8 best rowing machines

Ratings of the best sports and leisure goods

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

The rowing machine was created as an alternative to boat rowing in a gym or at home: the training process combines cardio and strength exercises, thus, the muscles of the body from the shoulder girdle to the lower back and the press are efficiently and quickly worked out, calories are burned in an enhanced mode.

There are 3 types of rowing machines by type of work:

  1. Mechanical ones are driven by the movement of the body, the transfer of the load is carried out mainly by the piston system or, less often, belts.

  2. The magnetic is equipped with a powerful magnet that creates a resistance field. Rotating in it, the flywheel transfers the load to the working parts of the mechanism as smoothly as possible.

  3. The aerodynamic simulator is equipped with a fan, the load is set by the air resistance in combination with the internal mechanisms of the structure, in particular the air dampers.

How to choose a rowing machine

When choosing a rowing machine, experts advise paying attention to several device parameters:

  1. The athlete's weight should be calculated as the actual weight of a person + 15 … 20 kg. In this case, the simulator will perform its functions correctly with minimal wear and tear.

  2. The set of functions for professional use includes various programs, sensors for body parameters and training process.

  3. The presence of a display is essential for professional simulators: the screen allows you to track the dynamics of the training process. For home use, the display will also be useful if specific tasks are set for the athlete (gaining muscle mass, losing weight, etc.).

  4. The appearance, the ergonomic design, the possibility of adjusting the position of the seat determine the comfort of the practitioner.

  5. We present the rating of rowing machines from, based on the opinions of professional athletes, experts and ordinary users.

Rating of the best rowing machines

Nomination a place Name of product price
Best Mechanical Rowing Equipment 1 Kettler Kadett Rowing machine RUB 38 100
2 DFC R71061 RUB 15,990
Best Magnetic Rowing Equipment 1 Infiniti R200 RUB 79,990
2 Oxygen Typhoon Hrc RUB 39,990
3 INFINITI R70 34 900 rub.
4 DFC 7103 RUB 16 900
Best aerodynamic rowing machines 1 Concept2 E with PM5 Monitor RUB 134,500
2 NORDICTRACK RX 800 RUB 37 800

Best Mechanical Rowing Equipment

In mechanical propulsion systems, the load is caused by the resistance of the pistons in the hydraulic cylinders. With an uneven transmission of thrust, the training conditions are as close as possible to a real boat trip along the river, which can suit mostly beginner athletes and is not suitable for professionals. As a rule, such simulators have a standard set of functions, and the cost is loyal – from 10,000 rubles. Note that resistance makes itself felt: working components fail over time and require replacement.

Kettler Kadett Rowing machine

Rating: 4.9

Kettler Kadett Rowing machine

The design of this rowing machine is minimal: there is a movable seat with operating handles on the longitudinal frame, there are comfortable leg rests and a display. The device is foldable, as unnecessary it is transformed into a compact form of 150 x 50 x 46 cm and is removed for storage. True, the Kettler Kadett Rowing machine weighs a little (several tens of kilograms), and is not equipped with transport wheels. But the stability is excellent: the simulator is securely fixed with polymer stops on the floor and can withstand the user's weight up to 130 kilograms.

You can exercise in 12 power modes, the display showing the pulse, distance, calories, time in forward and reverse mode helps to monitor the dynamics and course of the workout. In addition, the software includes a 'Fitness Test' function to help you recover from intense exercise.

This functionality with a relatively small size made the Kettler Kadett Rowing machine the leader in the rating of mechanical rowing machines. In addition, its cost is quite acceptable and corresponds to the quality – about 39,900 rubles.

Advantages

  • 12 training modes;

  • Informative display;

  • Foldable design;

  • Ear clip-heart rate monitor included;

  • The position of the seat and stops is adjustable.

disadvantages

  • There are no transport wheels.

DFC R71061

Rating: 4.7

DFC R71061

The second place in the rating is given to a less durable rowing machine designed for only 100 kg of user. The design of the DFC R71061 is similar to that previously discussed, and there is also an adjustable seat and pedals position. Even the number of training modes is the same – 12. A mini-computer with a monochrome display runs on 2 AA batteries and displays all the information you need about training: heart rate, number of strokes, time, speed and calories consumed.

