Introduction
Most people want to get fitter or lose weight but they do not have the money to join a local gym. You can work out from home and still enjoy the same benefits you will get when you join a gym. One way to do that is by buying a rowing machine.
These days, you don’t have to break the bank to get gym equipment such as a rowing machine. With a little budget, you can purchase the best inexpensive rowing machine. The good thing about getting a rowing machine is that it helps you get an effective and rewarding cardio workout.
Also, rowing is an effective cardiovascular workout and can help you strengthen your body muscle groups. This is a low impact exercise that you can use to tone your body and burn calories, and if you combine it with a healthy diet, you will lose weight.
While using a rowing machine, getting a good posture and having a good form is paramount to getting a good workout while avoiding injury. Make sure you sit on the seat then secure your legs and feet on the pads. You can begin with a low resistance workout just make sure you are comfortable then you can increase the resistance level.
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with Performance Monitor
Starting off this list of best inexpensive rowing machine is Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine. Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is one of the best selling rowing machines for the last 4 decades. If you are looking for a machine which is great for low impact workout and engages all your muscle groups like arms, legs, and core then look no further than Concept2 Model D.
This rowing machine has all the features you need like the air resistance generated by the flywheel that allows you to respond to every stroke. It features aluminum front legs and steel rear legs, emphasizing its robust construction and commercial-grade quality. It also features a 14-inch seat height as well as a nickel-plated chain which allows for toning and cardio workout. The good thing about Concept2 Model Indoor Rowing Machine is that it is easy to assemble with just 8 screws.
Pros:
- Caster wheels for transportation
- It has an ergonomic handle for good grip
- Spiral Damper and flywheel for adjustable resistance
- Quick-release frame lock
- Adjustable monitor arm
- Great value for money
Cons:
- The fan is a little bit noisy
- It has a seat padding that wears out with time
- The rubber handle can be rough
2. Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine
This is another product from Concept2 to feature on this list of best inexpensive rowing machine. Concept2 Model E offers an effective low impact and full-body workout. This rowing machine allows you to burn between 300 and 500 calories per hour depending on their weight, health, and gender. It features a 20-inch seat height with tall legs that position users for an optimal body workout. Concept2 Model E is a comfortable rower that comes with an ergonomic handle. Also, it has a flywheel that minimizes noise and maximizes a smooth feel.
This rowing machine has an air resistance that mimics rowing on water. Another feature which users will like is the performance monitor 5 which gives you accurate and comparable data. Concept2 Model E may be big but it can be easily folded up within a few seconds. What we like about Concept2 Model E is that it is equipped with caster wheels for easy transportation. It also includes illustrated assembly instructions to assist customers in setting up their equipment.
Pros:
- It has a 30 days money-back guarantee
- The frame has a 5-year warranty while the parts come with 2-year warranty
- It has a commercial-grade build quality
- Comes with caster wheels for easy transportation
- Advanced PM5 monitor
- It is easy to assemble
Cons:
- Features air rowers which produce more noise compared to other resistance types
- The seat can be uncomfortable for some users
3. WaterRower Club Rowing Machine
As the name suggests, Water Rower Club Rowing Machine is an indoor rower with resistance generated using water. For its price, Water Rower Club Rowing Machine is the most reliable indoor rower available on the market. This handcrafted rowing machine features durable and solid construction and is unique in the absorption of vibration and sound. With a weight capacity of 1000 pounds, Water Rower Club Rowing Machine is designed to offer hours of an indoor rowing workout.
It is also ideal for effective indoor training, catering to both elite athletes and casual users. Thanks to the S4 Performance Monitor, it is possible for users to track their distance (miles, meters, and kilometers), calories burnt, time, the number of strokes taken. What makes this rowing machine stand out from the rest is that it is constructed from wood rather than metal. The Water Rower Club Rowing Machine features an S4 heart rate monitor which allows users to track their heart rate.
