7 Best Rowing Machines For Your Gym
Whether you already have a home gym or are considering building your own, a rowing machine is an absolute must! With some of the models available, you won’t even need a dedicated space. Fold your rowing machine up when you are done with your workout and it can easily fit under a bed or in a corner. There is no better way to get a full body workout than with a rowing machine, that’s for sure.
Even though rowing machines are essentially used to increase strength, you will also have the added benefit of improving your endurance. No matter which way you look at it, a rowing machine can make a huge difference to your workout routine. We’ve found the very best rowing machines for your home. Here, we will take a closer look at each and see how they compare in terms of price, durability and much more. Are you ready to pimp your home gym? Let’s get you started.
| PRODUCT | DESCRIPTION | RATING | PRICE | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
  | Concept2 Model D Indoor RowerAdvanced performance monitor | £££ | Check Price | |
  | WaterRower Home Rowing MachineAdjustable foot height settings for added comfort | £££ | Check Price | |
  | We R Sports RowX2 Magnetic Rowing Machine8 Adjustable resistance levels allow you to up your game | ££ | Check Price | |
  | JTX Freedom Air RowerFolds for easy storage | ££ | Check Price | |
  | Body Sculpture Twin Hydraulic RowerHydraulic resistance that is adjustable to suit your training requirements | £ | Check Price | |
  | JLL® R200 Luxury Home Rowing MachineTen levels of magnetic resistance to suit your workout needs | ££ | Check Price | |
  | Body Sculpture Rower and GymComplete 2-in-1 gym with a complimentary DVD | ££ | Check Price |
We R Sports RowX2 Magnetic Rowing Machine
8 Adjustable resistance levels allow you to up your game
££
Body Sculpture Twin Hydraulic Rower
Hydraulic resistance that is adjustable to suit your training requirements
£
JLL® R200 Luxury Home Rowing Machine
Ten levels of magnetic resistance to suit your workout needs
££
Row, Row, Row your Rowing Machine
Now that we’re done with the formalities and you have a better idea of each machine, we’re ready to get down and dirty with the details. Our review process is conducted meticulously to ensure we provide you with reliable information and some insights regarding our own experience with these products.
Rowing machines, depending, of course, on your needs and budget, can be on the pricey side of gym equipment. That is why we’ve included a range of different products. One of them is sure to fit perfectly in your home gym (and in your budget!).
Now, let’s get started and see what you can expect from the UK’s best rowing machines.
1. Concept2 Model D Indoor Rower
First up, we’ve got the Concept2 Model D rower. Regarding budget, this one will cost you a pretty penny. Regarding workout, it will be worth every one of them spent. The construction is sturdy and has an astonishing weight capacity of 227 kg. You also don’t need anything to get started as the rower is run by the flywheel. Adjust your resistance with the damper to reach your fitness goals.
If you are a sucker for numbers, you’ll be happy to learn that this rower is also compatible with smart devices and has a USB input. Easily keep track of your progress with the handy monitor that will gather the stats as you continue to improve your strength. If you’ve got the cash, this is the rowing machine for you!
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2. WaterRower Home Rowing Machine
Looking for something that does the job but doesn’t look the part? The WaterRower is made of Ash wood, giving it a natural feel and look. It is right behind the Model D regarding cost but is still a great piece of equipment. It comes with a 3-year warranty, making it a reliable machine that’s worth checking out.
Even though it is a bit bulky for storage, it is still great and offers you an overall fantastic full body workout. The machine works by way of water resistance, so you can expect smooth movement and a comfortable workout. It looks great, it works and it allows you to track your progress. What more could you want from a rowing machine?
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3. We R Sports RowX2 Magnetic Rowing Machine
Next up we take a look at the We R Sports RowX2. What we loved most about this piece of equipment is the fact that it does not make a peep while you are happily rowing away. It’s also quite compact and easy to store—perfect for those of you who do not have a dedicated gym space in your home. The machine works on magnetic resistance with eight different levels to select.
Even though it can be a bit difficult to switch from one resistance to another, it remains a great buy and one of our top-rated rowing machines. It’s also priced fairly, so you won’t have to pay an arm and a leg to start working out. For a fairly simple piece of equipment, it also includes a monitor that will motivate you to reach your fitness goals along the way.
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4. JTX Freedom Air Rower
On to our fourth recommendation, the JTX Freedom Air rower. This piece of equipment is a little less expensive than the previous ones, but it has loads to offer. One unique feature is a heart-rate-controlled workout powered by wearing a wireless chest strap. Simply select the heart rate you wish to achieve during your workout, and the machine will automatically increase or decrease the resistance. Amazing, right?
