7 best rowing machines 2024, from Hydrow to the Concept2
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:
- Michael Browne – Rowing Instructor at Echelon Fitness.
- Nickol Flood – Head Coach at ROWBOTS.
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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Scroll for our full pick of the best rowing machines 2024 to get your Olympic rower on.
Why we love it: Having already made huge waves in the US, Hydrow is the buzziest, most innovative and most immersive rowing machine on the block, transporting you live to the best waterways of the world (from London to San Fran and Miami). Using patented Live Outdoor Reality™ technology, it simulates the sounds, sights and synchronicity of rowing on water with each workout - offering engaging, full-body low-impact workouts that engage 86% of the body’s muscles (compared to 44% in cycling). Kind of like Peloton but for rowing fans, the built-in classes boast instruction by world-class athletes, accomplished rowers and Olympians alike. It's so, so good.
What makes it such a stand-out piece of gym kit and beloved by so many celeb fans, is the advanced engineering of it. The Hydrow even mimics the drag you'd get rowing through water IRL - and it's so realistic that you feel like you're on the Thames. It's straightforward to assemble too, with clear instructions - always a win. We love that you can seamlessly connect the rower via bluetooth and to a heart rate monitor to keep track of vital stats during a workout.
Fans of the Hydrow rate it highly for it's roster of instructors and range of classes. In short, they say that combined by the state of the art quality of the Hydrow, actually makes it fun to use. Now, that's a serious selling point to us.
Size: L86in x W25in x H47in.
Connectivity: Bluetooth / Wi-Fi - including an app.
Resistance: Water.
Maximum user weight: 170kg.Why we love it: Ok, sure, the best option for beginner beginners is probably one of the uber-cheap price points, but if you're a rowing beginner who wants to invest in an easy-to-use machine that'll actually stand the test of time, JTX machines are a good bet.
Self-powered, so you don’t have to set it up near a plug or run wires across the floor (hello garden workout), the JTX Freedom Air has eight levels of resistance which are adjusted manually and can even connect to a Polar heart rate monitor (sold separately) so you can add heart rate training to the mix.
It's engineered for a powerful row, with its dual air and magnetic resistance and smooth, stable motion. You can also fold this rowing machine easily, plus it comes with wheels attached, making it simple to shift out of the way when you need to make a bit of space.
Just because this rowing machine doesn't have a high price tag, doesn't mean its lacking when it comes to displaying metrics. You can track pace (strokes per minute), distance, time, total strokes, watts, 500m split and calories on the computer display. And if you fancy a race, then the computer can do that too via racer mode.
Size: L230 x W55 x H88cm.
Connectivity: Heart rate monitor.
Resistance: Dual air and magnetic resistance.
Maximum user weight: 135kg.
Transportation wheels? Yes.
Fold for storage? Yes.Why we love it: The younger, smaller sister of the original Hydrow Rower, the Wave, is 30 per cent smaller and lighter, making it a more compact and portable rower (so it’s easier to store when not in use). In fact, an optional Vertical Anchor (£156) lets you easily store the rower off the floor, freeing up precious floor space.
Available in four vibrant colours; ‘river’ blue, ‘forest’ green, ‘sunrise’ yellow and ‘sunset’ orange (plus, classic black), the Hydrow Wave Rower definitely adds a splash of colour to any room. The HD touchscreen on the Hydrow Wave Rower is a little smaller than the original (16 inch vs 22 inch), but it doesn’t have any adjustability – so you can’t tilt or pivot it.
Even with its more affordable price tag, the Hydrow Wave Rower still features some of the best aspects of the original, such as the ‘drag’ sensation to give you a real-life feel of working out on the water and the seamless connectivity that syncs performance data with an Apple watch and Strava.
Working on a subscription model, just like it’s predecessor, you need to pay for a monthly subscription in order to access any of the classes. But the classes are good – and we love that they’re filmed on the water.
Size: L80in x W19in x H43in.
Connectivity: Bluetooth / Wi-Fi - including an app.
Resistance: Water.
Maximum user weight: 170kg.
Transportation wheels? No.
Fold for storage? No.Why we love it: Echelon is one of those well-known, big-label brands in the world of home fitness machines, so it should be no surprise to see we're fans of their rowing machine. The Echelon Row has remained a top pick from the brand since it launched in 2020.
With a foldable design and built-in wheels, the Echelon Row easy-ish to move (it's not light!) so you can store it conveniently. Perfect if floor space is at a premium.
It connects to Echelon Fit app so you can push yourself with both pre-recorded and live studio-quality workouts, where you can see how you rank against others, as well as the usual rowing metrics like resistance level and stroke count. But the main downside? You have to pay for separately for the app subscription and supply your own screen (there isn't one built in, unfortunately). It also connects via your iOS or Android device. Still, it's a cheaper option than the Hydrow.
