Are you looking for a rowing machine and only the best? This guide is about the qualities of different rowing machines and what you should look for when buying (and using) one. Of course, there is no such thing as the best rowing machine; it all depends on your individual needs.
Why buy a rowing machine at all? - What are the benefits of rowing?
The rower or rowing ergometer is a great, comprehensive training tool that also puts a lot of strain on your upper body. This is not only relevant for rowers during the winter break, but also provides you with a great full-body workout with a particularly natural motion sequence. So if you want to buy only one piece of training equipment, which in return should offer the most comprehensive workout possible, the rowing machine is a good choice. If you are looking for the best rowing machine for you, you should first of all know that you do not have to make any compromises in quality or workmanship with us. Our devices are designed for professional needs and use.
What should you look for when buying a rowing machine?
There are differences in the maximum load and in features such as adjustable programs and visual feedback on the display. Here it depends on whether you want to use the rower mainly for cardio and get fit or for more intensive strength training. Adjustable programs such as classic interval training are often a good choice, but not every athlete needs or wants this type of training. Maybe you prefer to sit in front of the TV rowing in the evening, you have to decide what exactly you need and what you're ultimately paying for.
There are also big differences in design and when the rowing machine is placed in your home, this becomes an important factor. Curved shapes or a natural look through the use of wood can create real added value here.
The resistance
Especially important for your purchase decision is also the type of resistance with which the device works.
1. water resistance
Rowing machines, as the name suggests, are based on real rowing on water and imitate this motion sequence. The water resistance creates a realistic feeling of rowing. In addition, here you have a higher resistance and rowing feels smoother. Water resistance rowers are the quietest machines.
2. air resistance
With air resistance, you can exercise with a high and uniform resistance. The disadvantage here is that the machines are among the noisiest rowing machines.
3. magnetic resistance
Rowing machines that are equipped with a magnetic resistance are characterized mainly by their low volume. Often these are among the least expensive cardio machines, have a less good rowing feel than the other resistance types, but are also particularly quiet.
4. combination: air and magnetic resistance
People who want to train with a high resistance and manually adjust the resistance on the screen will find the right device with this combination. With this resistance, the rower is louder than with magnetic and water resistance only, but quieter than with air resistance only.
The computer
Technical progress is also noticeable in fitness equipment. Especially in cardio equipment, displays with various technical options are a must. These not only help keep training motivation high, but also offer new forms of training. For rowing machines, there are different display forms, depending on the manufacturer. However, almost all of them have the standard display. Here, distance, speed, time, calories and rowing strokes per minute are displayed. This is especially helpful for training control. Other modes available for rowing machines are pulse measurement and training programs. In the latter, training game variants can be set, among other things, which add a little fun factor.
But also target entries such as 20 minutes training or 1000 meters rowing, belong to the programs. The manufacturers Concept2 and WaterRower also have an online mode. Here, the computer is connected directly to the network and more training options are offered. Rowing in a team or as a competition is particularly noteworthy, as these can increase motivation once again and lead to a maintenance of fun in training.
The technical data
The technical data of your rowing machine are especially important in terms of suitable body size, load capacity and storage options. In any case, before buying, check with the manufacturer if the machine is suitable for your body proportions. You should also have an overview of the size of the device, so that there are no problems during assembly and you have enough space for your workout.
The best rowing machines at a glance
| concept2 | Matrix | Assault | Stairmaster | |
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| Reviews | 5 stars | none yet | none yet | none yet |
| Target group | Professional/Studios | Advanced/Studios | Beginner/Advanced | Studios |
| Special feature | Available with high legs | Space-saving, vertical storage, transport wheels |
4-way leveling/ stabilization system |
Perfect for HIIT |
| Resistance | Air resistance | Induction brake | Air resistance | Air Resistance |
| Connectivity | Yes | not specified | Not specified | Yes |
| Price | from 1.050 € | on request | from 1.350 € | from 1.400 € |
Find the best rowing machine for you and your workout
The rowing machine is a really good choice as a personal trainer for fitness, cardio and strength training. Here you get comprehensive potential and the possibility to train your whole body.
If you are looking for a machine for home use, you should pay attention to possible programs, low weight and resistance that suits your level - then you will enjoy this sophisticated machine for a long time.
Find your rowing machine now at an unbeatable price!
Editors fitnessmarkt.de (EA)
Published on: 8 April 2021