Of all types of rowing machines, water rowing machines deliver a true rowing experience. They give a practical, highly-realistic on-water rowing sensation. Their stroke cycles are consistent with the dynamics of actual paddling, and a satisfying splash accompanies each stroke. With the almost-real sights and sounds of water, many users say this experience is reminiscent of zen-rowing. Unlike more common and cheap hydraulic rowing machines with stationary seats, water rowing machines have sliding seats for a full-body workout. Moreover, water rowing machines also feature premium-quality components that are also very durable. Check out our compilation of the top 10 best water rowing machines, with their features, pros, and cons.
Why Should I Buy The Best Water Rowing Machines
Great for shedding excess weight, toning muscles, and increasing cardiovascular endurance, water rowing machines are game-changers in the fitness world.
For people of all ages, aerobic exercises significantly contribute to your general health. A water rowing machine is a very effective way to raise your heart rate and increase metabolism. This way, you shall be able to shed weight, build stamina, and strengthen your immunity. Similarly, endorphins are released whenever you work out, thus improving your mood and getting rid of anxiety and depression.
A water rowing machine burns 600 calories in every hour of exercise. That rate is considerably higher than most other fitness equipment like treadmills, exercise bikes or ellipticals. This means that a water rowing machine is very good for weight loss. When used together with diet change and consistent use, a rowing machine is the best bet for weight loss.
Inasmuch as using water rowing machines may appear exhausting at first, the benefits, in the long run, are massive. You shall have better endurance and build more energy. Given that rowing exercises target the heart, circulatory system, and major muscle groups, it is much more effective than other fitness tools.
Buyers’ Guide—What to Consider When Buying the Best Water Rowing Machines
1. Resistance
Unlike other fitness equipment, water rowers have their resistance levels adjust themselves naturally. The more vigorous the rowing, the higher the resistance. A common characteristic of all water rowing machines is the so-called ‘water flywheel,’ which mimics paddling in the water. Some have dials for you to make adjustments.
2. Space
Unless you have a very large personal home gym, you must be wary of the amount of space a rower will occupy. Water rowing machines are typically longer than most exercise machines. Therefore, consider this factor.
3. What you aim to achieve
Are your fitness goals consistent with what a rower offers? You must set out your aims before buying a machine. Certain rowers are better suited to satisfy some fitness goals than others. For instance, rowers with preset workout programs are more dynamic and effective for weight loss and muscle building.
4. Monitor and controls
Choosing between a high-performance monitor or a basic one is a matter of personal preference. We advise you to choose water rowing machines to show metrics such as heart rate, calories burnt, time, distance, and counts per minute.
The Top 10 Best Water Rowing Machines This Year
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Merax Water Rowing Machine
Merax 2023 Water Rowing Machine Fitness Indoor Water Resistance 330 lbs Weight Capacity Row Machine Exercise Rower Home Gym Equipment with Digital Monitor for Home Use
- 【Stronger Resistance Adjustment】Sleek and elegant in design with the dashing blue, Merax water rower is highly refined with solid steel construction for steady performance and durability, which supports up to 330 LBS. Unique inclined water tank ensures more powerful resistance compared to others in flat position. Get a more effective aerobic workout and your cardio health on the upswing.
- 【Quiet & Smooth Rowing】Merax water rowing machine provides a soothing glide which mimics the dynamic rowing movements across the real water. You can enjoy the relaxing sound of water splashing inside the aqua blue water tank or stream your favorite show without turning the volume too high.
- 【Multi-Feature Monitor】The large LCD monitor accurately displays your rowing intensity in duration, strokes, calories, distance, and heart rate. Quick start and stop options allow you to start rowing workouts in a single button push. The exciting part is you can challenge yourself under the competitive race mode and get on an intense rowing competition.
- 【Customized Rowing Experience】Fill the water tank to desired water level resistances to adjust resistances with funnel and pumping siphon(included). 19” long ergonomic handle to maximize your rowing performance. 12.5” x 10” contoured seat molded for comfort during your long-time rowing workouts. 12” long footrest with fully adjustable Velcro strap, securely pivot with your feet during intense rowing.
Sleek and elegant design in dashing blue, the Merax Water Rower has equally strong steel construction for excellent performance and durability, which supports weights of 330lbs.
It also has an inclined water tank that provides a more powerful resistance compared to others in a horizontal position. The Merax water rowing machine gives a soothing glide reminiscent of real dynamic rowing movements in the water. You shall enjoy the satisfying sound of water splashing within the aqua blue water tank.