As well as the membership options for content (starting from £19.99), the Echelon Row easily syncs with apps, such as Strava Apple Health and Fitbit. Two buttons on the handle allow you to swiftly increase or decrease resistance.
What makes this rower stand out is its connected content on the app: you can choose from hundreds of on demand and live classes (up to five each day). It's great for scheduled training, finding a suitable session when time is tight and for learning about correct rowing technique.
Size: L85 x W21 x H44 inch.
Connectivity: To the Echelon app and also via iOS and Android to apps, such as Strava Apple Health and Fitbit.
Resistance: Magnetic resistance (1–32 levels).
Maximum user weight: 136kg.
Transportation wheels? Yes.
Fold for storage? Yes.
Why we love it: NordicTrack have form when it comes to producing high-quality, robust gym equipment. The NordicTrack RW900 is no exception: it's sleek, well-built and feels oh-so professional.
This is NordicTrack’s latest rowing machine and it uses magnetic resistance, so it’s super quiet. The 22inch touchscreen tilts and pivots so you can take any of their non-rowing classes off the rower really easily. This newer model doesn’t fold, but it can be stored upright (just as long as your ceiling is tall enough).
It feels super solid and sturdy, thanks to it’s steel stabilisers and also it’s oversized rail. We especially liked how the handle is angled ever-so slightly, but it’s the console (paired with some excellent front-facing speakers) that really made this rowing machine stand out to us. All the iFit classes – bespoke to NordicTrack – come free for the first 30 days, and there are thousands of classes and challenges to choose from… meditation, yoga, mat Pilates, you aren’t just limited to rowing.
What makes this rower so great in our eyes, is its SmartAdjust technology which lets the machine do the work of automatically adjusting the resistance according to the trainer’s programme, while you focus on sweating it out. Its pre-recorded outdoor workouts are amazing too - matching the wind and water conditions you're watching on the screen.
Size: L81 x W22cm x H56 inches.
Connectivity: Wireless bluetooth.
Resistance: Magnetic.
Maximum user weight: 113kg.
Transportation wheels? Yes.
Fold for storage: No.Why we love it: You don't need to spend a fortune to feel the benefits of using (or owning) a rowing machine. The Concept2 RowErg rowing machine, with plenty of five star reviews, is a case in point. It may not come with all the bells and whistles of the higher-end models but it still delivers a damn good workout and feels sturdy during it too.
Its flywheel design minimises noise while maximising a smooth feel, plus it includes a PM5 monitor, giving accurate and comparable data for every row (batteries are required though for the monitor). You can keep an eye on the distance, time, stroke rate, watts, calories and splits on the monitor as you go for it on the rowing machine.
You can also adjust the monitor arm, seat height and footrests, plus it features a nickel-plated chain, adjustable footrests and ergonomic handle. Fans of the product highly rate the Concept2 RowErg rowing machine for being straightforward to assemble and its free app for iOS and Android devices, theErgData, which allows you to not only see your progress, but also join in with virtual challenges with others.
Oh, AND it easily separates into two for storage and has wheels, making it a fab option for those with smaller living spaces.
Size: H48 x W28 x D111 inches.
Connectivity: ANT+ and Bluetooth.
Resistance: Air - with variable tension control.
Maximum user weight: 135kg.
Transportation wheels? Yes.
Fold for storage? Yes.Save when you shop for the best rowing machines with these Argos discount codes.
Why we love it: With such an iconic design, this rowing machine deserves somewhere other than a messy garage to be used (and displayed). I mean, look at it: it's a piece of art. No, genuinely; the Original Series WaterRower has been displayed in New York’s Museum of Modern Art and London’s Design Museum.
It almost needs a Scandi style decor to be positioned against, but alas our London flat will have to do. Aesthetics aside, this WaterRower has a lot of other plus points to recommend it too. WaterRower say its machine is “widely regarded as the most realistic simulator of on-water rowing” and we think that's a fair description.
With the resistance focused on water, rather than air or magnetic options, the rower offers a smooth, even stroke that's said to place minimal strain on joints and the lower back. You don't have to fiddle with damper settings either, as the harder you row the harder the resistance gets in return. Paddles inside the water tank create the drag and you can see your performance data on the small monitor to the right hand side, so it feels a little less techy than the other options on this list.
There are a few types of WaterRower available (including a couple of other – cheaper – options on this list), but this is the best out of all the WaterRower machines because it has both Bluetooth and SmartRow technology. SmartRow is essentially a power meter that tracks your performance, measuring absolute and stroke length to calculate power. Oh, and it’s got the British Rowing's (the national governing body for rowing in the UK) seal of approval too. In fact, a portion of the proceeds from every sale are donated to British Rowing to support the growth of grassroots rowing nationwide.
