13 Best Foldable Rowing Machines, As Per An Expert– 2024
Achieve a toned physique and strengthen muscles with these portable machines.
Seamus SullivanCertified Strength & Conditioning Specialist 
Seamus Sullivan is a Los Angeles, California-based Performance Health Coach. As a young athlete, Seamus got his start in the sport of wrestling and even competed to the collegiate level. Athletics for him was not all the glory he thought it... more
aditi naskarMA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is ... more
medha debIntegrated MA Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in ... more
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Shape your muscles and achieve real results from the comfort of your home with the best folding rowing machine. This machine is ideal for low-impact exercises. They help burn out the unwanted calories, strengthen the muscles, and tone them into a beautiful shape. The machine comes with a foldable option, convenient for storage and portability. In this post, we have mentioned the top 13 of these machines. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast seeking personal transformation or someone looking for expert perspective, these recommendations offer an array of options to suit your needs. Have a look!
In This Article
Comparison Between The Top 4 Foldable Rowing Machines
| Features | Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine | Stamina Body Trac Gilder Rowing Machine | ProGear 750 Rower | MaxKare Air Rower Rowing Machine |
| Tension | Magnetic | Hydraulic | Hydraulic | Air |
| Levels Of Resistance | 8 Levels | 12 levels | 3 levels | None |
| Inseam Length | 44 inches | 59-74 inches | 37-43 inches | 50 inches |
| Maximum user Weight | 250 lbs | 250 lbs | 220 lbs | 264 lbs |
| Foldable Dimension | 37” L x 19” W x 53.5” H | 50” L x 12” W x 10” H | 45.5” L x 26.5” W x 7.8” H | 40.5” L x 19.7” W x 42.1” H |
| Reviewers’ rating | 4.5 | 4.3 | 4.6 | 4.3 |
13 Best Foldable Rowing Machines For Low-Impact Workouts – 2024
1. Best Overall:Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
The Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine helps improve your fitness journey. It has a magnetic tension system with eight levels of adjustable tension. It provides adequate resistance to your exercise regime. The digital LCD console tracks your progress in terms of duration, count, and calories burned.
The machine features a non-slip large textured foot pedal with attached high-quality straps that secure your feet firmly in place throughout the rowing routine. It has anti-slip bars with a soft padded foam grip that provides optimum comfort and support throughout the entire performance. Many reviewers are of the opinion that the cushioned seat supports your glutes for longer sessions.
Its smoother range of motion makes it a unique exercise gear. The attached floor stabilizer protects the floor from tipping, rocking, and swaying. You get better, quieter performance. The machine has a space-saving design. It can be easily folded up to stack in any corner of your house. It has transport wheels that allow convenient movement.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 82” L x 19” W x 23” H
- Folded Dimensions: 37” L x 19” W x 53.5” H
- Machine Weight: 59 lbs
- Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs
- Levels Of Resistance: 8
- Resistance System: Magnetic Piston
- Rowing Beam: Steel
Key Features
- Smooth resistance
- Adjustable tension
- Anti-slip foot pedals
- LCD display
Pros
- Non-slip hand bars for support
- Built-in transportation wheels
- Targets different muscles groups
- Cushioned seat
- High-quality straps attached with foot pedals
- Floor stabilizers
- Smooth and quiet operation
- Extra-long side rails
Cons
- Small LCD monitor
- Magnets not durable
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 16,763 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
2. Best Budget:Stamina Body Trac Glider Rowing Machine
The Stamina Body Trac Glider Rowing Machine is an affordable piece of equipment. It has a compact and portable design. It easily fits any area. It features rowing arms with a full range of motion. These allow a natural rowing movement and stimulate the feeling of rowing on actual water.
The machine has a steel frame and an aluminum center beam. It has an LCD monitor that tracks workout duration, stroke count, calories burned, and total strokes accumulated. The adjustable, hydraulic cylindrical design helps change the resistance as you wish. This may also allow you to do pull-downs and bent-over rows. The textured footplates and straps enable proper rowing experience. They also secure your foot in place and challenge the specific muscle groups.