A multi-featured LCD monitor displays accurate results on rowing intensity, duration, strokes, calories, distance, and heart rate. Also, multiple quick start buttons initiate rowing workouts by a single button push. One other interesting thing is that the competitive race mode can help you challenge yourself into an intense rowing competition.
Pros- Durable construction
- Comfortable seat
- You can customize the rowing experience to your liking.
- The seat is made for comfort during your long and vigorous workouts.
- Its compact design is convenient for storage.
- Long and comfortable footsteps with adjustable Velcro straps allow you to plant your feet firmly.
- The LCD monitor is easy to read
- Smooth operation
Cons- A little bit noisy
- Quite heavy
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Concept 2 Rowing Machine
Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine - PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage
- Integrated Device Holder allows you to keep your Smart Phone or Tablet securely in place. Compatible with over 40+ apps.
- Space Recommendations: Assembled: 8 ft x 2 ft (244 cm x 61 cm) With Clearance for Use: 9 ft x 4 ft (274 cm x 122 cm) For Storage: 25 in x 33 in x 54 in (63.5 cm x 83.8 cm x 137.2 cm)
- Included: Concept2 RowErg, Performance Monitor 5 Computer (PM5), Device Holder, User Manual, Pm5 Quick Start Guide, all tools for assembly and simple to follow instructions.
- Low impact workout that engages all major muscle groups; work legs, core and arms with a smooth, high calorie-burning motion.
For over four decades, the dependable performance of the Concept2 Model D indoor rower has made it the best water rowing machine in the world.
Often used by elite athletes and amateurs as well, the Versatile Concept2 Model D offers competitive training and fits well in homes and gyms. It is an excellent choice if you are on a tight budget or tight on space.
The LCD progress monitor keeps track of your progress with reliable and comparable data on every stroke. It shows the time, number of strokes, and intervals. The LCD is backlit to be easy on your eyes.
Control the intensity of your workout with the ten damper levels. An air-resistance flywheel further aids this by responding to every stroke. The combination of these two features gives a smooth row.
You will not have to stress over moving this water rowing machine. It rolls smoothly and quietly on caster wheels while fully assembled. Storage is also easy because of the two-fold design that saves a lot of space.
Other features include a USB port, wireless Bluetooth, and third-party app compatibility.
Pros- Releases and folds quickly for storage due to the frame-lock mechanism
- Easy to transport
- Delivers a smooth ride
- Connects with a wide range of fitness apps
- Challenges you into engaging in online rowing competitions
- Comes at a fair price for a product of its quality
- Has a 5-year warranty
- Easy to assemble
Cons- Makes some noise
- No other negative review has ever been received.
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MaxKare Water Rowing Machine
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If you are looking for a real-life rowing experience, the MaxKare water rowing machine will make your workout experience fun-filled and good for your health. It can support weights of up to 264lbs.
An adjustable LCD is one of the key components of the MaxKare rower. It is easily adjustable for excellent visibility and keeps track of; strokes per minute, distance, and calories burnt. A man-against-machine competition mode makes workouts more dynamic and challenging.
The large cushioned seats offer users a comfortable rowing experience, while the adjustable footplates are equipped with foot straps to secure the feet in place. The length of the footplates is adjustable by five pairs of hole sites.
With your training targets in mind, fill the water in the container to produce a corresponding resistance. Making the machine stable is easy by simply adjusting the stabilizers. A water bottle is within reach of your fingertips for proper hydration.
Pros- Easy to use
- An effective fitness tool
- Ideal for leg-dominant leg exercises
- Long-lasting construction
- Comfortable padded handles eliminate hand exhaustion
- The LCD screen gives real-time data on fitness progress
- Can be stored in an upright orientation
- Relieves pressure on the spine, knees, and back
Cons- Supports a rather small weight limit
- It is unsafe for use when the water is filled to the maximum level
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Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5713
Sale
Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge 500 Water Rowing Machine - SF-RW5713 , Black
- WATER PERFORMANCE: Instant resistance is available with the flywheel and 16 fan blades. The faster the fan blades spin the higher resistance and dynamic response caused by the harmonious interaction with the water, giving the user a unique experience.
- DESIGN: Constructed with lightweight sturdy steel, for solid performance and durability. The 16 hydro-blades mimic the dynamic movements of competitive rowing along with sweat resistant handlebars.