The WateRower Original series is available in a range of sustainably sourced hardwoods to suit your style, including ash, oak, cherry and walnut. Parts come with a three-year warranty and the frame has a five-year warranty. While it can't be folded or taken apart for storage, the rower can be stood on its end for space-saving storage and it comes with transportation guide-wheels making it easier for moving around the home.
Size: H24 x W25 x L95 inches.
Connectivity: Bluetooth.
Resistance: Water.
Maximum user weight: 315kg.
Transportation wheels? Yes.
Fold for storage? No.
How to use a rowing machine:
Using a rowing machine can seem a little intimidating at first, but it's actually fairly easy to use.
- Adjust the resistance: The first thing you want to do is set the resistance on your rowing machine (the dial is usually near the flywheel or on the display console). “If using a Concept2 or a rower with a resistance setting, you first set the resistance to your desired number. One is the least resistance with 10 being the most resistance. For beginners, I'd recommend starting with seven and adjusting depending on feel,” say Nickol Flood, head of experience and head coach at ROWBOTS.
- Sit down and adjust foot straps: Take a seat on the rowing machine and adjust the foot straps so that your feet are securely in place. “Make sure your foot strap goes across the widest part of the foot and enough space for your heels to lift when your knees are in a full knee bend position,” adds Flood.
- Grasp the handle: Reach forward and grasp the handle with both hands, keeping your arms straight and your shoulders relaxed and away from your ears. “Take a wide grip on the hand bar,” says Flood.
- Row: To start rowing, you want to “lean your body towards the screen and drive through your legs,” says Flood. “As your heels hit the foot plate, lean back to finish your stroke by pulling the handle just below chest height.” Your elbows should remain close to your body as you pull.
- Return to starting position: Once you've pulled the handle towards your chest, reverse the motion and return to the starting position. “With your arms, body and legs locked out, lean forwards and allow your body to hinge, taking you back to the knee bend position, heels lifted and ready to drive away through the legs.”
What are the different types of rowing machines?
- Magnetic rowers: “Magnetic rowers use a magnetic brake to regulate the resistance – this affords a quiet, near-silent experience making it great for at-home use,” Browne told us. “You'll also get an incredibly smooth action which can make workouts more fun and satisfying, and magnetic rowers typically feature a wide range of adjustable resistance. Magnetic rowers are also low maintenance and tend to be more compact, sometimes featuring a less space-dominating, foldable design.”
- Water rowers: “Water rowers consist of fan blades gliding through a water reservoir, and to alter the resistance, more water is added. They're generally quiet, although not as quiet as magnetic options. Some will like the infinite levels of resistance a water rower provides, and they can give you a feeling that you're rowing on water.”
- Hydraulic rowers: “Hydraulic rowers are typically relatively compact and tend to be on the more affordable side,” Browne said. “Hydraulic rowers provide a full-body, efficient workout utilising all the major muscle groups. Still, some rowers find them the most outdated option, perhaps and not supportive of the smoothest rowing action.”
How much do you need to spend on a rowing machine?
That's a good question. Many of the higher end options won't leave you much change from £2,000, but that doesn't mean that there aren't cheaper rowing machines worth your time. It all depends on what you want out of it. High-tech specs and finishes are going to cost, but if you're just after something for your home workout without the bells and whistles, then it's worth checking out our best rowing machine for beginners and best for under £1,000.
Does the level of resistance on a rowing machine matter?
Short answer: yes. The type and level of resistance you opt for will determine the intensity, comfort and overall feel of your strength training. Depending on the type of rowing sessions that you want to do, the level of resistance on your fitness equipment may need adjusting, but remember that some brands differ on the options for this.
According to Browne, water rowers provide “infinite” levels of resistance, while magnetic rowers offer a wide range of adjustable air resistance.
What should you look for in a rowing machine?
- A guarantee on the frame. Our first top tip: make sure your indoor rowing machine comes with at least a three to five-year guarantee on the frame. It's also worth checking if the company provides any other guarantees for the separate parts.
- How much floor space does it take up? This seems obvious, but you’ll want to check whether your swanky new water rowing machine will actually fit in your home. If not, consider those that are foldable or can stand upright.
- On-demand classes. If you know you're the type of person who needs to be immersed in preset or live classes to really get into your workout, making sure your machine has some pre-programmed courses is key. Through high-tech LCD screens, many of the best smart rowers will enable you to compete against virtual components (or even just allow you to try and beat your PB without having to download a separate performance monitor). It’s like having your own personal trainer in the room.
- Rowing machine type. Time to get technical, 'cos there are loads of different types of rowing machines, from air rowing machines, to magnetic rowing machines, to water rowers, to hydraulic rowers - and you need to consider which will be best for your needs.
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