11 Best Rowing Machines For Beginners + A Buying Guide – 2023
Experience these versatile machines, which will make an ideal fit for the home gym.
Mike SilvermanBS, CPT, HMS
Expertise: Kettlebells, Corrective Exercise, Women's Fitness
Experience: 26 years
Mike is a certified personal trainer with 26 years of experience. He is a contributing editor at Living Fit and a sought-after educator in the fitness industry. Mike's training focus is on kettlebells, powerlifting, and corrective exercise,... more
Aditi Naskar Diploma In Health & Wellness
Expertise: Health & Wellness
Experience: 4 years
Aditi 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 i... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Fitness has become a part of our lifestyle. But, for those who want to get past the usual treadmills, the best rowing machines for beginners let you to lose calories with a satisfying workout too. A rowing machine is the best for strength training and toning your muscles. These machines are designed with adjustable parts and features, keeping in mind the needs of different people.
The market is flooded with hundreds of rowing machines by various brands. Some are beginner-friendly, while some have digital screens to track and record your progress. Some of these machines are ergonomically designed to allow comfortable and risk-free workout sessions too.
Mike Silverman, a Certified Personal Trainer, says, “Rowing is a great way to lose weight and get your cardio in without the impact of running. If you’ve been away from fitness for a while, or just don’t like the wear and tear running and aerobics classes can cause, you can’t go wrong with a good quality rower.”
So, if you are considering investing in one of these machines, check out our list of favorites given below. We have listed some of the top-rated ones available on the market right now.
In This Article
11 Best Rated Rowing Machines For Beginners
1. Best Durability: Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine
Take your strength training to new heights with the Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine. It offers 12 levels of resistance to tone your muscles and burn your calories. This device comes with a digital monitor to help you keep track of your progress. Its pedal straps are creatively placed to ensure your feet rotate effectively. This machine is ergonomically designed from seat to foot pedals and sidebars for comfortable workout experiences. It gives excellent value addition to your home gym. This rower is built with high-quality alloy steel, making it durable and long-lasting with a high weight-bearing capacity. If you are still confused, this video about the Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine might help.
Specifications
- Color: Grey/Black
- Material: Alloy steel
- Weight: 9 pounds
Pros
- Multifunctional
- Digital monitor
- Ergonomic design
- Multiple resistance levels
- Comfortable seat
- Padded handlebars
Cons
None
2. Best Lightweight: JorotoMagnetic Rowing Machine
Joroto Rowing Machine is easy to use and effective in functionality. It is designed with premium quality aluminum with a compact design that is a space saver. This rower offers ten levels of magnetic resistance and can suit people from amateur to expert.
Its digital monitor is creatively adjusted to ensure a regular display of details during your exercise sessions. It is equipped with a double sensor for accurate results. Its handlebar, cup holder, and foot pedals are comfortable enough for longer workouts.
Specifications
- Color: Silver Black
- Material: Aluminium
- Weight:53 pounds
Pros
- Digital features
- Non-slip pedals
- Adjustable resistance
- Attractive design
- Double sensor
- Comfortable
- Durable
Cons
- Slightly heavy
3. Best Space Saving: Dripex Magnetic Rowing Machine
Give your fitness levels a new boost with Driplex Magnetic Rowing Machine. This product is highly effective with 16 levels of resistance, giving you a variety of workout options. It is built with high-quality aluminum for a silent and smooth run, reducing any chance of injuries. Its design is effective in ensuring long workout sessions with less fatigue and great results.
This rower comes with an advanced digital LCD monitor that records essential details such as time, distance, calorie count, etc. Its non-slip paddles, foam padded seat, and well-placed sidebars add to its value. This machine is the go-to fitness pal for people of all ages.
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Material: Aluminium
- Weight:53 pounds
Pros
- Advanced features
- Good weight-bearing
- LCD monitor
- Comfortable 3D seat
- Space-saving
- Portable
Cons
None
Remember4. Best Portable: Schwinn Crewmaster Rowing Machine – 100660
Enjoy your workout time with Schwinn Crewmaster Rowing Machine. It comes with a high-quality LCD that keeps details recorded and boosts motivation. This rower has an ergonomic design that helps you to perform multiple workouts with less burnout. Its adjustable console provides a convenient line of sight and reduces injuries even in high-intensity cardio sessions. This machine is foldable, portable, and very convenient to use. It comes with a 10-year frame warranty and a 3-year warranty for parts. So, get it today and start your journey towards a fit body and toned muscles.
Specifications
- Color:Gray
- Material:Metal
- Weight:97 pounds
Pros
- Foldable
- Portable
- Premium metallic body
- Ergonomic design
- LCD
Cons
- A bit heavy
- No seat cushioning
5. Best Technology: ShareVgo Magnetic Rowing Machine
The innovative ShareVgo Magnetic Rowing Machine offers enhanced features to boost your performance. It has a digital display, Bluetooth, and heart rate sensors that ensure complete fitness and workout details. This machine also has 6 preset distance-based goals and 6 challenges that help you to improve fitness levels constantly.
