• Best Rowing Machines 2018 - Buyer's Guide

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  • If you have been thinking about starting exercising, but you don’t really love the idea of going to the gym and learning how to operate numerous machines, we’ve got exciting news for you.

     

    You can make your own gym, even if you are on a budget and you have limited space. It doesn’t matter if you have space for only one piece of gym equipment; if you pick a rower, that will be more than enough.

     

    Apart from being compact, and thus space-saving, a rowing machine delivers a full-body workout and improves your cardiovascular fitness, too.

     

    What’s more, while an exercise bike, treadmill, or cross trainer can be rather pricey, that isn’t the case with the rower; you can get the best models for under £1,000 a piece. And those are professional rowers - there are even more budget-friendly rowing machines.

    Why Are Rowing Machines Beneficial

    Many people enjoy using rowing machines since they provide a full-body workout, improve overall health, and are suitable for all fitness levels and ages.

    However, there’s more to these machines than meets the eye:

     

    • Increased endurance

    If you haven’t been active for quite some time, chances are that you lack energy. There’s no need to worry, though. Regular use of a rowing machine will help increase your endurance and give you more energy. Moreover, by using a rower, you will boost your metabolism and become stronger. Although using this machine might feel exhausting at the beginning, once you start getting stronger, it will become easier.

     

    • Weight loss

    Regular workouts on a rowing machine can help you tone muscles and burn calories (600 calories per hour). When compared to other home gym machines, the rower burns the most calories. So, if you desire to lose weight, make a healthy diet plan, use the rower consistently, and the results will come.

     

    • Low-impact cardio

    Weight-bearing exercises such as hiking, running, yoga, or walking can be challenging (and sometimes even risky) for people who are overweight or have joint problems. However, a rower is an excellent solution - the rowing motion is low-impact and natural, which puts minimal stress on the joints.

     

    • Full-body workout

    When you are using a rowing machine, the muscles in your shoulders, arms, stomach, upper back, lower back, glutes, thighs, and calves are put to work. With a single machine, you can get a full-body workout and improve your muscles’ tone and strength, as well as resistance, flexibility, and balance.

  • Best Rowing Machines Under £250

    Rowing machines under £250 are best suited for those who wish to do light cardio workouts instead of high-level resistance sessions.

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    1. Body Sculpture Rower And Gym

    Even though it’s unbelievably cheap, this model actually offers two types of workouts. If you use two grips instead of the rowing handle, this rower will transform into something similar to a cable machine.

     

    The display is very basic, and the rower itself isn’t very stable. So, if you are looking for intense workouts, this machine probably won’t do it for you. Also, since it isn’t very stable, it isn’t ideal for overweight people. Still, if you are a beginner and you want to start slow, this model will meet your needs.

     

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    2. JLL R200 Luxury Home Rowing Machine

    While “luxury” is most likely an exaggeration, this rower is still a solid one for under £200. It offers ten magnetic resistance levels and a satisfactory display that shows calories, as well as time and distance. Also, you can fold it upright and store it easily.

     

    Even on the highest setting, the resistance won’t be strenuous. But, if you are into light cardio workouts, this machine will satisfy your needs.

     

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     3. V-fit Tornado Air Rower

    With an air resistance rower, you will feel like you’re rowing on water. Moreover, such models provide higher resistance levels than magnetic ones.

    Given that you are looking for an air rower under £250, the V-fit is your best pick. One more thing - since the resistance this rowing machine provides is proportional to the force you use to pull, it can be used by people of all fitness levels.

  • Best Compact Rowing Machines Under £500

    If your budget is around £500, you will be able to get an advanced rowing machine that provides adjustable air resistance and built-in workout programmes. Also, rowers in this category are built well, and they are compact, which will allow you to store them easily.

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    1. JTX Freedom Air Rower

    The JTX comes with eight training programmes, 16 levels of air resistance, and an impressive backlit display, which is more than enough for an average user. On top of that, it folds upright, making storing undemanding. Also, if you decide to buy this model, you will get a two-year labour warranty, as well as a two-year in-home parts warranty.

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    2. Reebok Z Jet 400 Rower

    Just like the previous model, this Reebok rowing machine offers 16 resistance levels, but it has 12 workout programmes - four more than the JTX. So, you can be sure that you won’t get bored with it. Also, easy folding will make storing the rower simple, and, since it is sturdy, people up to 120kg can use it.

  • Best Rowing Machine Under £700

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    1. Bodymax Infiniti R100 Super Rowing Machine

    If you are looking for a gym-like experience, consider this excellent, large, and robust model. WIth 12 workout programmes and a variety of resistance levels, it will keep you busy and entertained for a long time.

    Also, you can use the controls on the handlebar to adjust the resistance level, which is handy. One last thing - this rower is ideal for both tall and heavy people. Those who are over 6ft and up to 130 kg can use it.

  • Best High-End Rowing Machines

    Even in the professional category, you needn’t spend more than £1,000 on a high-quality rowing machine. At this price, you can pick either an elite-standard air resistance rowing machine or a water resistance one.

     

    However, if you are looking for a rower with sophisticated apps that has a lot of training programmes, you will have to spend more than £1,000.

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    1. Concept 2 Model D

    The Concept 2 Model D is a bestseller all over the world, which doesn’t come as a surprise. Every gym has a couple of these because they are built to handle repeated intense workouts. Also, each model comes with the PM5 console that you can connect to a smartphone and upload all of your workout data.

     

    If rowing is something that you genuinely enjoy and you can afford this rowing machine, you should know that you can’t go wrong with it. It will last for years on end.

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    2. WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine

    If you want a rowing machine that mimics the feel of rowing on water, the machines by WaterRower should be at the top of your list. You can customise your model - they are available in all types of wood.

     

    You can even match the wood of your rower to your furniture. Also, with every pull, you will enjoy the sound of water, which is much nicer than the industrial noise that air rowers produce.

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    3. Technogym SkillRow

    If you want to make a big investment and get one of the best rowing machines on the market, the SkillRow is the right choice for you. The resistance on it is AQUAFEEL™, and it will help you improve your technique and reduce the strain on your lower back at the same time.

     

    Also, you can connect your smartphone to the SkillRow and attach it to the console in order to track your workouts and receive immediate feedback on your rowing technique. You have to admit - this set-up is pretty impressive.

  • Final Thoughts

    To conclude, if you want full-body workouts in the comfort of your home, but you don’t have a lot of space to spare, a rowing machine is the best choice. Apart from being extremely beneficial for multiple muscle groups, it won’t put a lot of stress on your joints.

     

    In order to pick the best rowing machine for your needs, think about your fitness level and your fitness goals. Also, it’s a good idea to set the budget before you start shopping - that will make the search quick and pain-free.