Did you know that rowing engages over 85% of your muscles in a single stroke while burning up to 600 calories per hour, making it one of the most efficient full-body workouts? Whether you’re aiming for strength, endurance, or cardio, a rowing machine gives you everything you need in just one piece of equipment.
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Why rowing machines are perfect for strength and conditioning training
Rowing machines are great for a full-body workout. They mix cardio and strength training. This makes them perfect for home fitness, helping you get stronger and more fit.
More people are rowing indoors, up by nearly 20% from 2014 to 2021. CrossFit’s popularity has helped, as it often uses rowing machines. The global market for rowing machines is also growing fast, expected to hit over $1.8 billion by 2031.
Rowing machines are good for many reasons. They work about 85% of your muscles at once. This means your legs, back, arms, and core get a workout. It helps build strength and improve endurance and coordination.
Rowing is also easy on your joints. It’s great for those recovering from injuries or wanting to protect their bodies. This makes rowing accessible to everyone, from beginners to pros.
If you want to get fitter, stronger, or just enjoy a tough workout, a rowing machine is a good choice. The next parts will look at the best rowing machines available. This will help you pick the right one for your fitness goals.
1. Concept2 RowErg: The Gold Standard For Rowing Machines
The Concept2 RowErg is a top-notch rowing machine. It’s durable, offers great performance, and works out your whole body. It costs almost £1,000. This rower is a favourite among CrossFit gyms, home gym fans, and even Olympic rowers.
Why It is Ideal for Full-Body Strength Training
It has an air resistance system and adjustable settings. It can handle up to 500 pounds (226.8 kg) and supports users up to 6 feet, 6 inches tall.
The PM5 Performance Monitor tracks many metrics. This helps you have a focused and effective workout.
Performance, Durability & Features
This rowing machine is known for its top-quality build. It’s one of the most popular and best selling rowing machines globally, and for a good reason. It comes with a 5-year warranty, showing it’s built to last.
It’s big, measuring 96″ L x 24″ W x 14″ H, and weighs 57 pounds (25.9 kg). The air-resistance system is adjustable, offering a smooth workout. It also has a padded seat, ergonomic handlebars, and flexible footrests.
2. NordicTrack RW900: Best High-Tech Rowing Machine
If you’re looking for a technologically advanced rowing machine, the NordicTrack RW900, is it. It has a 22-inch HD touchscreen. This lets you choose from many interactive workouts to keep you motivated and engaged.
Immersive Training Experience
The big, responsive touchscreen makes your workouts better by offering lots of training programmes. The 22-inch HD display makes you feel like you’re in a real studio class.
Magnetic and Air Resistance: Tailoring Your Sessions
The RW900 uses magnetic resistance and air resistance. This lets you adjust your workout just right to suit your needs. With 26 digital resistance levels, it suits everyone’s fitness level and helps you get better.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Resistance Type | Magnetic and Air Resistance |
| Resistance Levels | 26 Digital Resistance Levels |
| Display | 22-Inch HD Touchscreen |
| Workouts | Interactive, Trainer-Led Workouts |
| Weight Capacity | 250 lbs |
| Dimensions | 82″ L x 22″ W x 54″ H |
| Warranty | 10-Year Frame, 2-Year Parts, 1-Year Labour |
NordicTrack’s RW900 is a very good option if your looking for a smart rowing machine. It takes your strength and conditioning workouts to the next level with its advanced features.
3. JOROTO Magnetic Rower: Best Budget-Friendly Rowing Machine
JOROTO’s magnetic rower is perfect for adding a rowing machine to your home gym without spending a lot. It has a magnetic resistance system for smooth and quiet rowing. This makes it great for strength training sessions.
Magnetic Resistance for a Quiet and Effective Strength Session
The magnetic resistance lets you easily change the workout intensity. It has 10 resistance levels for everyone, from beginners to advanced users. Plus, it’s very quiet, so you can work out without disturbing others.
Compact and Easy to Store: Perfect for Small Home Gyms
This rower is small and easy to store. It’s designed to be foldable for those with limited space in their home gyms. This makes it perfect for anyone who wants a good rowing machine but has a small area.
The JOROTO rower is a great choice for those on a budget. It offers magnetic resistance, quiet operation, and a compact design. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to improve their strength and conditioning without spending a lot.
4. Echelon Smart Rower: Best Interactive Rowing Machine
The Echelon Smart Rower is perfect for those who want a fun and interactive rowing experience. It’s versatile, technologically advanced, affordable and has a magnetic resistance system for smooth and quiet workouts. You can join live and on-demand classes, compete on leaderboards, and track your progress through the app.