You will benefit from 16 different resistance levels all running on air flow and electromagnetic resistance for inclusive workouts. This feature makes the rower perfect for the whole family. The structure is sturdy with a reinforced aluminium frame. It is also easy to fold and store. The JTX freedom air rower is worth consideration in our books!
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5. Body Sculpture Twin Hydraulic Rower
Our next entry is the Twin Hydraulic rower by Body Sculpture. It is by far one of the most affordable rowers on the market and does not compromise on quality either. If you are working on a tight budget, this might be the perfect rowing machine for you. It features adjustable hydraulic resistance for an effective full body workout.
You won’t have any problem with space either, as the rower is easy to fold and store. You’ll also be able to track your progress and ensure you meet your fitness goals with the handy monitor included. The only downside is the fact that it only has three resistance levels. Other than that, it is a sturdy and comfortable machine.
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6. JLL® R200 Luxury Home Rowing Machine
Next, we’ve got the JLL® R200 Luxury Home Rowing Machine, which brings us back to the more common magnetic resistance. Take your pick from any of the ten different resistance levels to ensure you get the best workout. The machine is sturdy and very easy to assemble, allowing you to start your workout in no-time.
Thanks to the magnetic resistance, you can also expect a fluid and quiet rowing experience. Curious about whether or not you are improving your performance? Simply set your workout goals and start monitoring your results with the handy LED monitor that tracks every aspect of your workout. Even though the machine does not include instructions on how to get started with the monitor, it is still a great piece of equipment.
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7. Body Sculpture Rower and Gym
Now, if you are on a budget and you are one of those people who prefer getting more for their money, you’ll love our final entry. The Body Sculpture rower and gym is a complete 2-in-1 piece of equipment that will be perfect for your home gym. Apart from doing regular rowing exercises, you are also able to work your abs, arms, chest, back, shoulders and more with the included gym function. Now that’s what we call value for money!
The rower also has a monitor that tracks your progress to ensure you reach your fitness goals. Plus, you will get a free instructional DVD to get you started right away. Even though it only has three resistance levels, it is still a great buy that offers you more than just a single exercise.
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Buyer’s Guide: How to Select the Best Rowing Machine for Your Gym
We’ve taken a look at the best rowing machines and given you the low down on each of them, but now you are probably wondering which one to buy. Luckily, we’ve included this handy buyer’s guide that will give you more information on how to make your selection.
Here we take you through all the different features and functions that may play a role in your final decision on which rowing machine to buy. Let’s jump right in!
1. Type
As you might have noticed during our review, there are many different types of rowing machines. Each has its pros and cons, but let’s take a look at what all this means to you, the athlete.
Magnetic Resistance
If you are worried that you might wake the kids or the neighbours during your early morning routine, a magnetic resistance rowing machine might be perfect for you. These machines are very quiet and you can adjust the resistance manually via a lever or a digital console.
Hydraulic Resistance
In most cases, hydraulic resistance rowing machines are the most affordable ones. They function by way of hydraulic pistons that generate resistance. You will also find that these machines are more compact than other models and are normally easy to store.
Water Resistance
If you are a pro rower, you’d probably prefer the real deal: a water resistance rowing machine. Internal paddles and large water-filled tanks create resistance. These rowing machines are usually more expensive and very noisy. They are perfect for serious rowers though!
Air Resistance
With air resistance rowing machines, the resistance is created by a flywheel which will increase resistance the harder you push yourself. They are usually more affordable, but also very noisy, so perhaps not the best option for young families or someone living in an apartment block.
2. Structure and Materials
The majority of rowing machine frames are made of solid and sturdy materials such as wood or stainless steel. Be sure to check the weight capacity and warranty before buying any old rowing machine, as this will give you an indication of whether or not you are buying a reliable piece of equipment.
3. Ease of Use
If you live in a tiny apartment, buying a giant, non-folding rowing machine may not be a good decision. If you have a home gym, it wouldn’t be a problem whether the machine was bulky or not. Always remember to keep the ease of use in mind if you have limited space available.
Conclusion
That brings us to the end of our review on the seven best rowing machines. We have to be honest, all of the machines we discussed here are top notch in terms of construction and benefits. If you are on a budget, we’d highly recommend the Body Sculpture Rower and Gym for a full body workout. If money and space are not a problem, we’d go for the Concept2 Model D indoor rower.
You now have enough tips and information to get you on your way to buying the best rowing machine for you.
Tom Purton is a fitness junkie. Testing the latest and greatest products on the market and writing reviews in the strength, nutrition, running and many more. For more information about the latest reviews check out Ghost Fitness.
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