The entire rowing machine is engineered ergonomically to ensure optimum comfort. The molded cushioned seat offers protection to the glutes and back during the workout session. Many reviews indicate that the foldable arms save space and allow for easy storage. The machine is easy to clean.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 58.5” L x 42.5” W x 18.12” H
- Folded Dimensions: 50” L x 12” W x 10” H
- Machine Weight: 39 lbs
- Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs
- Levels Of Resistance: 12
- Resistance System: Hydraulic Piston
- Rowing Beam: Steel frame with aluminum center beam
Key Features
- Comfortable foot pedals
- Molded seat
- Smooth ball-bearing roller system
- Full-range rowing arms
Pros
- Adjustable resistance
- Multi-functional LCD console
- Textured foot pedals for better grip
- Nylon attached straps
- Molded seat for added comfort
- Foam padded hand grips
- Sturdy steel frame
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Noisy piston operation
3. Best Touchscreen Option:NordicTrack Smart Rower
With the NordicTrack Smart Rower, you can bring a superior, interactive personal fitness experience home. Live and on-demand exercises are sent directly to your equipment via its 10-inch interactive HD touchscreen. Moreover, the console angle can be changed to accommodate different types of training, both on and off the equipment. The rower offers 26 digital resistance levels and hands-free auto-adjust features that adjust as you work out. You can exercise in silence at home, thanks to its innovative SMR (Silent Magnetic Resistance) technology.The rower’s foldable, space-saving design makes it simple to store. Your rower, therefore, can be folded for neat vertical storage when not in use. Moreover, it has movable foot straps. You can lock your feet into place and lay a solid foundation for each stroke with the help of adjustable foot straps. Many reviewers have suggested locking your feet into place and laying a solid foundation for each stroke with the help of adjustable foot straps. Each strap is connected to an ergonomic pedal that pivots in accordance with how your body moves naturally. The Nordic Rower also offers a custom seat that smoothly glides with the help of steel rail, supporting 250 pounds.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 22″D x 87.02″W x 47.24″H
- Folded Dimensions: Not Mentioned
- Machine Weight: 120 Pounds
- Maximum User Weight: 250 Ibs
- Levels Of Resistance: 26
- Resistance System: Magnetic
- Rowing Beam: Alloy Steel
Key Features
- Magnetic and air resistance
- Immersive HD touchscreen
- Bluetooth connectivity
Pros
- Auto-adjustable trainer control
- Space saving design
- Resistance training
- Smoothly gliding seat
- Adjustable console angle
- Well-padded seat
- Robust handlebars
Cons
None
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine Best Overall | Stamina Body Trac Glider Rowing Machine Best Budget | NordicTrack Smart Rower Best Touchscreen Option | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frame Material | Alloy Steel | Carbon Steel | - |
| Dimensions | 89"D x 18.9"W x 23.6"H | 42.5"D x 58.25"W x 18.13"H | 22"D x 86.5"W x 50.4"H |
| Color | Grey | Silver/Black | Black |
| Number of Batteries | 2 AAA batteries required | 1 AA batteries required | - |
| Material | Alloy Steel | Aluminum, Carbon Steel | Other |
| Weight | 60.9 Pounds | - | 130.6 Pounds |
| Number of Items | - | - | 1 |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 16,763 | 5,607 | - |
| Price | $249.0 | $169.0 | - |
4. Best Compact Design:Lanos Hydraulic Rowing Machine
If you are looking for a full-body workout machine with an ergonomic, foldable design, this is it. The Lanos Hydraulic Rowing Machine can easily adjust the resistance as per your stamina. Its LCD console helps track your progress and keeps you motivated. The ergonomic molded seat with proper cushioning smoothens your every movement.