Why it is Perfect for Interactive Strength Training
The rower is great for strength and conditioning workouts as it has a total of 32 levels of magnetic resistance, so you can adjust the intensity to suit your fitness level. The quiet operation lets you focus on your form and technique without distractions.
Magnetic Resistance, Quiet Operation and App Based Workouts
This smart rowing machine also has connectivity features that make it stand out. It works with the Echelon Fit app, offering a wide range of workout classes. You can compete with others on leaderboards and track your progress. The app lets you adjust the resistance levels during your workouts.
5. Schwinn Crewmaster Rower: Best Beginner-Friendly Rowing Machine
The Schwinn Crewmaster is great for those new to rowing machines. It’s simple yet effective for strength and conditioning routines even at a beginner level. Although it’s no longer in production, it was a favourite among home fitness enthusiasts for its innovative features and beginner-friendly design.
Simple Yet Effective
This rowing machine was made to be easy to use yet effective. It has a magnetic resistance system with 10 levels of intensity. This lets users increase the challenge as they get stronger and more endurance.
The adjustable footrests and ergonomic seat make rowing comfortable and customised. It’s perfect for those new to rowing.
Compact and Foldable
The Schwinn Crewmaster Rower is compact and foldable. It fits in small spaces with a footprint of 236.5 x 53.5 x 80.5 cm, making it easy to store.
It’s also lightweight yet sturdy, weighing around 90 pounds (40.8 kg). This makes it simple to move and store when not in use.
Although the Schwinn Crewmaster Rower is no longer available, it is sold on Amazon. If this is out of stock, a good alternative would be the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5801 Folding Magnetic Rower. It offers similar features and benefits at a price under $300. It has a weight capacity of 130 kg, 10 levels of magnetic resistance, and a foldable design.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Rowing Machine
When picking a rowing machine for strength and conditioning, you need to look at a few key features. The resistance type – air, magnetic, or water – greatly affects your workout. Air rowers, like the Concept2, cost just below £1000 and offer intense workouts. Magnetic rowers are cheaper, from £350 to £800, and are quieter.
Hybrid mag-air models mix both, costing between £350 and £800. They offer a good balance.
The resistance levels and programming options are also important. Many machines have monitors that track your progress. They show pace, distance, calories burned, and heart rate. Some even have workout plans and tracking features to help with strength training.
It’s vital that the machine is sturdy and durable. Look for one with a comfortable seat and adjustable resistance. This ensures a smooth, injury-free workout.
| Rowing Machine Type | Price Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Air | £850+ | Dynamic, high-intensity workout |
| Magnetic | £350 – £800 | Quiet, controlled training session |
| Mag-Air | £350 – £800 | Combines the benefits of air and magnetic resistance |
| Water | £850 – £1300 | Smooth, natural rowing experience |
Finally, think about the machine’s portability and storage. Some are compact and foldable, perfect for small spaces. Knowing these features helps you choose the right rowing machine for your strength training and home gym.
Tips To Keep Your Rowing Machine In Optimal Condition
Keeping your rowing machine in top shape is crucial for a great workout. Regular cleaning and proper storage are important. They help your machine last longer and work better.
Begin by cleaning the machine with a damp cloth. This removes dust and debris from the seat rails, footplates, and moving parts. A clean machine means less wear and tear on its parts.
When you’re not using it, store the rowing machine upright or break it down. This protects it from damage caused by the environment. By following these easy tips, your rowing machine will serve you well for years.
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FAQ’s
What are the key features to consider when choosing a rowing machine for strength and conditioning workouts?
When picking a rowing machine, look at the type of resistance. This can be air, magnetic, or water. Also, check the range of resistance levels and the workout options available.
Consider the machine’s durability and weight capacity. Its portability and storage are also important.
What are the unique features of the Concept2 RowErg that make it the gold standard for strength and conditioning workouts?
The Concept2 RowErg is a top choice for rowing machines. It’s loved by CrossFit gyms, home gym fans, and Olympic rowers. It has a strong aluminium frame and an ergonomic seat.
Its PM5 performance monitor tracks many metrics. The air resistance system and adjustable settings make it great for strength training. It’s also durable and easy to store.
What makes the Schwinn Crewmaster Rower a great option for beginners looking to improve their strength and conditioning?
The Schwinn Crewmaster Rower is ideal for beginners. It has a magnetic resistance system and adjustable footrests. These features make it a great rower for those new to rowing.
It offers a challenging full-body workout. Its compact and foldable design is perfect for smaller spaces or where storage is a concern.