- ERGO EFFICIENT: Molded padded seat is designed to be comfortable and functional. High-profile seat design allows user to get on and off the seat without bending and straining your back.
- FITNESS TECHNOLOGY: The R2 fitness meter is designed to accurately track all essential workout metrics, i.e. total time, 500 M time, SPM, total strokes, calories, hr., ambient temperature, and more
The SF-RW5713 will keep your workouts dynamic and challenging. It will help exercise the majority of your body’s muscular systems without straining the joints while boosting cardiovascular endurance. This way, you shall burn a lot of calories within a very short time.
Featuring 16 fan blades that provide unlimited resistance, the user shall experience a dynamic response that is harmonious with its interaction with water in every stroke. The user will have a unique, almost surreal experience.
Its molded padded seat is designed with functionality and comfort in mind, while the high-density rubber wheels are perfect for transport and upright storage. Moreover, SF-RW5713 has a fitness meter that tracks all essential workout metrics accurately.
Pros- Easy to store by placing it upright against the wall vertically
- Offers unlimited resistance for excellent workouts
- The seat is large enough for proper comfort
- Gives a refreshing rowing experience to the user
Cons- Makes some noise, though it’s bearable
- Problems with the foot pedals have been reported.
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GYMAX Water Rowing Machine
GYMAX Water Rowing Machine, Water Rower with Adjustable Resistance & LCD Display, Easy-Transportation Rower for Whole Body Exercise Cardio Training
- LCD Display: This water rowing machine is equipped with LCD screen, which helps you monitor your exercise process by showing you with real-time figures about exercise time, distance, paddle frequency, pulse, speed and calorie.
- Adjustable Resistance: GYMAX water rower with adjustable resistance is perfect for cardio training for all, as you could adjust workout intensity freely to catch up with your own physical statement.
- Ergonomic Design: Ergonomic design of the machine, such as U-shape seat and large foot pedals, helps you focus on training and protect you from injury during workout.
- Space-saving & Portable: The water rowing machine can be put vertically at any corner in your home, giving you easy storage. In addition, easy-transportation wheels help you move the machine easily and effortlessly.
Maximize comfort and performance while rowing the GYMAX Water Rowing Machine. Enjoy the meditative sound of splashing water that mimics rowing across the water with ease.
The large water tank provides a very powerful resistance that will help you meet your fitness goals. You have the freedom to choose a resistance level that matches your body’s preparedness. The machine also has an ergonomic design, notably on the large seat and pedals. This design is intended to protect you from injury during workouts.
Easy transportation wheels allow you to move the machine around quite effortlessly. The water rowing machine can be placed vertically for easy storage.
The GYMAX is one of the best water rowing machines, offering an effective way to exercise body muscles; exercises that will give good results within a short time.
Pros- The LCD screen provides real-time metrics on calories burnt, duration, distance, and paddle frequency
- Multiple resistance levels allow you to modify the workout intensity
- Built with enough safety features to protect you from injury
- Occupies little space
- Mimics real-life rowing on water
Cons- Has no heart rate monitor
- Taller persons may struggle with the rowing length, though it fits most persons.
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XTERRA Fitness ERG650W
XTERRA Fitness ERG650W Water Rowing Machine
- Rowing is one of the most effective full-body workouts around - engage more muscle groups in less time and accelerate your fitness results
- Over 15 pre-programmed workouts and 6 levels of resistance to keep you at the peak of your training
- 45-degree angled water tank and 16-blade impeller provide a realistic and relaxing rowing experience in the comfort of your home
- Padded handles and flex footplates keep you comfortable so you can train harder for longer
The makers of the XTERRA ERG650W aimed to give you an effective full-body workout that is fun-filled and accessible to everyone. Its core is a water tank, multi-bladed impeller, 15 workout programs, and a heavy-duty design.
This water rowing machine is one step closer to realistic water rowing with an advanced multi-bladed impeller water tank that is anchored at a 45-degree angle. While providing you an authentic rowing experience, the padded handles and flex footplates keep you as comfortable as possible.
No matter your fitness goals, the XTERRA ERG650W features 15 workout programs to track your progress and keep you fully engaged. Small adjustments to the tank’s height are much more significant than you may think. The angle generates greater resistance, while the 15″ elevation off the ground makes it easy to get on and off this water rowing machine.
