The Best Indoor Rowing Machines for Staying Active at Home

Rowing machines are an excellent exercise tool to use at the gym. A home indoor rowing machine allows you to get that same full body workout without leaving the house. The top five indoor rowing machines are reviewed below so you can pick the one that's right for you.

NordicTrack RW Rower

A High Quality Rowing Machine from a Trusted Brand

NordicTrack is known for providing excellent home workout equipment, and their indoor rowing machine does not disappoint.

Best Overall

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When you thing of NordicTrack, you likely think of high quality home workout equipment. This NordicTrack indoor rowing machine is just that. It’s built to last and designed with usability in mind. It’s made to help you get the best possible workout from each rowing session you partake in.

This indoor rowing machine has a large, HD touchscreen display, so you can watch workout programs with trainers as you row. You can purchase access to iFit, which is filled with workout videos and plans, if you would like to. It has 26 different levels of resistance that are actually modeled after different resistance levels that are found in real water. The machine is quiet, it folds up to save space when it’s not in use, and it’s made with an ergonomic seat to keep you comfortable while you exercise.

Pros:

Large touchscreen and iFit compatibility
Comfortable seat
Quiet rowing with varying levels of resistance

Cons:

This is one of the more expensive indoor rowing machines you can buy

Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine

A Rowing Machine Built for Tracking your Stats

You're likely working out with a goal of getting stronger or healthier. This machine tracks every little detail of your workout, so you can watch your progress as you go.

Runner-Up

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This is another high quality indoor rowing machine. It has smooth movement, low levels of noise, and 10 resistance levels. It’s easy to assemble, and it can be taken apart into two smaller pieces for easy storage. It’s even made with adjustable settings, so you can find the perfect setup for your personal preference.

Another great feature this machine has is its digital technology. It connects with your smartphone through bluetooth, and it can be used with a variety of fitness apps. The manufacturer has their own app, called ErgData, which allows you to store your workout data so you can review it easily at any time. You can even sign up for challenges or “Workout of the Day” emails from the Concept2 company to help you achieve your fitness goals.

Pros:

High quality machine
Adjustable settings
Many useful digital features

Cons:

This is again a more expensive option compared to other indoor rowing machines

Fitness Reality 1000 Plus Bluetooth Magnetic Rowing Machine

A Smartphone-Compatible Indoor Rowing Machine

This rowing machine is great if you like to have your workout details available in the palm of your hand.

Best Smartphone-Compatible Machine

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This is another great machine if you’re looking for something with a lot of digital features, and it’s available at a pretty affordable price. This indoor rowing machine uses something called “Smart Cloud Fitness.” It actually works through bluetooth, sending workout data to your smart device so you can easily view it at any time. It’s the only bluetooth-enabled rowing machine available for purchase today.

As for the technical aspects, this machine comes with 14 levels of resistance and an extremely comfortable handlebar. It’s even got front pads that can double as equipment for curls, upright rows, and many more upper body workouts.

Pros:

Bluetooth-enabled
Folds up for easy storage
Front pads can be used for different types of exercise

Cons:

Fewer comfort and workout features compared to the models shown above

Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine

An Extra Long Rowing Machine at an Affordable Price

This machine comes at a low price, but it's extra long build ensures the affordability won't lessen your workout intensity.

Best Mid-Price Range Option

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If you’re looking for an affordable rowing machine that’s big enough for tall athletes, this one is worth looking into. It has an extra long, 48 inch slide rail, so it’s a good fit for people of almost any height. This is a big deal when you consider that it’s also available at an affordable price.

This indoor rowing machine has 8 adjustable resistance levels, so you can get any type of workout in, from easy to challenging. It is made with comfortable handlebars and non-slip foot pedals. It even has wheels, so you can easily move it around when the time comes to store it. It also has an LCD screen, so you can easily watch your workout stats as you exercise.

Pros:

Extra long slide rail fits almost anyone
Affordable price point
Large and easy to read LCD screen

Cons:

This machine does not fold up for storage

Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW1205 Adjustable Resistance Indoor Rowing Machine

An Indoor Rowing Machine on a Budget

This machine will allow you to get your workout in, and it won't break the bank.

Best on a Budget

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If you’re just dipping your toes into the world of indoor rowing, or if you’re simply looking for a machine on a budget, this may be the right product for you. This indoor rowing machine still provides a great workout, even though it’s available at a fraction of the cost of its competitors.

This machine has 12 adjustable settings, and it provides a quiet and comfortable workout session every time. It has ergonomic and adjustable features, and even has a built-in digital monitor so you can track your workout statistics as you go.

Pros:

Extremely low price
Quiet and smooth machine
Compact design is easy to store and great for small spaces

Cons:

Fewer features than models reviewed above

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What Benefits do Indoor Rowing Machine Workouts Provide?

A: Indoor rowing machines are actually great for providing a wide variety of benefits. They allow you to get a full-body workout, as they require movement and strength from the arms, legs, and core. They also provide a great aerobic exercise, so you can strengthen your muscles, heart, and lungs at the same time.

Q: What Should I Consider When Buying an Indoor Rowing Machine?

A: If you choose an indoor rowing machine from the list above, you’re sure to get a high quality workout device. However, there are still a few things you should keep in mind when deciding which one to buy. First, consider the type of workout you’re looking for. Some higher quality machines will provide a more intense workout. Also, consider what type of technological features you want. Decide if you want to see your stats on your smartphone, or if viewing your workout on the machine’s monitor is enough. Consider ergonomic features if you’re worried about the machine being uncomfortable during longer workouts. Lastly, you will want to decide which price range you’d like to stay in, as indoor rowing machine prices vary greatly among brands.

Once you think over all of the different features that rowing machines can have, you’ll be ready to make your newest purchase. Choose the indoor rowing machine that is right for you, and look forward to getting great workouts in from the comfort of your own home.