Rowing machines

Would you like to train your entire body in one go, work on your fitness and perhaps lose weight — but prefer to train when it suits you or have no desire to row on the water? Then a rowing machine is the ideal fitness machine for home use. With a rowing machine you can comfortably work from home on improving your fitness, losing weight, staying fit or rehabilitating. A rowing machine engages a very large number of muscles, enabling you to achieve all your training goals.

The range extends from rowing machines with water resistance for the most natural rowing feel, magnetic-resistance rowing machines for a quiet and precisely adjustable resistance, to foldable rowing machines for those who want to reclaim their space after training. The key selection criteria are the resistance system, stability, maximum user height and weight, the training computer and the usage class.

What is a rowing machine?

A rowing machine mimics the rowing motion of actual rowing on water, allowing you to train your entire body from home in one smooth movement. The rowing motion consists of two phases: the drive phase where you extend your legs and pull the handle towards you, and the recovery phase where you return the handle and bend your knees. This simultaneously trains your legs, arms, back, core and shoulders.

Why choose a rowing machine?

A rowing machine is one of the most complete fitness machines for home use. The combination of full-body training, low joint impact and effective calorie burning makes it an excellent choice for athletes of all levels.

• Full-body workout engaging almost all muscle groups
• High calorie burn through the combination of strength and cardio
• Low impact on joints, no shock loading
• Simultaneously improves fitness, muscle strength and endurance
• Train when it suits you, regardless of the weather
• Suitable for beginners and experienced athletes alike

Read our blog 7 tips for buying a rowing machine for in-depth purchasing guidance.

Which rowing machine suits you?

You want the most natural rowing feel: Choose a rowing machine with water resistance. The resistance automatically adapts to your effort, just like rowing on open water.

You want to precisely adjust resistance and train quietly: Choose a magnetic-resistance rowing machine. Ideal for home use in an apartment.

You have limited space: Choose a foldable rowing machine. After training, fold it compactly away.

You want to save money on the purchase: View our range of used rowing machines with warranty.

You are looking for something for a gym or practice: Choose a professional model. View our professional rowing machines.

Types of rowing machines

Water resistance

Resistance automatically adapts to the force of your strokes. The most natural feel, no dead spot, smooth and shock-free workout.

Air resistance

Uses air through a fan. Adapts to your effort but produces more noise. Has a small dead spot after each stroke.

Magnetic resistance

The quietest option. Resistance is precisely adjustable. Ideal for rehabilitation and home use in apartments.

Foldable rowing machines

Specially designed for home athletes with limited space. Available in water, air and magnetic resistance variants.

Which muscles do you train?

Approximately 60% of the rowing motion is driven by the legs, 30% by the back and 10% by the arms. This makes rowing one of the most complete forms of cardiovascular exercise.

What to look for when buying?

Resistance system

Water resistance for the most natural feel, air resistance for automatic scaling, magnetic resistance for quiet and precise adjustability.

Stability

Rowing machines with dual rails are generally more stable. Check the frame construction.

Maximum user height

Taller than 1.95m? Always check the maximum user height. A rail that is too short prevents a full and efficient rowing stroke.

Training computer

A good computer shows distance, time, speed, calories, heart rate and strokes per minute.

Our advice: For home use, choose a rowing machine with water or magnetic resistance. Water resistance gives the most natural feel, magnetic resistance is the quietest option. Always consult your physiotherapist when using for rehabilitation.

Who is a rowing machine suitable for?

• Beginners who want to start full-body cardio training at home.
• Experienced athletes who want to combine fitness and muscle strength.
• Athletes who want to lose weight through high calorie burn and full-body activation.
• People in rehabilitation who need low-impact training. Always consult your physiotherapist.
• Commercial users such as gyms and physiotherapy practices.

Need help choosing?

Would you like to buy a rowing machine but are not sure which model suits you? We are happy to help. Contact us via our contact page or visit our showroom.

Frequently asked questions about rowing machines

What is the difference between water and air resistance?

With water resistance a wheel moves through water, with air resistance a fan moves through air. Both adapt the resistance to your effort. Water resistance gives no dead spot and feels slightly more natural. Air resistance has a small dead spot after each stroke.

Is a rowing machine suitable for rehabilitation?

Yes, depending on the condition. The low-impact motion is good and easy to dose. Magnetic resistance is recommended for rehabilitation. Always consult your physiotherapist first.

How much space do I need?

An average rowing machine is 2.0 to 2.5 metres long and 50 to 60 cm wide. Always measure your space first.

Can I lose weight with a rowing machine?

Yes. Full-body activation burns significantly more calories per session. Combine with a healthy diet for the best results.