Pros- Elevated 15” off the ground so as to make it easy to get on and off
- The water tank is angled in a way that increases the resistance
- Delivers an authentic rowing experience
- Quite comfortable
- Durable construction
- Easy to transportation
- Smooth and quiet operation
- Its features make it a serious contender for the best water rowing machine tag
Cons- The monitor is less capable than those on its peers in the market
- Lacks Bluetooth connectivity and is incompatible with third-party apps
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Goplus Water Rowing Machine
Goplus Water Rowing Machine, with Heart Rate Sensor, Indoor Rower with Adjustable Resistance Water Wheel and LCD Monitor, Full Body Exercise for Home Use
- Adjustable Water Resistance --- Based on the design of principle of impeller stoke, the resistance of the rowing machine can be adjusted by how much water is in the tank. With a simple operation, you can increase or decrease resistance, so your workout can remain challenging and effective throughout your fitness journey.
- Large LCD Monitor --- The large LCD monitor tracks your count per min, time, count, calories, distance and scan. The convenient scan mode displays your progress to assist you in tracking all your fitness goals. With the water-resist chest belt, you also can know your heart rate readout when exercising. In addition, the rowing machine can connect with cell-phone and download app to get data.
- Aluminium Alloy Slide Rail --- Constructed with heavy duty sturdy steel, the rower has solid performance and durability that supports up to 220lbs. It will stay durable with its aluminum alloy beam that won’t rust and provides a smooth and quiet rowing experience. This water rowing machine will serve you for a long time. It can be conveniently stored and easy move with the wheels after your workout exercises.
- More Comfortable & Secure Experience --- This row machine features a PU seat on rollers that glide smoothly. Large adjustable textured pedals with adjustable safety straps fit a wide range of foot sizes and make your feet remain in place throughout your rowing routine. With a non-slip rowing handle for better grip. With a hand pump for filling and removing water from the tank.
The Goplus Water Rowing Machine features a resistance feature that relies on the principle of the impeller stoke. The machine’s resistance is dictated by how much water is in the tank. This way, your workout shall remain challenging and effective.
A large LCD monitor displays the counts per minute, time, calories burnt, and distance covered. This is accompanied by a convenient scan mode that tracks your fitness goals in finer details. It also features a water-resistant chest belt that gives accurate readings of your heart rate.
The rower’s solid performance and durability come from the strong steel construction that won’t rust. Also, the rower has rollers that glide smoothly for easy transportation.
Pros- The textured pedals are large enough to fit most users
- Easy to transport
- Features a unique water-resistant chest strap that measures your heart rate accurately
- This water rowing machine will serve you for a long time
- Accompanied by a reliable warranty
- Gives a more comfortable and secure experience
Cons- Occupies a rather large space
- Assembly is complicated by an instruction manual that needs to be updated. However, you can figure your way through it.
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WaterRower Rowing Machine Ash
WaterRower Ash Rowing Machine with S4 Monitor | USA Made | Original Handcrafted Erg Machine for Home Use & Gym | Best Warranty
- THE ORIGINAL WATERROWER - HANDCRAFTED AND BUILT TO LAST - Designed in the mid '80s by Yale and US National Team Rower John Duke. WaterRower continues to combine stylish design, handcrafted workmanship, our unique WaterFlywheel resistance and ethically sourced materials create the world's finest rowing simulator
- MADE IN USA - Hand-built in Rhode Island; all timber used in the manufacture of wooden WaterRower rowing machines is sourced from sustainably managed hardwood forests in the Appalachian Mountains. The ASH Rower is Made of Ash Wood with a Natural Color Finish
- SMOOTH - Water rowers use a water-filled flywheel to provide resistance as you row. The resistance is created by the paddle-like blades of the flywheel moving through the water, creating a smooth and natural resistance that closely resembles the feeling of rowing on water. Like water, the harder you fight, the more resistance you get
- BURN CALORIES IN SHORT TIME - There are many benefits to rowing. It is a low impact cardiovascular exercise that puts less stress on your joints. Full body workout that includes your legs, core, back and arms. Perfect for all fitness levels. This water rowing machine targets all major muscle groups (84 percent of total muscle mass)
The WaterRower Rowing Machine is very unique. Among our top 10 picks of the best water rowing machines, it is the only one that is handcrafted from solid ash wood, finished with a honey oak stain and Danish oil.
The WaterRower’s ‘water flywheel’ design is unrivaled in its ability to mimic a boat’s dynamics moving through water. It especially simulates the benefits of rowing.
