Rowing Machine Reviews

How good is the fitness rowing machine for you?

Unlike the majority of cardio machines available, rowing machines workout both the upper and lower body. Although the execution of the exercise drastically differs from the elliptical trainers, rowing machines are similar in the sense that they offer a great full body workout while putting little strain on the weight bearing joints.  Rowing machines are designed to mimic the experience of rowing in a scull in the open water.  As you push with your legs and "row" on the exercise equipment, the seat slides backwards allowing you to workout the lower body.  Once you have reached the peak of the exercise movement, you will pull your body forward to begin the movement again.  This back and forth rhythmic movement creates a great cardio workout for the entire body.

Another great advantage for rowing machines is that as you become more experienced with the movement you can row at a faster pace for a more intense workout.  You set your own pace for the workout and how intense you make it is completely up to you.

When comparing the different fitness rowing machines, most of the choices that you will come across will be either the hydraulic or air rowing machines.  Hydraulic rowing machines are usually cheaper and do not provide as smooth of a workout as the air resistance rowers.  Air rowing machines on the other hand are a little more expensive and use wind as resistance.  Basically the harder you row the more resistance you build up during the exercise.

We recommend investing a little more money in an air rower if you have the extra funds.  The hydraulic rowers are not a bad exercise machine, we just feel that the air rowing machines are a better investment for the long-term.  The air rowers provide a smoother workout are closer to mimic the experience of rowing a scull on the lake.