for a great rowing workout for weight loss, consider a routine that looks like this:
- 1Warm-up for 5 minutes with light rowing
- 2Aim for completing 5,000-7,000 meters in 30 minutes
- 330 mins, with one-minute intervals of hard rowing and two minutes easy rowing. Take two-minute breaks every 10 minutes and the resuming for the remainder of the 30 minutes.
- 4Cool down with another 5-minute light row
For Endurance
When working out, your endurance will build naturally. But if you’re looking to take this to another level with one of the best water rowing machines, consider an exercise that incorporates a stroke rate of 25 to 28 per minute. Incorporate intervals and rests like this:
- 11-minute row, 30-second rest
- 22-minute row, 60-second rest
- 33-minute row, 90-second rest
- 44-minute row, 2-minute rest
- 5Finish with a 5-minute row
Repeat this pattern for as long as you'd like, but usually, a 30- to 60-minute workout two or three times a week can help build your endurance.
For Full Body Cross Training/HIIT
Incorporating a water rowing machine into your full-body cross training or HIIT exercises is rather simple. There are a variety of ways and moves that you can do during your rowing rest periods that keep your core, legs, arms, and back engaged.
One such move would be to incorporate a corkscrew crunch or a plank pike to fully engage your core. For more inspiration, check out this list of exercises from Shape.
People also Ask (FAQs)
Which specific muscles does a water rowing machine work?
Water rowing machines work muscles throughout the entire body when used correctly. You can also target specific muscle groups based on your rowing technique, speed, and resistance.
Will a water rowing machine tone my stomach?
While using a rower, proper form, and engaging your core muscles is vital to getting a proper workout. Keeping your stomach muscles tight and flexed as you row can strengthen and tone your core muscles over time.
How many calories does a water rowing machine burn?
A 30-minute rowing workout can burn anywhere between 200-300 calories. It's a great, low-impact cardio workout, and depending on your level of intensity and resistance, you could see more calories burn the longer you row.
How long and how often should one work out on a water rowing machine?
Because rowing is low impact, it can easily be incorporated into your daily workout routine. If you don't work out daily, using the rower two or three times a week for more than 30 minutes can get you the results you're looking for.
How do water rowers compare with the concept2 air rower?
Water rowers and the concept2 air rower are similar in their resistance strength and the muscles that they work, but they do have some notable differences. Because water rowers use actual water to create resistance, you have to physically work your way up to creating a strong resistance, just like you would paddle harder if you were trying to go faster.
With the concept2air rower, you set the resistance and go. Both are an excellent choice for your rowing workout, but we think you can’t get more authentic than with a water rower.
Conclusion
After reviewing some of the best water rowing machines on the market, it’s safe to say that it all comes down to your fitness goals and preferences. Not all machines are one-size-fits-all, and this should be taken into account, especially if you have multiple home users. Still, with the right routine and the right machine, you’re almost guaranteed to have a great workout with any of these machines on our list.