Its handlebars and sidebars are ergonomically placed to give a feeling of ease during high-impact exercise sessions. It is sturdy with a huge weight-bearing capacity of more than 300 pounds. In addition, this machine has a foam-based comfortable grip. It is easy to set up and assemble to ensure you exercise anywhere anytime.
Specifications
- Color:Green and Gray
- Material:Alloy steel
- Weight:62 pounds
Pros
- Smart calorie calculation
- Advanced Bluetooth display
- Foldable
- Portable
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to use
- Preset fitness goals
- Comfortable handlebars
Cons
- A bit noisy
6. Best Sturdy: Jkangfit Rowing Machine
Transform your indoor exercising sessions with Jkangfit Folding Rowing Machine. This rower has plenty of leg extension and side-room for people to fit, even tall individuals. It operates without noise and features a highly comfortable seat. Its 16 adjustable magnetic resistance levels allow you to exercise at your level and choose intensity smartly.
Its large LCD monitor comes with a detailed performance tracker and progress index. It also has an additional holder to keep your phone or iPad while working out. This rower comes with a comfortable seat, non-slip paddle, and well-designed sidebars. It makes your workout sessions fun and results exceptional.
- Specifications
- Color:Black and Yellow
- Material:Alloy steel
- Weight:72 pounds
Pros
- Large LCD
- Comfortable seat
- Anti-slip pedals
- Non-slip handlebars
- Sturdy
- High weight-bearing capacity
Cons
None
Pro Tip7. Best Resistance: Pooboo Magnetic Rowing Machine
Pooboo Magnetic Rowing Machine offers a full-body workout experience in the comfort of your home. It has over 300 pounds of weight-bearing capacity and extra-long slide rail length for a perfect cardio workout. In addition, this machine generates in a smooth and noise-free manner to make indoor exercising sessions pleasant.
Its multifunctional digital monitor keeps track of fitness progress and helps you set new goals. Its adjustable pedal and cushioned ensure that you feel comfortable even with high-impact exercise sessions. This machine is perfectly portable, easy to assemble, and needs minimal servicing. In addition, it comes with an appealing design and attractive price. Click on the video to view an honest demo and review of the Pooboo Magnetic Rowing Machine
Specifications
- Color:Silver
- Material:Alloy steel
- Weight:62 pounds
Pros
- Durable
- Comfortable
- 16-Levels resistance
- Sturdy
- Foldable
- Portable
- Transport wheels
- Large foot pedals
- Comfortable seat cushion
- LCD monitor
Cons
None
8. Best Digital Features: Echanfit Water Rowing Machine
Echanfit Rowing Machine features 6 levels of resistance and delivers a powerful workout impact. It maximizes both comfort and intensity to make your exercise sessions result-oriented. Its steel seat rail ensures great support for high-impact cardio sessions. This rower also features an LCD to count your steps, calories, exercise time, and set new goals. Its seat is adequately sized and has a comfortable cushion for high-level comfort during long sessions. This rowing machine truly gives a power-packed performance during your exercise sessions.
Specifications
- Color:Black
- Material:Alloy steel
- Weight:88 pounds
Pros
- Efficient design
- Water resistance
- Soft handlebars
- Non-slip pedals
- Adequate paddle size
- Transport wheels
- Advanced digital features
Cons
- Slightly heavy
- Not durable
9. Best Ergonomic Design: Yovital Rowing Machine
The foldable Yovital Rowing Machine is a truly unique piece of home exercise equipment. It is designed with a premium iron flywheel and aluminum slide rail for long-lasting usage. The no-touch magnetic resistance means that the machine will operate in a smooth and noise-free manner. This rower has 8 levels of adjustable resistance and can suit from beginners to pros.
It features an LCD, which acts as the perfect fitness tracker. This machine is sturdy enough to accommodate people weighing 265 pounds and 6 feet 5 inches tall. Its adequate side room, adjustable seat, and cushion handlebars, making this rower safe and super-comfortable to perform high-intensity workouts at home.
Specifications
- Color: Silver Black
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Weight: 64 pounds
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Comfortable handle
- Soft seat cushion
- High-quality material
- Multiple resistance levels
- Noise-free operation
- Fitness monitor
Cons
- Immovable footplates
10. Best Smooth Operation: HouseFit Rowing Machine
HouseFit Rowing Machine is built to last for years. It has a high-quality solid aluminum slide and a sturdy body that can bear a weight of more than 300 pounds. The 15 levels of adjustable magnetic resistance make this rowing machine operate smoothly and quietly. Its non-slip pedals are adequately sized to fit differing feet sizes. Its LED monitor records details and is designed at a comfortable angle. This rower is easy to operate, convenient to move, and quite space-saving.