Pros:
- It comes with a good warranty
- It is easy to store after use
- Comes with a good warranty
- Features ergonomic footrest and handlebars
- Has comfortable and ergonomic seat
- 38-inch maximum user inseam
Cons:
- The LCD monitor does not have a backlight
- It doesn’t feature ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity
4. Water Rower Oxbridge Rowing Machine
The Water Rower Oxbridge Rowing Machine helps you take your rowing experience to another new level. The first rowing machine was introduced in 1981, marking a key innovation in winter training for rowers. Handcrafted from cherry hardwood, this rowing machine is made to be hard for commercial use. Water Rower Oxbridge consists of water flywheel as well as two paddles that provide quiet, smooth, self-regulated resistance. It features 6 preset workouts and users can set up more workouts based on interval training, duration goals, and distance goals.
Thanks to the duration and distance workout, Water Rower Oxbridge Rowing Machine allows you to preset then countdown your workout. Water Rower Oxbridge Rowing Machine has a maximum user weight of 1000 pounds. Also, this rowing machine has an ergonomic seat and footrest that is designed for stability and comfort. The good thing about this rowing machine is that it is comfortable, easy to use, and durable.
Pros:
- It is made from a good looking cherry wood construction
- Produces a smooth and realistic motion
- It is easy to assemble
- Comes with a comfortable seat and handle
- Has dual caster wheels for easy transportation
Cons:
- Its high price range disqualifies many people from buying it
- The performance monitor lacks advanced features
5. WaterRower A1 Home Rowing Machine
Fifth on this list is another product from WaterRower known as the A1 Home Rowing Machine. The Concept2 RowErg is another high-quality, durable indoor rowing machine that’s ideal for both home gyms and commercial gyms. Just like other rowing machines, the Water Rower A1 Home Rowing Machine makes the rider feel like they are rowing on water. One thing you will notice about the A1 Home Rowing Machine is that it has a sturdy frame; the seat is comfortable and has a uniquely designed monorail which allows for smooth stroke movement.
Rather than using air to offer resistance, this rowing machine has a sealed water tank that offers resistance while working out. This rowing machine has an A1 multi-functional performance monitor that allows you to track fitness data which include time, distance, strokes per minute, stroke rate (500m split), and intensity (watts). Another feature is that it is lightweight, easy to assemble, and can be folded easily when it is not in use. The WaterRower A1 Home Rowing Machine may have a large footprint but can be stored upright in a few seconds.
Pros:
- It is easy to assemble
- Fitted with dual caster wheels for easy transportation
- Comfortable handle and seat
- The smooth and realistic rowing motion
- Variable resistance adjustment which allows for easy rowing intensity
- Beautiful ash wood finish
Cons:
- It is to assemble
- The performance monitor lacks advanced features
6. Merax Water Rowing Machine
Merax is a well-known company that manufactures high-quality rowers. This is an entry-level rowing machine with great construction and is made for a full-body cardio workout. It is also popular in commercial gyms for its durability and performance. Merax Water rower is made from solid steel construction that offers steady durability and performance that can support weights of up to 330 pounds.
It features a large LCD monitor that helps track your current progress, including your workout time, calories, heart rate, and distance. Also, this rowing machine has an ergonomic seat and handle that offers a comfortable rowing experience. Merax Water Rowing Machine offers smooth water rowing movements and has relaxing sound inside the aqua blue water tank.
Pros:
- Has a large LCD monitor
- Comes with a weight capacity of up to 330 pounds
- It is very easy to assemble
- Space-saving design
- Includes transportation wheels
- Has a sturdy frame and has a weight capacity of 330 pounds
Cons:
- It comes with an unspecified warranty which can be confusing
- The console doesn’t have a backlight
7. Incline Fit Wood Water Rowing Machine
This is another fine crafted water rowing machine to feature on this list of best inexpensive rowing machine. Incline Fit Wood Water Rowing Machine utilizes a water flywheel that mimics the feeling of rowing on real water. The good thing about using this water rowing machine is that it offers a full-body workout. This means that with every stroke you are engaging your entire body thus working for your major muscle groups.
