Hoping to learn how to choose a good rowing machine?
Rowing machines are a wonderful addition to your cardio setup. However, it’s important to know what to look for. Otherwise, you’re going to end up with a rowing machine that doesn’t work well.
So, what should you consider before buying a new machine?
Here’s more on how to choose a good rowing machine.
Best Rowing Machine: Merax Magnetic Exercise Rower
Key features:
- Fully Padded Seat
- 8 Levels of Resistance
- Adjustable Knob
- Huge LCD Display
- 15-Degree Angled Seat for Added Control
- Foldable Frame
The Merax Magnetic Exercise Rower is a well-established rower and offers a wonderful set of features. When it comes to the best rower right now, it’s as good as it gets.
This is easy to use, compact and offers a great list of resistance settings. This is what makes it an ideal fit for people of all levels. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, this is a nice addition to your home gym.
You will enjoy using this as soon as it’s put together.
Qualities of a Good Rowing Machine
1. Compact Design
It’s the design that matters when everything is said and done.
You have to go with something that will work well with your living space. For example, you may want the best rower for small spaces or the best rower for an apartment. It doesn’t matter what your needs are, there’s a good fit out there.
It’s always best to go with something that’s affordable, versatile, and compact.
This way you can feel confident in setting it up and having it remain in the same place for years to come.
However, we recommend going with a foldable design as that can make it easier to store away whenever necessary. A high-grade option is always going to come with a foldable frame making it simpler to move it around from point A to point B.
2. Easy to Use
How easy is the rowing machine to use?
A top rowing machine for beginners will be one that comes with simple settings. You shouldn’t have to toggle around a complex set of buttons to figure things out. This is when your workout gets ruined!
Instead, it’s better to go with something that’s simple to use and has a small selection of resistance settings.
In general, the best rowing machine will come with a toggle or knob to play around with. This is going to allow you to make switches on the fly. Anything more than this is simply complicating matters and isn’t worth your time. You are not going to find value from something like that!
3. Multiple Settings
While having several settings at the same time can be unnecessary, it’s still important to go with something that provides choice. You need variation with the rowing machine to put together a comprehensive workout routine.
Otherwise, you are going to end up plateauing without seeing necessary results.
Progress is a must and that is only possible with multiple resistance settings. In general, anything above 6 resistance settings is a good base to set. You can play around with these resistance settings and get them to work based on what your needs are.
The best rowing machines all offer this and you will want to get something that does the bare minimum.
4. Ergonomic
We recommend going with a solution that’s “ergonomic,” which means a rowing machine designed to work well when you’re in place.
Too many machines look the part but then don’t work as well when you’re ready to go. A rowing machine needs to work in unison with your body. It needs to be in harmony with the movement.
This means the adjustable knob should be close by, so you can reach it without getting injured.
Everything should have a certain flow to it.
If not, you’re going to hate sitting down on the rower and using it. Instead, you will look for other ways to get your cardio in.
Focus on the ergonomic nature of your design as soon as you can.
5. Durable Build Quality
How durable is the rower? Is it going to last in your home?
There is no reason to invest in a flimsy rower that is going to break down as soon as you put it to use!
This is how your investment can end up going down the drain. A rower is expensive and it is an investment you will want to make with reason. This is why it’s important to go with a stainless steel design that is well-regarded among users for its durability.
Anything other than this isn’t going to live up to expectations.
We also belive it’s best to focus on a company that has a strong warranty policy. This keeps you safe from potential issues that pop up.
6. Comfortable Seat
Since you’re going to be seated during the motion, it’s important to have a soft seating place to make the most of.
This is the only way to feel confident with what you’re doing.
If not, you are going to hate the results and all that comes along with it. Always choose a seat that’s straight to the point and as comfortable as you need it to be.
For a comfortable seat, it should be in line with the handle and it should provide appropriate cushioning for your back. If it doesn’t provide enough room for you to move around, it’s going to start hurting after a while.
Remember, you will be spending quite a bit of time sitting down and it should be easy on the body.
Think about this as you invest in a brand-new rower.
7. Good Grip
The final quality to keep in mind would be the actual grip of the handle.
Imagine going through a strict workout routine and having the handle slip out of your hands. The same applies to where your feet will go during the movement. Don’t go with something that doesn’t offer enough traction or space for your feet.
There has to be enough space for you to feel secure with the movement.
Grip is just as important as any other part of the movement. You have to think about what could happen if the handle slips.
You will sweat and it’s best to go with something that’s made to handle sweat and comes with a textured handle.
Tips for Using a Rowing Machine
1. Create a Personalized Program
While learning how to choose a rowing machine, it’s also important to know how to use it.
With a rower, you want to create a personalized program based on your needs. Some prefer going with a rower to lose weight, while others want to supplement their weightlifting routine.
It doesn’t matter what you’re doing, the goal is the same. You want to create a customized workout program.
This includes how many reps, resistance settings, time spent on the rower, and how often you use the machine throughout the week.
This is key information and should be the foundation of your workout setup.
2. Use Your Entire Body
When it’s time to use a rower, you want to understand the technique in detail. It’s important to have your grip in place and make sure everything is flowing properly.
This means as soon as you pull, it should include shifting power from your legs through to your upper body. It has to be done in one swift motion. Any type of hitch in your form is going to lead to injury and/or inferior results.
To make sure you have the technique down, it’s best to start with a lower resistance setting.
It’s similar to starting with a lighter weight while working out as a beginner.
3. Keep the Back Straight
Your back should remain straight throughout the movement. This is the only way to avoid tweaking your back or making mistakes during the exercise.
Rowing is all about driving through the legs and ensuring the back doesn’t give out.
When your form is good, the movement is going to add real value to your routine. Otherwise, you may end up getting hurt and it’s not going to add to your physique.
Final Thoughts
These are the most important tips on how to choose a rowing machine.
Take the time to look at the different qualities, compare rowing machines, and figure out which rower is best for you.
It may take a bit of time to nail down but you’re going to enjoy the rower when a smart decision is made.
