Providing a low-impact, full-body workout, rowing machines are one of the most efficient pieces of at-home gym equipment – targeting multiple muscle groups at once from your legs and back to core and arms. In fact, the famed WaterRower boasts that it’s possible to burn in excess of 1,000 calories per hour when used at maximum exertion. Impressive, huh?
Yet, rowing machines still seem to be one of the least popular items in the gym – loathed mainly because there’s no option to ‘just take it easy’. Once your lower body is strapped into the footplates and your arms reach out for those handles, you know there will be no respite in a rowing workout. You can’t just walk like you can on a treadmill.
Rowing machines also require proper technique; if you don’t know what you’re doing (or you’re a total newbie), this can be a challenge. Poor rowing technique often leads to discomfort – or, in worst cases, injury. But don’t let that put you off.
There’s a whole new generation of luxe rowers worth your attention, and thanks to a surge in boutique fitness classes (famously rated by Brie Larson, the Princess of Wales and Hugh Jackman – Wolverine – himself), workout fanatics of all fitness levels are finally embracing indoor rowing. If you’re looking for a high-quality rowing machine to elevate your cardio workout (read: living room/spare room), keep scrolling for our top picks – which boast on-demand workouts, bluetooth connectivity, easy storage and a whole host of other fancy functionalities.
Meet the experts:
The best rowing machines 2024 at a glance:
- Best Overall: The Hydrow Rower, WAS £1,995 NOW £1,755
- Best For Beginners: JTX Freedom Air Rowing Machine, WAS £499 NOW £439
- Best Compact Rowing Machine: The Hydrow Wave Rower, WAS £1,595 NOW £1,355
- Best Connected Rowing Machine: Echelon ROW, from £949
- Best Rowing Machine With Classes: NordicTrack RW900, WAS £1,999 NOW £1,799
- Best Budget-Friendly Rowing Machine: Concept2 RowErg PM5, £990
- Best Water Rower: WaterRower Performance Ergometer Rowing Machine, £1,299
Is a rowing machine worth having?
There’s a reason rowing machines are loved by both CrossFit and OrangeTheory buffs alike. They’re an easy-to-use and enjoyable way of reaching your fitness goals, and use a huge 86% (!) of your muscles during every rowing experience (in comparison to the 44% used when cycling). Pretty impressive, hey?
Michael Browne, a rowing instructor for leading at-home interactive fitness technology providers Echelon Fitness, told us: “86% of your body’s muscles are engaged; arms, back, abs, obliques, quads, calves, and glutes are all involved, building muscle definition. Unsurprisingly, a rowing machine is a fantastic tool to burn calories, which simultaneously benefits our cardiovascular health.
“Another advantage of rowing is that it doesn’t add additional strain on our joints, such as our hips, ankles, and knees, because it’s low impact. Additionally, there is a seemingly meditative effect that rowing can have due to the calming effect of repetition on our bodies while also relaxing our minds.” Sold? You bet.
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