The machine also has pivoting footplates with nylon straps that fit any foot size. They secure your feet in their place during the workout session. The easy-grip handlebar with foam and cushion provides a comfortable hand grip for shoulder and chest presses. Its full range of motion gives a tough challenge to your whole body. According to several reviews on online forums, the machine can be folded to a compact size to fit any area of your house.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 50” L x 36.22” W x 20” H
- Folded Dimensions: 49” L x 23” W x 20” H
- Machine Weight: 34 lbs
- Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs
- Levels Of Resistance: 3
- Resistance System: Hydraulic Piston
- Rowing Beam: Alloy Steel
Key Features
- A hydraulic resistance control knob
- Gliding seat
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Pivoting footplates
- Nylon foot straps
- Easy-grip armbars
- Customizable goal setting
- Large LCD
Cons
- Time-consuming assembly
"Assembling this rowing machine was straightforward, and quite enjoyable for me. Despite some creaking, the machine performs smoothly, offering a great cardio workout. It might not for the intense fitness buffs, but an excellent pick for gentle rhythmic workouts. In my opinion, t's a budget-friendly machine, meant for light use. The build feels sturdy, and the adjustable resistance works well ensuring quiet operation. Overall, I find it a decent home fitness partner."
5. Best Air Rower:ECHANFIT Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine
The ECHANFIT Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine is designed with a long, reinforced handle and a strong, durable cord, allowing you to pull small and large strokes comfortably. You can quickly lock or unlock the rowing frame with the quick-release pin. In addition, you can fold the rowing machine upright for space-saving storage.
The wheels fitted underneath the seat encourage smooth sliding while the textured rubber footrests with adjustable straps secure your feet during workouts. In addition, this device features a tablet shelf, grip handlebar, and multi-function LCD monitor that displays distance, time, RPM, calories, and count.
You can also adjust the levels of the resistance to have an effective workout according to your convenience. Many reviewers have noted that the durable belt minimizes the noise and allows you to perform in silence, without disturbing others.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 2” x 19.29” x 33.46”
- Weight: 68 pounds
- Maximum weight capacity: 350 pounds
- Levels of resistance: 16
- Resistance system: Magnetic resistance
Key features
- Smooth seat rail movement
- Adjustable console displays
- User friendly LCD monitor
Pros
- Easy storage
- Wheels for easy portability
- Secure footrest
Cons
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 984 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
6. Best Compact Magnetic Rower:Marcy Foldable Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine
The Marcy Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine features an innovative design. It includes a quick-release pin that locks it into position. The all-in-one rowing machine can train your upper and lower body, along with improving cardiovascular endurance. The multi-angle ultra-functional LCD console tracks your every movement and gives you a perfect score for the burned calories. The monitor can be folded both backward and forward while folding the entire rower.
The 8-level resistance system can be controlled by revolving one tension knob. You can easily up or down the resistance levels as per your convenience. The entire machine is ergonomically engineered keeping in mind the comfort and safety of the user. The seat is padded with high-density foam to ensure optimum comfort during long workouts. The seat dimension (13.5” x 10” x 9”) fits all.
The large foot pedals with durable straps ensure proper safety while pulling the rowing cable. The pedals are slip-resistant and suitable for any foot size. They feature a device holder for stacking your mobile or tablet. The transport wheels attached to the rowing machine allow easy movement. Many reviews on online forums assert that the machine’s compact, the foldable design ensures less storage space.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 74.4” L x 19.7” W x 31.9” H
- Folded Dimensions: 36” L x 20” W x 44.5” H
- Machine Weight: 60 lbs
- Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs
- Levels Of Resistance: 8
- Resistance System: Magnetic
- Rowing Beam: Alloy Steel
Key Features
- Resistance knob
- Transport wheel
Pros
- Easy-to-read display panel
- Easily tracks progress
- Conveniently placed pedals
- Customizable foot straps
- Slip-resistant
- Easy-to-operate resistance knob
- Built-in transport wheels
- Foam-covered row handle
- Media rack
Cons
None
"This rower has a simple and straightforward assembly. The unit feels sturdy, even at a higher weight limit. Workouts come installed, which eases your path into rowing. I'm confident this durable machine will be a good fit for anyone seeking a home-based workout."