Specifications
- Color:Silver Black
- Material:Alloy Steel
- Weight:58 pounds
Pros
- Noise-free
- 15 resistance levels
- Sturdy build
- Smooth operability
- Easy to move
- Space-saving design
- Great shock absorption
Cons
None
Remember11. Best In Budget: Yosuda Magnetic Rowing Machine
Yosuda Magnetic Rowing Machine is easy to assemble, space-saving, and effective. Its top-quality design and super silent operation help to perform multiple fitness exercises. You can use this rower to tone muscles, lose calories, and do endurance training.
This rowing machine is equipped with 8 levels of resistance and can accommodate more than 350 pounds of weight. It is highly durable and comes with an LCD monitor to record your workout details. You can also put your phone or tab on the table holder and enjoy music while burning calories.
Specifications
- Color:Black
- Material:Alloy Steel
- Weight:70 pounds
Pros
- Multiple resistance levels
- Sturdy
- Non-slip paddle
- Comfortable handlebars
- Ergonomic design
- Transportation wheels
Cons
- Slightly noisy
If you want to combine cardio with strength training, then the rowing machine is your ideal choice. This total-body fitness machine helps build endurance by engaging the core muscles. It maximizes workouts without over-stressing the joints, making it work for people of all fitness levels. As a beginner, you may be overwhelmed by the choice of rowing machines available, but we have you covered. Here’s a buying guide listing factors to consider while choosing the best rowing machines for beginners.
How To Choose The Best-Rated Rowing Machines For Beginners
- Resistance Mechanism
Rowing machines use different types of mechanisms to provide resistance. Choose a suitable mechanism depending on your preference and budget. For example, water and air are smoother, while magnetic mechanisms are quieter. Hydraulics are usually the cheapest and offer the most control over the resistance levels; therefore, they are ideal for beginners.
- Ergonomic Handle Design
Since this is the part of the machine you will be holding, it must have a comfortable ergonomic design. A classic rowing machine is usually equipped with a single handle, but some rowers have two, like the ones on an elliptical, to provide a range of motion for the upper body. Look for a handlebar that offers a good grip and traction. However, ensure it does not have too much texture to avoid blisters.
- Storage and Portability
Consider the amount of space you have before you choose your rower. Ensure it fits perfectly and isn’t too big. If you are low on space, choose a machine that can be propped up on its side or folded in half. If you are moving it from room to room, look for built-in transport wheels that make it easy to move.
- Additional Features
For convenience, look for additional features in your rowing machine. For instance, the presence of a monitor helps you track your progress and work out better. It tracks parameters such as the distance, number of strokes, heart rate, time duration, and calories burned during a session. Some machines may have built-in workouts or even guidance from an instructor. Padded seats and pivot pedals are added features that make the machine more comfortable.
- Durability
Durability is of utmost importance. The materials used to construct the machine determine its stability and durability. Most machines are built using aluminum, stainless steel, or wood. Wooden machines are known to have a longer life and are generally the best quality. Check the machine warranty; if the manufacturer provides a part warranty as well, it is a bonus.
Exercise helps you to stay fit and energetic. Rowing is a perfect exercise to invigorate stamina and tone your body. It is a full-body workout that tones your arm and abdomen muscles, obliques, and pecs. In addition, this exercise burns a lot of calories without stressing out the joints. But to perform this exercise well, you must invest in the best rowing machine for beginners. These machines come with a digital monitor that helps track the calories burnt and record your progress. In addition, it would be of great help to invest in long-lasting rowing machines with weight-bearing capacity. However, you should avoid machines that make too much noise.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Aditi Naskar, the author, holds a diploma in Health & Wellness and is also a fitness enthusiast. Understanding the significance of rowing machines in burning calories, she researched and read many product reviews to curate a list of the best rowing machines for beginners. This list consists of products that will help you with strength training and keep your muscles toned.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a beginner use a rowing machine?
Rowing is a perfect aerobic exercise and offers a full-body workout. As a beginner, you can use rowing for around 15 minutes daily for great results. With time one can increase the sessions to 30 minutes.
Is a rowing machine hard for beginners?
Rowing machines offer different resistance levels. As a beginner, you need to set it on a lower level for comfortable workout sessions. Then, after some time, you can increase the resistance levels for hard strength training.
Can you lose belly fat on a rowing machine?
Yes. Rowing machines are great fitness equipment to burn extra calories and get rid of stubborn belly fat. They give you a full-body high-intensity workout to ensure your belly fat disappears quickly.
Can you get in shape by just rowing?
Rowing will help you to burn calories, tone muscles, and increase agility. It is a great exercise for a full-body workout and helps you to get in shape. If need be, you can add other strength exercises with rowing.
Should I row every day?
Yes, you can row every day on a good rowing machine. One can gradually increase the resistance levels from easy to hard. Around 20 minutes of rowing daily will help increase physical stamina, bodily agility, and mental toughness.
Is rowing better than running?
Rowing can give you better results than running. While running involves only lower body parts, rowing will impact both upper and lower body muscles. Therefore, it is one of the easiest and best exercises for great fitness.
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