Rowing Machines

Would you like to train your entire body at once, work on your fitness and perhaps lose weight? But do you prefer to train when it suits you or do you not feel like training on the water? Then a rowing machine is the ideal fitness equipment for your home. With a rowing machine you can work in the comfort of your home to improve your fitness whenever it suits you. Whether your goal is to improve your fitness, lose weight, stay fit or perhaps you even need to rehabilitate. With a rowing machine you engage a very large number of muscles with which you can achieve all your set goals.

What is a rowing machine?

A rowing machine, also known as rowing machine, rowing machine and rower, is a special fitness equipment that allows you to work on improving your health from home. A rowing machine imitates as much as possible the rowing motion of real rowing on water. This gives you the opportunity to train your entire body at once. Partly because of this, it is also one of the most popular fitness equipment for home use and in the gym. By using a rowing machine you work on your personal goal of becoming fitter, strengthening your physique, gaining more muscles and becoming more energetic.

What are the benefits of training with a rowing machine?

It is no coincidence that rowing machines are one of the most popular fitness equipment. There are many different advantages to training with a rower, such as:

• Go for a full body workout, train your entire body

This is surely the most important advantage. With a rowing machine you work (almost) all your muscle groups, from your legs to your arms and shoulders, but your stomach and back are also put to work. For the most optimal results and a safe workout, it is important to maintain a good rowing movement. Then the risk of injuries and complaints is significantly reduced and you train more effectively.

• Burn calories, lose weight and get fitter

Would you like to lose weight? Then a rowing machine is perfect. You can burn a lot of calories during your workouts, partly because you always train your entire body. The amount of calories you can burn naturally varies per person. Just think about your physique, your weight and how often and intensively you train.

Another pleasant side effect is that in addition to burning your calories, you also work on your fitness. As a result, you will see that after a while of rowing you become more and more energetic and feel more like doing even more things.

• Train comfortably at home (indoors) whenever you want

Maybe you don't have the opportunity to row on open water. Fortunately, with a rowing machine you can work on your cardio in the comfort of your home at any time of the day. This way you can always continue training during the colder winter months and you don't have to go out on the water during bad weather. Do you normally train in the gym? Then with your own rowing machine you can also save on the travel time you normally need to go to the gym.

• No shock loads on your joints

The movements you make during your workout on a rowing machine are always even and smooth. Your joints are subject to less strain compared to, for example, a treadmill, which reduces the risk of possible injuries. Maintaining a good posture and rowing technique is of course important. This is a so-called low impact exercise. Compared to running, your knees and ankles absorb the blow every time you put your feet down.

• Easy to get started with

Are you just starting to exercise? Or would you like to expand your training with cardio? Then a rowing machine is ideal. They are easy and accessible to use. Fortunately, these are not difficult exercises or postures that you have to learn.

For rowing it is important to sit down properly, grab the handle and with a straight back, pull the handle towards you and then slowly release it again. This simplicity makes rowing suitable for many people to start with.

• Don't drift, stay in control

With a rowing machine you have full control over your training. This is in contrast to rowing in open water. Although rowing in open water is a lot of fun, it is not always optimal for training. The water can be perfectly calm at certain times and places, but at other times it can be a lot rougher, meaning you have to push hard. Or there is suddenly pressure on the water from other users, meaning you can no longer row comfortably. With a rowing machine at home you don't have this problem and you can train whenever you want. If you want to row to lose weight, for example, you can adjust the intensity of the rower yourself and make it a little heavier each time. Or maybe you would like to row to stay fit? A home rower is also ideal in that case.

What types of rowing machines are there?

You can find rowing machines in every gym, but you also see them more and more often in people's homes. There are numerous options for rowing machines to choose from. A distinction can simply be made between five types of rowing machines, namely: air resistance, water resistance, magnetic resistance, hydraulic resistance rowers and the latest rowing machines have a combination of magnet and air resistance. 

• Air resistance

This type of rower uses air to regulate resistance. The resistance will increase as you train more and exert more force. The great thing about rowers with air resistance is that the rowing strokes are shock-free and almost fluid due to the air resistance. However, there is a slight discomfort with air resistance rowing machines, as there is a “dead moment” after each rowing stroke. The propeller must then catch its moment again.

• Water resistance

This type of rowers uses a water resistance system. These rowing machines come closest to a true-to-life feeling. The resistance for this type of rowers is adjusted to the force of the rowing strokes you make. So the harder you row, the stronger the resistance will be. There are no dead moments for rowers with water resistance. So you have a more comfortable and smoother workout.

• Magnet resistance

These rowers use a magnet as a resistance system. In these types of systems, the magnet is placed closer to (or further away from) the flywheel to provide you with the correct resistance. Rowers with a magnet system produce relatively little noise for a pleasant workout. For rowers with a magnetic resistance, the resistance does not depend on how intensively you train, but the resistance can often be set using a display or a rotary knob. With these rowers you can determine the desired resistance most accurately. With these rowers, the “dead moment” of the propeller is absorbed by the magnet. The magnet tries to imitate the rowing stroke. This can feel more unnatural than rowing with water or air resistance. As a result, rowing machines with magnetic resistance are less often chosen compared to water and air rowers.

• Hydraulic resistance

Rowing machines with hydraulic resistance use two cylinders filled with gas. They are generally a bit wider and therefore require a little more space. The resistance is determined by the position of the cylinders. This type of rowing machine mimics the “rowing” feeling the least. We do not have this type of rowing machine in our range because they wear out faster and produce a less comfortable rowing stroke than the other resistances.

What should you pay attention to when buying a rowing machine?