Did You Know?7. Best For Beginners:Merax Magnetic Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine
The Merax Magnetic Adjustable Rowing Machine has a good build quality. It is a great exercise gear for entry-level rowers. Its adjustable resistance tension knob allows you to easily change the resistance and fix it as per your stamina and strength. It has 8 levels of resistance that allow you to increase or decrease the intensity as you need. The large LCD console can easily track time, count, calories, and total count to keep you further motivated and focused.
A sliding, double-padded, and upholstered seat supports your glutes and the entire back as you perform a prolonged and vigorous workout. It stabilizes the brackets to hold the seat into the socket and ensures full safety while rowing. The 15-degree angled seat rail ensures smooth and noise-free functioning. The multi-angled rotary footplates adjust your pedal positions according to the movement. The built-in magnetic flywheel minimizes noise during the rower’s operation, giving a comfortable and effective workout session.
The built-in transport wheels and the portable design allow easy storage at home. The entire machine can be folded into a compact size and stored anywhere at home.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 73” L x 16” W x 21” H
- Folded Dimensions: 26” L x 16” W x 49” H
- Machine Weight: 74 lbs
- Maximum User Weight: 264 lbs
- Levels Of Resistance: 8
- Resistance System: Magnetic
- Rowing Beam: Alloy Steel
Key Features
- 8-Levels of resistance
- 15-degree tilt angle
- Fully padded seat
- Silent operation
- Built-in magnetic flywheels
Pros
- Smooth and silent operation
- Provides whole body workout
- Large LCD
- Adjustable resistance levels
- Padded seating arrangement
- Large strapping footplates
- Durable and portable design
- Built-in transportation wheels
- Multi-angle rotary footplates
Cons
- Not suitable for experienced users
- Basic monitor
- Poor footrest design
"This rowing machine is a dependable companion for my home workouts. It has an easy assembly and smooth operation. This compact and sturdy machine gives a decent cardio burn. However, tall individuals might find it uncomfortable due to limited legspace. Overall, it's a satisfactory purchase for beginners pushing for fitness at home."
8. Best User-Friendly Installation:YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine
The Yosuda Magnetic Rowing Machine offers your entire body a thorough workout and burns calories faster. The machine is ideal for therapy, shedding pounds, sculpting the body, and strength training. As you exercise, this rower’s ultra-quiet, non-touching magnetic control technology shall not interfere with your family’s sleep, productivity, or study. It is made with aluminum-sliding rails, which ensure that your rowing motion is smoother, quieter, and steadier. The molded-in, elastic seat is padded and has a padded surface for comfort.
The 16 top-notch neodymium magnets and the 12-pound flywheel in the design of the rower, offers more resistance to better activate your body’s potential. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned exerciser, the 16-level resistance enables you to customize your exercise program.
The Yosuda Rower has a monitor that can be adjusted for various viewing angles so that you can see your rowing time, SPM, total count, and calories perfectly. The large screen has a tablet holder so you can view your favorite shows without interfering with the exercise statistics.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 46.75″D x 26.75″W x 8″H
- Folded Dimensions: Not Mentioned
- Machine Weight: 77 Ibs
- Maximum User Weight: 350 Ibs
- Levels Of Resistance: 16
- Resistance System: Magnetic And Water
- Rowing Beam: Alloy Steel
Key Features
- Magnetic and water resistance
- LCD monitor
- Non-slip texture
Pros
- Ergonomic grip
- Durable nylon rope
- Easy to move
- Special tablet holder
- Adjustable straps
- Customizable padded seats
Cons
None
"I fell in love with this rowing machine at first use. It offers a smooth, rhythmic workout, that I enjoy.. Assembling it was a breeze. No matter the weight, the machine's stability is commendable and its seat is comfortable. This machine has swiftly improved my range of motion and helped me lose weight. It has been a valuable purchase for me."
