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Rowing combines cardio, strength and endurance training into one efficient workout, helping you build fitness, increase stamina and challenge multiple muscle groups at the same time.
A rowing machine is one of the most versatile pieces of home fitness equipment you can buy, delivering a low-impact workout that challenges almost your entire body while helping improve cardiovascular fitness.
Whether your goal is to build endurance, support weight loss, boost general fitness or create a more complete home gym, a rowing machine can deliver serious results without the impact that comes with running.
But with different resistance types, sizes, designs and features to compare, from touchscreens to built-in workouts, choosing the right rower can feel a little overwhelming. The best option comes down to how you'll use it, where it will live and what will keep you motivated to train consistently.
If you can try a rowing machine in person before you buy, whether in a gym or at your local rebel store, it's a great way to get a feel for the rowing motion, resistance style and features you'll actually use.
For everything else, this guide breaks down what to look for so you can confidently choose the best rowing machine for your fitness goals, home setup and budget.
Quick answer: What rowing machine should I buy?
For most home gyms, a magnetic rowing machine is a great all-round choice because it's quiet, smooth and low maintenance. Choose a water rower if you want a more realistic rowing feel, or an air rower if you prefer a gym-style workout that responds to how hard you train.
Why Choose a Rowing Machine?
Few cardio machines deliver a workout quite like a rowing machine. Research published in the Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise journal found that, with proper form, rowing engages more than 80% of the body's muscles, working everything from your legs and core to your back, shoulders and arms. It combines cardio, strength and endurance training into one efficient workout, helping you build fitness, increase stamina and challenge multiple muscle groups at the same time.
A rowing machine is a great choice if you:
- Want a full-body workout
- Need a lower-impact alternative to running
- Want to improve cardiovascular fitness
- Have limited time for training
- Prefer one machine that can do multiple jobs
- Are building a home gym
It may be particularly useful for people returning from a training hiatus, or those looking for joint-friendly exercise, or anyone wanting variety in their cardio routine.
The Benefits of Using a Rowing Machine
Full-body workout
Rowing recruits multiple muscle groups at once, helping you get more from every session.
Low-impact exercise
Because your feet remain planted and the movement is smooth, rowing places less stress on your knees, ankles and hips compared to high-impact activities.
Excellent cardiovascular training
Rowing gets your heart rate up, building fitness and endurance while burning calories.
Suitable for most fitness levels
Resistance can be adjusted to suit beginners, everyday exercisers and experienced athletes alike.
Efficient for busy schedules
Because you're combining strength and cardio training, shorter workouts can still be highly effective.
Before You Buy: Ask Yourself These 4 Questions
1. What Are Your Fitness Goals?
At the end of the say, the best rowing machine depends on how you plan to use it.
For General Fitness and Cardio
Look for:
- Smooth resistance
- Comfortable seat
- Easy-to-read display
- Multiple workout programs
- Performance tracking
- Interval training programs
- Adjustable resistance levels
For Serious Training
Look for:
- Higher resistance capacity
- Advanced metrics
- App connectivity
- Durable commercial-style construction
2. How Much Space Do You Need for a Rowing Machine?
Many first-time buyers underestimate how long rowing machines are.
Because rowers can take up a decent amount of floor space, it's worth thinking about where the machine will live when you're not using it. Foldable designs, upright storage and transport wheels can make it much easier to move your rower out of the way between workouts if space is an issue.
Before purchasing, it's a good idea to measure your available space and consider machine length, width, ceiling height, and clearance for getting on and off.
3. What Type of Rowing Machine Suits You Best?
Water, Air or Magnetic: Resistance Types
When shopping for a rowing machine, it's important to find a model that fits the way you want to train. Resistance type has a big impact on how a rowing machine feels, sounds (yes, some are louder than others) and performs, but there isn't one single style that's best for everyone.
Water, air, magnetic and hydraulic rowers all offer a slightly different experience, so the right choice comes down to your space, budget, fitness goals and what will keep you motivated to row regularly.
Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machines
Magnetic resistance rowing machines use magnets to create resistance as you row, giving you a smooth, controlled feel without the louder fan noise of an air rower. They're often a great choice for home gyms, apartments or shared living spaces because they're quiet, low maintenance and easy to adjust.
Best for:
- Apartments
- Shared living spaces
- Early morning workouts
Pros:
- Quiet operation
- Adjustable resistance levels
- Low maintenance
- Smooth rowing action
Things to consider:
- May not feel quite as realistic as water or air rowers
Air Resistance Rowing Machines
Air rowing machines use a fan to create resistance, so the harder and faster you row, the more resistance you generate. They're a popular choice for gym-style training, HIIT sessions and users who want a responsive workout that naturally adapts to their effort, though they can be louder than magnetic rowers.
Best for:
- Fitness enthusiasts
- HIIT workouts
- Performance-focused training
Pros:
- Dynamic workout
- Popular in gyms and functional fitness spaces
- Suitable for all fitness levels
Things to consider:
- Louder due to the fan mechanism
Water Resistance Rowing Machines
Water rowers use a water-filled tank to create resistance, giving each stroke a smooth, natural feel that closely mimics rowing on water. The resistance naturally increases the harder you row, making them a great option for users who want a realistic rowing experience and don't mind a slightly larger, heavier machine.
Best for:
- Realistic rowing feel, premium home gyms and users who enjoy a smooth, natural stroke
- Users seeking a realistic rowing feel
- Premium home gyms
Water rowers use a water-filled flywheel to create resistance, closely replicating the feel of rowing on water. Resistance naturally increases as you row harder, creating a smooth, responsive workout.