If you want to buy a rowing machine, there are several important points you should look at for the perfect machine. The rower must be suitable for you and meet all your wishes and needs. That is why we would like to take you further into the details of rowing machines.

• Stability of the rowing machine
• Maximum body length
• Maximum loadable weight
• Use class of the rowing machine
• Resistance systems
• Folding mechanism and transport wheels
• Training computer
• Heart rate monitor
• Training programs
• Production noise during training noise level

Stability of the rowing machine

If you want to row intensively, it is important that your rowing machine remains sturdy and stable. The weight and size of the rowing machine play an important role in this.
But the structure of the rower also plays an important role. Rowing machines with double rails are generally a lot more stable than rowers with single rails. However, there are some exceptions. There are rowing machines that have a very strong frame beam with double bearings, which also improves stability.

Are you going for a higher model rowing machine? Then the frame is extra important, the construction must be sturdy enough. If the frame is not strong enough, the rower can move during your training, which makes your workouts less comfortable.

Maximum body length

This will not apply to everyone, but it is important in your choice. If you are taller than +/- 195cm, you may not be able to achieve the full result on a smaller (shorter) rowing machine because you cannot make the optimal rowing movement due to rails that are too short. That is why it is important to look at your own body size and the length of the rowing machine. You will always find the dimensions of the device for each rower. With some rowing machines it is possible to order extra long rails.

Maximum loadable weight

The maximum loadable weight also indicates to a certain extent the quality of the rowing machine. A higher load-bearing weight means that the rower can handle more and is sturdier. The maximum loadable weight can differ per device. Suppose the rower can handle up to 100kg while you weigh 120kg, then the machine may wear out more quickly or sustain damage. We therefore recommend that you always go for a machine that can handle 10 to 20 kg more than you weigh yourself.

Use class of the rowing machine

Would you like to use the rowing machine several times a week? Or maybe you are looking for a rower for your physio practice or hotel. Whether you are an intensive user or a regular user, we always have the rowing machine that best suits your wishes and needs. For professional use you will have different wishes than for a home trainer.

Resistance systems

A rowing machine is designed with one of the following resistance systems: air resistance, water resistance, magnetic resistance or hydraulic resistance. You can read how these resistance systems work and what the differences are under What types of rowing machines are there?

Folding mechanism and transport wheels

Some rowing machines have a handy folding mechanism. This allows you to store your rower easily and space-savingly after training for the next workout. Do you want to be able to easily move the rower after your training? Then it is also useful if there are transport wheels. This way you can easily move and store the rower yourself if you don't want to leave it in your room. You can also easily store the rowing machines with a water tank upright, so you don't have to let the water run out before storing them.

Training computer

A training computer is an important part of your rowing machine. This gives you more insight into your training data. Depending on how extensive the training computer is, you can often find the following data: the distance rowed, training time, speed, your calorie consumption, heart rate and rowing strokes per minute. This way you can train more effectively and go one step further with every workout. Depending on the rowing machine, a heart rate receiver is sometimes built in. However, you may also have to purchase these separately.

For some rowers it is possible to link this to various training apps. It is nice if the display is illuminated so that you can read the data clearly. And of course the training computer must be easy and simple to operate.

Heart rate monitor

Would you like to train to lose weight? Then you can go for heart rate zone-oriented workouts. With this way of training you can burn calories optimally and efficiently. With a heart rate monitor such as a chest strap or wristband you can keep track of whether you are training at the right level to lose weight. With some rowing machines you can show your heart rate on the display.

Training programs

Training programs can help you achieve your set goals. With a good and fun training program you can make exercise more varied and achieve your goals faster. Various rowing machines have pre-programmed workouts so you can get started right away. Sometimes you can also set your own training programs.

Production noise during training noise level

Do you want a rowing machine that is as quiet as possible? Then it is important to look at the type of resistance system. Every rowing machine deals with noise production differently. An air resistance system generally produces the most sound when you do a workout. And a magnetic resistance system is the quietest variant.

Which muscles do you train with a rowing machine?

With a rowing machine you can stimulate a lot of your muscles. That is why rowing training is also called a full-body workout. You can train both your upper and lower body at the same time. Muscles that you work hard include your back muscles, abdominal muscles, arm muscles, thigh muscles, but also your hamstrings and glutes are not spared. This is due to the pulling 'rowing' movement you make.

Who is a rowing machine suitable for?

The nice thing about a rowing machine is that it is suitable for anyone who wants to get fitter and stay fit. Whether you are a novice athlete or experienced with a rowing machine, you can never go wrong.

Is a rowing machine also suitable for rehabilitation?

Certain rowing machines can also be used for rehabilitation. Suppose you need to strengthen your shoulders, arms or legs, you can do this with a special rowing machine for rehabilitation such as the E550, E750, E850 or the E950. For rehabilitation, we recommend that you always consult your doctor or physiotherapist first.

With these special rowing machines that are very suitable for rehabilitation purposes, you can set yourself (or the physiotherapist) how long and how fast you should train. For the majority of rowers, you can adjust the intensity of the training yourself, from a gentle rowing trip to an intensive workout. Depending on the rower, a higher seat or chair is available to provide better support for your body.

Can you lose weight by training with a rowing machine?

It is certainly possible to lose weight by training on a rowing machine. The rowing machine provides you with a full body workout in which your entire body is actively engaged. To lose weight, it is important to pay close attention to your diet and to exercise consistently. The most optimal way to lose weight is to train in the right heart rate zones.

Need help with your choice?

Would you like to buy a rowing machine? But are you still not sure which one would best suit your wishes and needs? We will be happy to help you with all your questions. You can reach our rowing machine specialists by telephone at +31(0)413-256800 or send an e-mail. Or visit our store in Volkel, the Netherlands.