9. Best Rotating HD Screen:Echelon Smart Rowing Machine
The Echelon Smart Rowing Machine offers a full-body, low-impact workout. It comes with a rotating HD screen, which makes it simple to switch up row sessions. During rowing, the screen’s sharp resolution helps you concentrate, and the Wi-Fi-enhanced antennae guarantees reliable communication at all times. The machine also features dual audio connections and Bluetooth technology. For off-road training, it also offers a 22-inch HD spinning screen. The handlebars comprise controls for silent electromagnetic resistance levels. The product has built-in wheels to make moving it to its desired location simple.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 49.5 x 25 x 17 inches
- Folded Dimensions: Not Mentioned
- Machine Weight: 123 Pounds
- Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs
- Levels Of Resistance: Not Mentioned
- Resistance System: Magnetic
- Rowing Beam: Alloy Steel
Key Features
- Magnetic resistance
- Efficient HD screen
- Additional built-in wheels
Pros
- Functional design
- Easily adjustable resistance control knob
- Smooth gliding seat
- Well-padded design
- Robust handlebars
Cons
None
"I found the machine pretty simple to set up, despite the fewer instructions. It's very quiet, the seat glides smoothly, and it conveniently holds my iPad. It folds up compactly which suits my small room. The app has a free version that is enough for me to monitor my rowing performance. Absolutely worth it!"
10. Best For Burning Fat:SereneLife Rowing Machine
The SereneLife Rowing Machine is ideal for sports training, cardio fitness, and fat burning. It has a large LCD console that allows you to monitor the elapsed times, strides, distance covered, revolutions per minute, and calories burned. It features an auto-power system to save battery life.
This compact home-gym equipment system contains 8 levels of tension resistance that help adjust the intensity levels. The quite, contoured, comfortable row seat supports the glutes and the back for long workout sessions. The comfortable padded handlebars are slip-resistant.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 77.2” L x 16.1” W x 29.9” H
- Folded Dimensions: 39.3” L x 17.7” W x 53.1” H
- Machine Weight: 62 lbs
- Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs
- Levels Of Resistance: 8
- Resistance System: Magnetic and air resistance
- Rowing Beam: Steel metal alloy
Key Features
- Combines both air and magnetic resistance
- Covers maximum 999.9 miles
- Auto power-off
- Get connected with the ‘Fitshow’ app
Pros
- Large LCD console
- Adjustable resistance
- Smooth gliding seat
- Well-padded seat
- Robust handlebars
- Perfect for low-impact options
- Pedal-style footrests
- Tension control knob
- Easy to assemble
Cons
None
"The rowing machine is well-constructed and sturdy, with all tools clearly labeled so there's no hiccups in assembling it. I also love its unique combination of wind and magnetic resistance that provides a smooth and noise-free workout. Though the foot holders are too spacious for my liking, it doesn't overshadow the overall experience. It is a solid choice for home use."
11. Best Commercial-Grade:ShareVgo Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine
Now you can do a low impact full-body workout effectively with the ShareVgo Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine. The device is engineered with an extra 48” slide rail that encourages large seating. It has a large tablet holder to keep you entertained during workouts. The compact collapsible design encourages secure and space-saving storage.
Track your workout distance, time, and total count with the Bluetooth LCD monitor. In addition, by downloading the ShareVgo fitness app, you can keep track of your worksheet. It also contains fun and challenging workout programs that keep you engaged.
The non-skid foot pedals with adjustable straps keep your feet secure while exercising different styles. In addition, wide seating and foam handlebars ensure your comfort during long hours of workouts.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 82” x 20” x 32“
- Folded dimensions: 39” x 20” x 52”
- Weight: 62 pounds
- Levels of resistance: 8
- Resistance system:Magnetic resistance
Key Features
- Large non-slip foot pedals
- Extra side rail to match different heights
- Compact foldable design
Pros
- Easy assembly
- Smooth and quiet
- Anti-skid base
- Anti-slip foam handlebar
Cons
None
12. HouseFit Rowing Machine
The HouseFit Rowing Machine is a heavy-build exercise gear that withstands 300 lbs of weight and tones down the different muscle groups. This rowing machine is designed with a high-quality solid aluminum slide rail and a no-touch magnetic resistance that makes your workout sessions comfortable and quiet. The adjustable resistance levels (up to 15) make this machine suitable for both beginners and experts.