The ergonomic design, which includes a firm seat cushion, footpads, straps, and an option with taller legs that raises the seat height from 14 inches to 20 inches, gives riders a comfortable feeling while working out.
Pros:
- Has a monitor that shows distance rowed, strokes per minute, time spent rowing, and calories burnt
- Ergonomic handle and seat
- Ideal for beginners and expert rowers
- Easy to assemble and setup
Cons:
- No warranty included
8. Water Rower Vintage Oak Rowing Machine
Water Rower Vintage Oak Rowing Machine which is handcrafted from Oak Hardwood has a solid frame construction and can hold users of up to 1000 pounds. The Water Rower Vintage Oak Rowing Machine comes with a flywheel that is inside an enclosed water tank that provides quiet, smooth, and self-regulated resistance.
Thanks to the Series 4 performance monitor, riders can track their workout intensity, heart rate, and stroke rate. It is easy to store this rowing machine as it can stand upright while the water tank acts as ballast for stability.
The package includes illustrated assembly instructions to assist customers in setting up their equipment.
Pros:
- Comes equipped with transport wheels which are fitted on the front base
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy frame with a weight capacity of 1000 pounds
- Great warranty
- S4 rowing monitor that comes with 9 preset programs
Cons:
- The S4 monitor does not have a backlit
- It has a wireless HR chest strap
9. Fitness Reality Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine
Are you searching for a great budget rowing machine? Then look no further than Fitness Reality Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine. This rowing machine comes with 15 workout programs which include 10 preset workout programs as well as 5 customizable programs. The chain-driven dual transmission mechanism offers strength for an intense workout.
Fitness Reality Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine comes equipped with a backlit LCD console that displays calories burned, time, count, distance, watts, RPM and calories burned. Also, the dual independent rowing handles offer a full shoulder, arm, and chest exercises. Fitness Reality 4000MR comes with a large contoured cushion seat.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- Offers smooth and quiet rowing motion
- Durable build quality
- Easy to fold and stow away
- Comes with transportation wheels
Cons:
- Limited Bluetooth function
10. Kettler Home Exercise/ Fitness Equipment
Finally on this list of best inexpensive rowing machines is Kettler Home Exercise Equipment. This rowing machine comes with a total of 12 programs, including heart rate control which adjusts resistance. It also has an LCD monitor that helps you read workout data which includes distance, time, consumed, pulse rate, and strokes.
The seat has thick padding that offers maximum comfort and the resistance can be adjusted from 25 watts to 500 watts. Kettler Home Exercise/ Fitness Equipment has a brake system that offers an extensive range of variable as well as frictionless electromagnetic resistance for a challenging and smooth workout.
Pros:
- Comfortable seat and handle
- It has a great warranty
- Easy to assemble
- Comes with heart rate monitoring
Cons:
- It takes longer to assemble the parts
Buyer’s Guide for a Full Body Workout
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Portability
If you will be moving the rowing machine from one floor of one room to another, then you should choose one that is portable. A portable rowing machine is one that is foldable and has wheels.
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Comfort
This is another factor to consider because comfort helps with focus while working out. Check out rowing machines that have nice, padded seats as well as foam handles that help safeguard your hands. When you are comfortable, you can focus on your workout routine and be happy.
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Ease of Use
You must consider the ease of use and storage side of a rowing machine before purchasing one. What you want is a machine that is simple to use and not complicated. Also, you want it to be easy to set up and stow away.
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Ease of Assembly
Buying a rowing machine is one thing but being able to assemble it is a different thing. The ease of assembly will help you determine if a rowing machine is a good fit or not. The last thing you want is to buy a machine which is difficult to use. So you must do the due diligence so that you get a good rowing machine which is easy to assemble.