- Natural rowing sensation
- Smooth stroke feel
- Relaxing water sound
- Often suited to premium home gym setups
Things to consider:
- Generally more expensive
- Heavier to move
- Water tank maintenance (including treating the water every few months depending on model)
4. What Features Will You Actually Use in a Rowing Machine?
Display and Performance Tracking Features
A basic performance monitor may be enough if you like tracking your own progress and are after basic workouts, while a smart rower with a touchscreen can be helpful if guided workouts, coaching and variety keep you motivated.
The same goes for built-in technology. Some people will get everything they need from simple stats like time, distance and strokes per minute, while others may find a larger screen, guided workouts or app connectivity worth the extra spend. The best features to pay for are the ones you'll actually use.
Monitors can help keep you motivated and track progress.
Basic metrics can include:
- Time
- Distance
- Calories burned
- Stroke rate
- Pace
- Heart rate compatibility
More advanced models may also offer:
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Interactive workouts
- Fitness apps
- Touchscreens or smart training experiences
- Virtual training experiences
Some smart rowing machines may also require an ongoing membership or app subscription to access certain workouts and features, so it's worth checking what's included before you buy.
Seat Comfort
The seat might seem like a weird feature to think about, but you'll spend plenty of time sitting while rowing, so you'll want to factor in comfort.
Look for:
- Ergonomic design
- Adequate cushioning
- Smooth rail movement
A comfortable seat can make longer sessions much more enjoyable.
Footrests and Adjustability
Not all users are built the same.
Adjustable footplates allow for:
- Better comfort
- Improved technique
- More efficient power transfer
Build Quality
If you're planning to row several times a week, durability matters.
Look for:
- Sturdy steel frames
- Higher user weight capacities
- Commercial-grade components
- Strong warranty coverage
- Appropriate maximum user weight and rail length
Are Weight Limits Important?
If you're concerned about whether a piece of fitness equipment can comfortably support your body weight, a rowing machine may be worth considering.
Many rowing machines are designed with higher maximum user weight capacities than other popular cardio machines. For example, some premium rowers can accommodate users weighing up to 225kg, while many treadmills have limits closer to 135-150kg.
Combined with their low-impact nature, this can make rowing machines an appealing option for people starting their fitness journey, returning to exercise, or looking for a comfortable and confidence-building way to improve their fitness at home.
Before purchasing, always check the manufacturer's maximum user weight specification to ensure the machine is suitable for your needs.
What Size Rower Do I Need?
A longer rail generally accommodates a more natural rowing stroke, and specific tall rowing machines are available.
Taller users should pay particular attention to:
- Rail length
- Maximum user height recommendations
- Seat travel distance
Which Rowing Machine Is Best?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are a few things that might help.
If you want
Consider
Quiet workouts
Magnetic rower
Gym-style training
Air rower
Realistic rowing feel
Water rower
Compact footprint
Foldable rower
Connected workouts and/or AI Coach
Smart-enabled rower
At the end of the day, the best rowing machine is the one you'll use consistently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are rowing machines good for beginners?
Yes. They are suitable for a wide range of fitness levels and allow you to control workout intensity easily.
Can a rowing machine help with weight loss?
When combined with a balanced diet and consistent exercise routine, rowing can support calorie expenditure and overall fitness goals.
According to Harvard Health, rowing can be an effective way to burn calories while building cardiovascular fitness. In a vigorous 30-minute rowing session, a person weighing around 57kg can burn approximately 255 calories, while someone weighing 70kg may burn around 369 calories. For a person weighing 84kg, that figure rises to approximately 440 calories.
While calorie burn varies based on factors like workout intensity, age and fitness level, rowing provides an efficient full-body workout that engages multiple muscle groups at once. Combined with a healthy, balanced diet, regular rowing can help support weight management, improve fitness and contribute to overall wellbeing.
Is rowing bad for your knees?
Generally, rowing is considered a lower-impact form of exercise because your feet stay supported and the movement is smooth, making it a joint-friendly cardio option for many compared with activities like running.
How often should I use a rowing machine?
That depends on your goals, but many people benefit from incorporating rowing into their weekly fitness routine alongside strength training and recovery days.
Are rowing machines better than treadmills?
It depends on your goals. Rowing machines offer a low-impact, full-body workout, while treadmills are ideal for walking and running-focused training.
What is the best rowing machine for home use?
The best rowing machine for home use depends on your space, budget and training style. Magnetic rowers are often popular for quieter homes, while water and air rowers can suit users who want a more dynamic or realistic rowing feel.
What is better: a rowing machine or an exercise bike?
Both can support cardio fitness, but they work your body differently. Rowing offers more of a full-body workout, while an exercise bike is usually more lower-body focused and may feel easier to use for longer steady-state sessions.
Do rowing machines take up a lot of space?
Rowing machines can be longer than many people expect, so it's worth measuring your space before buying. If you have limited room, look for foldable designs, upright storage or transport wheels.
Ready to Shop?
Discover the full range of rowing machines from rebel now or head in-store and talk to one of our friendly staff to help you choose the right one for you.
References
- Ingham, S.A., Carter, H., Whyte, G.P. & Doust, J.H. (2008). Physiological and Performance Effects of Low- versus Mixed-Intensity Rowing Training. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 40(3), 579-584. https://doi.org/10.1249/MSS.0b013e31815ecc6a
- Harvard Health Publishing. (2021). Calories burned in 30 minutes for people of three different weights. Harvard Health Publishing, March 8, 2021. Accessed September 7, 2026. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/diet-and-weight-loss/calories-burned-in-30-minutes-for-people-of-three-different-weights