A large digital monitor tracks your progress and keeps you motivated throughout the session. You can adjust the stride count and distance to give yourself a tough challenge. The angles of the display can be adjusted as per your height. The wide-cushioned seat and the non-slip pedal with adjustable straps ensure long workout sessions without straining the legs and the back.
The anti-skid rowing machine with built-in transport wheels can be easily stored indoors. Its compact, foldable design saves a lot of space. The assembly does not consume a lot of time.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 64.4” L x 21.3” W x 31.3” H
- Folded Dimensions: 29” L x 22” W x 65” H
- Machine Weight: 62 lbs
- Maximum User Weight: 300 lbs
- Levels Of Resistance: 15
- Resistance System: Magnetic resistance
- Rowing Beam: Aluminum beam with solid steel support
Key Features
- Special real stabilizer
- Aluminum side rail
- Shock absorption system
- Adjustable pedals
Pros
- Durable foamed handlebars
- Rock-solid build
- Slip-resistant
- Adjustable pedals
- Customized foot straps
- Ergonomic seat cushion
- Easy assembly
Cons
None
"The product's top-notch build is impressive. The remarkable design and functionality also recieves a 10/10 from me! Its style is quite pleasing as well. Would recommend it for sure."
13. Merax Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine
Enjoy effective and smooth workouts with the Merax Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine. The eight-level magnetic tension resistance encourages challenging rowing machine workouts. The device is engineered with a 17-inch wide handlebar with a comfortable grip to perform the exercise smoothly while watching TV or listening to music.
Know your distance, time, stroke, total count, and calories burned with the built-in LCD monitor. Keep your feet secure while exercising with the large footplates that come with adjustable straps. In addition, the device comes with a cushioned seat to make you feel comfortable, especially during long workouts.
Fold and easily relocate with the portable wheels. You can use this rowing machine for toning out your forearms, triceps, biceps, legs, shoulders, and thighs effectively.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 5” x 18.7” x 10.2”
- Folded dimensions: 9” x 18.7” x 57”
- Maximum weight capacity: 330 pounds
- Levels of resistance: 8
- Resistance system:Magnetic resistance
Key features
- Foldable rowing machine
- Portable wheels for smooth carrying
- Large contour seat
Pros
- Large display
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy
- Anti-slip foot pedals
Cons
None
"The assembly is straight forward and the machine is quite user-friendly. However, one minor hiccup was getting the wheels of this rowing machine to connect with the floor. Though I must say, the rower has a commendable resistance. Compared to gym rowers I've used, it has a similar feel, is sturdy, yet easy to manoeuvre, having a comfy seat, and excellent foot supports. It provides a quiet and enjoyable rowing experience. Overall, I'm content with this machine."
These are the 13 best foldable rowing machines available online. The following sections further discuss rowing machines. The information can be especially helpful if you are a beginner.
What Is A Rowing Machine?
A rowing machine is also known as an ergometer that uses 86% of muscle groups to build endurance, and tone and strengthen the core muscles. Rowing also enhances one’s cardiorespiratory endurance.
Rowing machines are available in different types. Let us take a look at them.
Types Of Rowing Machines And Their Modes Of Action
- Water Rowing Machine: It provides a real-time rowing experience. It uses water for resistance by spinning the flywheel attached to a full-water tank. It gives a smooth and fluid motion.
Mode Of Action: Water rowers use a water flywheel (pedals) in a tank of water attached to a chain and the handles. When you pull the handles, the pedals revolve in the water. The mass of the moving water creates drag against the pedals to produce resistance.
- Air Rowing Machine: It is one of the most popular models that use air force to build resistance. These machines are often referred to as ergos or ergometers. They exercise your muscles against the force of the air.