Resistance is provided by 2 hydraulic cylinders, each with a 12-stage load regulator.

Another reason why the DFC R71061 occupies the second line of the rating is its awkward design, that is, it will not be possible to simply put it away for storage as unnecessary without using tools. But the device takes up little space: 135 x 157 x 39 cm. The price is also pleasing – an average of 15,000 rubles.

Advantages

  • 12 load modes;

  • Informative computer;

  • Convenient adjustment of resistance cylinders;

  • Adjustable seat, foot rests and 3600 rotating handles;

  • Acceptable price.

disadvantages

  • The structure does not fold;

  • Limited user weight up to 100 kg.

Best Magnetic Rowing Equipment

Unlike devices with cylinders, rowing machines are equipped with a flywheel with a magnet that transfers the load to the handlebars evenly, thus providing a comfortable workout with an adjustable load on the muscles of the body, the amount of which can be adjusted. The devices are more functional due to the improved design and wide software of the embedded computers.

Infiniti R200

Rating: 4.9

Infiniti R200

The Infiniti R200 Magnetic Drive Rowing Machine is functional, suitable for home and commercial use. It is good with universal dimensions of 237 x 50 x 91 cm, suitable for a person of any height, a reinforced frame is designed for a user weighing up to 160 kg. A large polychrome monitor is placed on the body, displaying all training parameters in real time, and 15 diverse programs are recorded in the computer, including cardiological and recovery programs for the pulse. Reading of heart activity is carried out by an optional chest sensor, which, if necessary, will have to be purchased separately.

The simulator can be used simultaneously by 4 people, for each of them the dynamics will be recorded in personal profiles. The position of the seat and heel rests can be adjusted without problems, difficulties arise only when carrying the Infiniti R200 – it weighs all 56 kg, and has no transport wheels. It is the most functional rowing machine currently in existence in its respective category, and therefore ranks first in our ranking.

Advantages

  • Many training programs;

  • 4 users;

  • Ergonomic design with adjustable elements;

  • Large informative monitor;

  • Smooth regulation and load transfer.

disadvantages

  • The price is about 80,000 rubles.

Oxygen Typhoon Hrc

Rating: 4.8

Oxygen Typhoon Hrc

The device came in second place due to its relatively lower strength – only up to 130 kg of the user's weight, as well as due to the only provided user program. On the other hand, there are 16 pre-installed diversified modes for losing weight, strengthening the cardiovascular system and developing endurance, but they are not recorded over time if several people use the simulator.

The rowing machine is equipped with a bright LCD – display with a diagonal of 5.5 inches, showing all information about the workout, including the heart rate received by the built-in heart rate sensor. An optional wireless chest reader is available.

The design of the simulator is distinguished by its reliability: Japanese and Taiwanese components are used to assemble the electronics, the frame is made of a metal alloy coated in 2 layers with varnishing. The plastic used in production is certified as a safe material, it is also durable and durable: the heel stops and fasteners of the working part withstand significant forces within the specified value.

Advantages

  • Reliable and ergonomic design;

  • Deluxe seat;

  • Informative display;

  • Many training programs;

  • The optimal price is about 33,000 rubles.

disadvantages

  • Reduced load bearing capacity compared to the top rated machine.

  • There are no personal profiles in the software.

INFINITI R70

Rating: 4.7

INFINITI R70

The INFINITI R70 rowing machine is designed for an even more slender athlete than those presented above – people weighing up to 100 kg can exercise it. The seat position on an aluminum elongated frame adapts to any height, but the pedals are static, and you have to live with it.

Workout parameters are displayed on a large monochrome display, the position of which can be adjusted. The load is determined by six levels, but there are no programs as such, the athlete himself sets the desired data for the upcoming process, which combines aerobic and strength exercises for effective fat burning.