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Durability and Quality
You are not buying a home rower so that it sits at home. You will be using it to get the most benefit out of it. This is why you must choose the best quality home rower that is durable. The durability of a home rowing machine determines its speed, longevity and how to use it.
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Warranty
The length and type of warranty usually vary from one brand to another. What you want is a rowing machine with a warranty that covers the frame and parts.
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Noise Level
If you are planning to watch TV as you work out then you want to consider the noise level of the rowing machine. A silent machine may be ideal for you if you want to watch TV indoors but it is not always suitable for everyone. Some fitness enthusiasts prefer noise while working out because it kind of motivates them to work harder.
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Customer Support
Before you purchase a product from any company, make sure you determine if they have a responsive customer service. When you purchase a product and you need to ask any questions about it, good customer service will give you peace of mind.
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Stability
While using a rowing machine, you are likely to get movement in tall legs while using it. If you want to reduce the chance of hopping, then you can start by choosing a rowing machine that attaches itself to the floor while doing high power training. In case you did not know, home rowing machines vary depending on stability. What you want is to choose the most stable home rower that allows you to get good exercise from home.
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Type of Resistance
Rowing machines have the same design but they differ depending on the type of resistance they provide. The type of resistance includes air resistance, water resistance, magnetic resistance, and hydraulic resistance. Note that the type of resistance comes with their benefits, so it is important you consider this. In addition to the type of resistance, you need to consider whether the rowing machine allows you to select the amount of resistance you need.
You can start slowly then increase your resistance as you become fitter and stronger. Also, you want to choose a rowing machine based on whether it offers a smooth resistance or not. A rower that offers a smooth workout is good because it offers a reliable workout.
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Price
The prices of rowing machines usually vary depending on the model and whether they are high end or entry-level machines. So you must take into consideration the price of the rowing machine and the features you are looking for. High-end models are made to last a long time and come with a warranty. On the other hand, entry-level rowing machines require replacement soon enough.
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Maximum User Weight
Another important thing to consider is the maximum user weight. Rowing machines can handle a higher amount of weights compared to other gym machines.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
Question: If I am a beginner how long should I use a rowing machine?
Answer: For beginners who are starting to use a rowing machine, you should start with 30 minutes per day then increase the minutes slowly. From there, you will start to see results on your body which include back, arms, chest, and legs.
Question: Should you buy a rowing machine?
Answer: Just like any other gym equipment, a rowing machine can be quite a huge investment for most people. So it makes sense to ask yourself whether you should buy a rowing machine or not. If you are looking to stay fit at home and you understand the benefits of a rowing machine, then it makes sense to buy a rowing machine.
Question: Which body muscles does rowing machine work?
Answer: Rowing muscles deliver a full-body workout and it works 80 percent of the body muscles. In addition to that, a good rowing workout can exercise your entire cardiovascular system.
Question: Can you use a rowing machine to lose weight?
Answer: Diet is an important factor when it comes to managing calories but exercising on a rowing machine can help increase the weight loss deficit.
Question: Can I use a rowing machine to reduce my belly fat?
Answer: To be honest there is no one specific exercise that can help you lose belly fat. The only way you can lose belly fat is by losing fat on your body as a whole. The good thing about using a rowing machine is that it can help you lose body fat which is good for losing belly fat as a whole.
Final words
Rowing machines are a great workout tool that you can get at an affordable price. Fitness experts suggest that rowing machines are the best for cardio and body workout. Working out on a rowing machine will help you target a majority of muscle groups. Compared to other workout machines, a rower works your entire body.
You can use a rower to hit your quads, glutes, core, shoulders, back, and arm. There are many rowing machines available in the market which can make it confusing to choose the best inexpensive rowing machine.
When looking for the best inexpensive rowing machine, it can be a little bit confusing to choose one. Hopefully, the above tips and guides can help you choose the right rowing machine to buy.
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