Mode Of Action: Air rowers produce resistance with air flowing over an internal flywheel. A chain connects the wheel to the rowing handle. As you pedal, the flywheel spins against the airflow to produce resistance.
- Magnetic Rowing Machine: It is operated by an electromagnetic brake system that creates resistance. It offers a quiet rowing experience.
Mode Of Action: This machine works by varying the distance between strong magnets and a spinning flywheel attached to a chain’s handle. The resistance levels are adjusted either by a magnetic slider (by changing your stride length) or by a digital console panel.
- Hydraulic Rowing Machine: It is suitable for home use due to affordable prices. It offers a smooth and quieter performance.
Mode Of Action: It works on a hydraulic piston that uses air or water to build resistance. You need to pull against the air or fluid inside the cylinder to adjust the resistance levels. The adjustable resistance system is effective both for beginners and experts.
Navigate your fitness journey with insights from certified personal trainers and fitness coaches. Now here are the benefits of using a rowing machine.
Benefits Of Using Rowing Machines For Exercise
- Rowing is a whole-body endurance sport that strengthens different muscle groups (1).
- It helps improve total body composition. It is an effective calorie burner. It decreases fat mass and improves lean body mass (1).
- Rowing is a low-impact exercise. However, it burns many calories without straining the joints, ligaments, or tendons. A study for 8
- weeks showed that rowing could improve joint rotation by 30% (2).
- Rowing improves cardiorespiratory responses by enhancing blood circulation throughout the body (3).
Foldable rowing machines are ideal for a home gym setup. In the following sections, we have discussed why.
Why Are Foldable Rowing Machines Ideal For Home Use?
- Space-Friendly: Traditional rowing machines are heavy and occupy huge spaces. But foldable rowing machines occupy just half of the space and can be two-folded to stack anywhere.
- Multiple Levels Of Resistance: The hydraulic and magnetic rowing machines are foldable with a regulatory resistance knob. But the traditional rowing machines (water rowers or air rowers) are huge and have no foldable options. They do not come with adjustable resistance, and the user needs to regulate it. However, the self-regulating resistance and foldable rowing machines are ideal for beginners.
- Portability: The compact size of a foldable rowing machine and the built-in transport wheels offer easy portability.
- Easy To Disassemble: You need just 30-40 minutes to assemble and disassemble a foldable rowing machine. If you do not want to fold it, you can easily disassemble it in under 10 minutes and save more space.
If you are a beginner, a foldable rowing machine can be a little intimidating. The following guide will help you use the machine the right way.
The Right Way To Use A Rowing Machine
- Start by holding the oar with your arms extended and feet placed on the wide foot pedals. Hold the handle using an overhand grip. Engage your core and straighten the back.
- This position is known as “the catch” where you extend your arms fully and bend your knees.
- With your back straight and core engaged, push back using only your legs (leg muscles), rolling through your feet, and keeping them flat to the ground when legs are extended. Your legs should perform 60% of the work while rowing.
- Bend at your hips to push your upper body slightly back. You should engage your core just 20% while doing this drive.
- The arm motion is the final part. Pull the grip toward the lower rib cage.
- Bring the elbows back while you pull hard.
- Hinge forward at your waist until you get back to the starting position.
The following are the common mistakes with rowing machines that you would want to avoid.
Common Mistakes And How To Fix Them
- Do not hunch your back. It may strain your shoulders. Your shoulders should be back to open the chest and relaxed with no tension when you are in the ‘catch’ position. Engage your core.
- Do not scoop your motion as you row. If you bend your knees before extending your arms fully, you may strain your neck and hands. Your knees and hands should have proper coordination when extended.
- Do not raise your arms too high while rowing back. This posture strains your shoulders. Bring the oar just below your chest and use the upper-back muscles to pull it towards the chest.
- Your knees should not drop to the sides. Use your inner thigh muscles to keep the knees close together.
Now that you are well aware of a foldable rowing machine, we are sure you would want to buy the best. But before you make a choice, quickly scan through the detailed buying guide.