Plus, the WaterRower exercises up to 84% of your muscles, helping tone and strengthen muscles, while burning a significant number of calories within a short time.
An LCD monitor is well-designed to balance technical sophistication with functional simplicity. It includes six information and programming windows, six quick-selection buttons, and three navigation buttons. Through the LCD screen, you can monitor the stroke rate, heart rate, duration, and distance.
This water rowing machine has an unrivaled weight capacity of up to 1000 pounds.
Pros- Has an unparalleled weight capacity of 1000 pounds
- The most stylish water rowing machine
- Very durable
- Very stable thanks to the four corner wheels
- Has a 5-year warranty on the frame and parts
- Remarkably smooth and fluid
Cons- With such amazing features, it is unsurprising that this water rowing machine comes at a high price
- Though it is a lot quieter than other water rowers, it still makes some noise
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Stamina X Water Rower
Stamina X Water Rower - Rower Machine with Smart Workout App - Rower Workout Machine with Dynamic Water Resistance - Rowing Machine for Home Gym - Up to 300 lbs Weight Capacity
- STAMINA X ROWING MACHINE - Experience the feel and sounds of true rowing with our Water Rower. This rowing machine provides effective strength-building and cardiovascular exercise that’s great for the whole body.
- ALL-IN-ONE CARDIO EQUIPMENT - This versatile rowing machine offers different workout possibilities suitable for strength training, targeting specific muscle groups, and toning the overall body and muscular core.
- DYNAMIC WATER RESISTANCE - This row machine cardio has smooth motion resistance that provides a full-body workout. Add more water to the tank to change the base resistance level; and remove water for less.
- COMFORTABLE AND SPACE SAVING - This row machine is designed with a padded handle and molded seat to keep you comfortable, and textured footplates with straps to keep your feet secure. Use the built-in wheels to move the rower to storage.
The Stamina X Water Rowing Machine is highly-rated for its effective strength training and cardiovascular exercises.
The smooth motion of this type of resistance provides a great full-body workout. Simply ease off, and the resistance will ease you. The only thing that will limit you is your ability to row harder.
Track your fitness goals using the easy-to-read, high-definition LCD screen that displays calories burned, time, stroke count, and distance covered. A wireless transmitter to your chest allows you to view your pulse. Once done with your workout, move the rower for storage using the transport wheels. The compact design means this rower occupies little space.
Pros- Comes in 3 different colors for you to choose from
- The multi-functional monitor gives reliable measurements on your fitness progress
- Very stable
- With the device holder, your phone or tablet will be within your reach
- Closely mimics real-world rowing
- Saves a lot of space
Cons- The bolts may loosen after being used for a long time. Simply tighten them
- Problems with the bar holding the foot have been reported, though this is rare
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Life Fitness Row HX Trainer
Life Fitness Row HX Trainer
- The natural wood and tempered steel frame strike a balance between elegance and durability. The row hx fits any Decor and is a piece of exercise equipment that you can be proud to display
- Four resistance levels are available at the turn of a Dial, without the hassle of adding or siphoning water. Easy adjustments accommodate several users and allow users to Challenge themselves with a variety of intensity
- The unique fluid Technology resistance System delivers a smooth and natural feel, and provides consistent resistance throughout each rowing stroke
- Easy to move and has a small footprint to fit in any space. The rower is less than 7-feet (213 cm) tall when stored upright
Life Fitness Row HX Trainer strikes a special balance between elegance and durability with the natural wood and steel frame. It is a fitness equipment that you’ll be proud to show off.
You can adjust the four resistance levels by a simple dial, without the hassle of adding or siphoning water. This way, several users have the chance to challenge themselves with a wide range of workout intensities.
Featuring a unique fluid resistance technology, this rower delivers a smooth, natural feel. With each stroke comes with a corresponding resistance.
It is also easy to move has a compact design that occupies little space.
Pros- Saves space within your home or gym
- Attractive design
- Saves you from the hassle of adding or siphoning water to adjust the resistance
- Delivers premium performance
Cons- Rather expensive but worth every penny
- The display screen is rather small.
Parting Shot
There is no shortage of water rowing machines in the market today. There are a number of high-quality choices, but there are lots of bells and whistles as well. We hope you don’t succumb to some of the many substandard products. Hopefully, with our review on the ten best water rowing machines in 2020, you shall make a worthwhile purchase.
Last update on 2023-05-10 at 11:18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
