Related Articles
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
There are few workout options that really work your entire body all at once. Running, swimming, and elliptical are the big ones, but rowing is often overlooked. Truth is, it’s one the best all-around activities you can do for full-body fitness and strength, and an excellent low-impact option for those with joint pain who don’t want the pounding that comes with running, or the pressure of being on your feet while getting fit.
There’s no prior training involved, no age or height requirements, and you’re usually able to be in charge of the difficulty setting – letting you work your way up at your own pace. Not only can rowing Increase your metabolism, burn calories and fat more efficiently (not to mention improve your cardiovascular health), you’ll quickly find that it builds a strong back too, while utilizing all your major muscle groups.
Maybe best of all: a rowing machine in your house means no more excuses for not going to the gym.
What Are the Different Types of Rowing Machines?
While the most popular rowing machines may all look similar, it’s the little features that can make a big difference. If you’re constantly connected to your FitBit or fitness app and want to sync it up to your rower, then getting one with Bluetooth compatibility is a must. Also consider that if you live in a small space with others, you’ll want one that can easily fold up for storage, and is fairly quiet, so as to not disturb your housemate when you start that 6am workout every day.
The type of workout you want to do matters too. If you’re looking for more strength and resistance training, a rower that utilizes a belt system might be the way to go. Other users, who are seeking more of a cardiovascular exercise experience, will be just fine using a magnetic-based rower. The best rowing machines all offer adjustable resistance, so you can customize the intensity of your workout, to focus on your arms, core, legs, glute or get a full-body row in.
We’ve also rounded up options with comfortable seats, grippy, easy-to-hold handles, and foot pads that support your feet while rowing.
Ready to hit the rowing machine? These options here will help get you started finding the right rower to crush your fitness goals.