What To Consider Before Buying A Foldable Rowing Machine
- Type Of Resistance: There are different types of rowing machines with different resistance levels. Each resistance level comes with its own noise level, storage capacity, and price. If you are a beginner, picking a hydraulic resistance is the right choice. But if you are an expert, you can choose between magnetic, air, or water resistance.
- Durability and Stability: The material and the framework determines the stability and durability of a rowing machine. Most machines with modern technology are made of steel with aluminum side rails to enhance longevity.
- Comfort: While exercising to the optimum, you do not want to compromise with comfort. You should check the padding of the seat, the cushioning, and the foaming handles to ensure comfort. The handles and pedals should be slip-resistant. The sliding seat should be properly cushioned to provide support to your back and glutes.
- Maximum Weight Of The User: The rowing machine should be perfectly engineered to withstand a maximum weight of 300 lbs. Some heavy-duty, foldable rowing machines can even take up to 600 lbs.
- Noise Level: If you want a quieter rowing experience, a magnetic rowing machine is a perfect piece for you.
- Storage Features: Most rowing machines are lightweight and foldable. If you want more store-saving options, pick foldable rowing machines that can be disassembled in 2-3 parts.
- Display/Console: While rowing, you want to track your progress. The LCD console panel should be large enough to track your goals like duration, distance, striking rate, and calories burned.
Infographic: Top Features To Look For In A Foldable Rowing Machine
When investing in a foldable rowing machine, it is essential to look out for certain features to ensure an effective workout experience, like resistance levels, frame quality, operation type, storage convenience, and more. Check out the infographic below to know what else to focus on and get the best foldable rowing machine as per your requirements.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
The rowing machine is a low-impact cardio machine that helps achieve your fitness targets. They help in toning your muscles and provide strength to your core. These machines help shed those extra pounds to bring you back in shape. They aid in monitoring your workout duration and total calories burnt. Go for the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine for a space-saving and low-noise design. The Stamina Body Trac Glider Rowing Machine is an affordable option if you are on a budget while the NordicTrack Smart Rower offers custom seat and SMR technology. These machines have adjustable resistance levels, remain durable, and offer no-slip grip. However, some products may not have a user manual and are not easy to assemble. Go through the benefits and buying guide to select the best rowing machine that meets your fitness goals.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Aditi Naskar is a sports enthusiast with a Diploma in Health & Wellness and specializes in reviewing fitness products. She advocates using only the best and most appropriate equipment while training as safety, design, and durability are three crucial factors that affect user experience. According to her, rowing machines are one of the best low-impact muscle-toning and strengthening exercise equipment. She researched the available options on the market and shortlisted the top machines in the category. The products mentioned here are designed keeping safety standards in mind and have excellent build and portability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are folding rowing machines stable when in use?
Yes, a folding rowing machine, when assembled properly, gives you a stable performance.
Can you lose belly fat with a rowing machine?
A rowing machine works on the core. Hence, it may help shed some excess fat from the belly. Along with that, you also must reduce your stress levels, eat healthy, and sleep properly.
Is rowing better than cycling?
Rowing is a low-impact exercise that puts less pressure on your joints. It is a great alternative to cycling and involves your whole body.
How long should you workout on a rowing machine?
Initially, you can start working out for 10 minutes. You may gradually increase the resistance and time once you build more strength and stamina.
Which is the best rowing machine for home use?
All rowing machines are suitable for home use. But you may pick the foldable variant. If you want a budget-friendly rowing machine, go for one that has hydraulic resistance.
Can you get in shape by just rowing?
Along with rowing, you also need to focus on eating healthy and sleeping well to get in shape.
Is a rowing machine good for knee pains?
Rowing is a low-impact exercise that puts less pressure on your knees. It may not aggravate knee pains. However, if you have severe knee pains, consult your doctor before using a rowing machine.
Are water rowers better than magnetic rowers?
In terms of durability and sturdiness, water rower could be ideal. But for a noise-free, quieter, and easier operation, you can go for a magnetic rower (suitable for beginners).
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