The design of the simulator is compact, the model is foldable, the first in the rating is equipped with transport rollers, although the device weighs relatively modestly – only 27 kg. Heart rate monitoring is carried out through sensors built into the handle, you can use an optional chest belt, but you will have to purchase it additionally. A nice addition is the built-in fan with adjustable air flow.

Advantages

  • Foldable model with transport wheels;

  • Comfortable, adjustable seat;

  • Relatively light weight;

  • One year warranty.

disadvantages

  • The price of about 35,000 rubles for this functionality seems overpriced.

  • Only 6 load levels.

  • There are no preinstalled programs.

DFC 7103

Rating: 4.6

DFC 7103

This rowing machine is suitable for training athletes weighing up to 100 kg, but mainly for beginners or with a benchmark for low load from a 7 kg flywheel, which is adjustable in 10 modes. The console displays workout time, stroke rate, calories and calories consumed, as well as a scan of the body condition through touch sensors in the handles.

The DFC 710 is foldable, weighs 26 kg, but this is enough for its stability. There are no transport wheels, as well as a special need for them. In general, this is a common rowing machine for the complex training of beginner athletes. Suitable as a device for strengthening muscles and maintaining a good body shape at home. The cost is fully consistent with the quality and functionality – about 17,000 rubles.

Advantages

  • 10 load levels with 7 kg flywheel;

  • Foldable design;

  • Position-adjustable console;

  • Light weight but good stability;

  • Affordable price.

disadvantages

  • Insufficient load for deep training;

  • There are no preinstalled programs.

Best aerodynamic rowing machines

In aerodynamic type simulators, the load comes from the fan due to air resistance. The intensity of loading is determined by the regulator of this parameter and occurs when the handrail is pulled. Its distribution is soft and smooth, and switching between modes is as correct as possible. In view of the high accuracy and manufacturability, aerodynamic simulators cost a lot, and this is their main drawback.

Concept2 E with PM5 Monitor

Rating: 4.9

Concept2 E with PM5 Monitor

The Concept2 E semi-professional trainer with PM5 monitor is recognized as the standard among equipment in this category. It is suitable for home and commercial use by beginners and advanced athletes. The model is distinguished by an increased seating position, which provides greater comfort during exercise.

The base of the rowing machine is an aluminum monorail of high reliability, for the convenience of training, pedals and their loops adjustable in position are provided, the structure is foldable, there are transport wheels for movement, and for reliable installation – compensators for uneven floors. The load is switched in 10 levels.

The dynamics of the lesson is monitored by a built-in console to which a chest heart rate sensor is connected. The monochrome display shows all the information about the workout, but the Russian language is not provided by the interface.

The package includes a USB cable to connect the console to a computer.

The functionality of the simulator is supported by a high price – about 104,000 rubles, and this is the only drawback of the device.

Advantages

  • Multi-stage loads;

  • Informative display;

  • Comfortable frame and seat;

  • Extended warranty for the frame (5 years), for components and electronics – 2 years;

  • Transport wheels and floor uneven compensators.

disadvantages

  • High price;

  • Lack of a Russian-language interface.

NORDICTRACK RX 800

Rating: 4.8

NORDICTRACK RX 800

The second place in the category of rating of aerodynamic rowing machines is occupied by the apparatus mainly for home use NORDICTRACK RX 800. It includes only 5 levels of load with manual adjustment with 20 ready-made training programs (10 for burning calories and 10 for watts), and heart rate control is not provided at all. even with optional sensors. The trainer can be used by athletes weighing up to 130 kg.

The dynamics of the workout is displayed on the extended console, the position (angle of inclination) of which can be adjusted. The ergonomic seat and soft handrails provide comfort during exercise. For music lovers, it is possible to connect a music player.

There are transport wheels, but there is no floor uneven compensator; you will need a base with a screed. The design is foldable and at the same time weighty – 45 kg, it is covered by a 2-year manufacturer's warranty. The cost of the device is about 38,000 rubles.

Advantages

  • 5 levels of load and 20 training programs;

  • Relatively low cost in comparison with the leader of the rating;

  • Comfortable seat on a steel frame.

disadvantages

  • There are no cardiac sensors and the ability to connect them;

  • No compensators for uneven floors.


Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

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