Discover which rowing machines offer the most efficient workout routines for burning calories and losing weight.

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Looking to shed some pounds and sculpt a lean, toned physique? Rowing machines are an excellent way to achieve your weight loss goals, offering a full-body workout that engages multiple muscle groups. They are low-impact, making them suitable for people of all fitness levels, and provide a cardiovascular challenge that burns calories and improves endurance. With so many rowing machines available on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

This article will guide you through the best rowing machines for weight loss, considering factors like resistance type, build quality, and affordability. We’ll explore a range of options, from sleek, space-saving models to professional-grade machines with advanced features. We’ll also delve into the benefits of rowing for weight loss, covering the calories burned, muscle engagement, and overall health improvements you can expect.

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, this comprehensive guide will help you find the perfect rowing machine to support your weight loss goals. We’ll provide insights into each model’s strengths, weaknesses, and unique features to help you make an informed decision.

Ready to discover the best rowing machine for your needs and embark on your weight loss journey? Let’s dive into the world of rowing machines and unlock the potential for a healthier, fitter you!

QUICKLIST
Item	Image	Where to buy	Rating	Read More
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine			4.9 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine			4.6 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5803 Magnetic Rowing Machine			N/A	Jump to Review
NordicTrack RW900 Rowing Machine			4.0 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
Echelon EX-3 Smart Rowing Machine			N/A	Jump to Review
ProForm Pro 2000 Rowing Machine			N/A	Jump to Review
Hydrow Rower			4.3 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine			N/A	Jump to Review
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW579 Rowing Machine			N/A	Jump to Review
Joroto Magnetic Rowing Machine			N/A	Jump to Review
Fitness Reality 1000 Super Max Rowing Machine			N/A	Jump to Review
Yosuda Magnetic Rowing Machine			N/A	Jump to Review
Stamina 1215 InMotion Rower			N/A	Jump to Review

Table of Contents

Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine

The Concept2 Model D is a classic indoor rowing machine that’s known for its durability and smooth rowing experience. It's a great option for both beginners and experienced rowers.

Specifications :

Resistance: Air resistance
Display: PM5 monitor with performance metrics
Weight capacity: 350 pounds
Dimensions: 84" L x 24" W x 19" H
Weight: 55 pounds

Reasons to buy :

Excellent build quality: The Model D is built to last, with a solid aluminum frame and high-quality components.
Smooth rowing experience: The air resistance system provides a realistic and smooth rowing experience.
Versatile: The Model D can be used for a variety of workouts, from low-intensity cardio to high-intensity interval training.
User-friendly: The PM5 monitor is easy to use and provides a wealth of performance data.

Reasons to avoid :

Pricey: The Model D is one of the most expensive rowing machines on the market.
Bulky: It's a large and heavy machine, so it may not be suitable for all homes.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're looking for a durable and high-quality rowing machine.
You're willing to spend a lot of money on a rowing machine.
You're an experienced rower or want to get serious about rowing.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You have limited space.
You're a beginner rower.

Bottom Line:

The Concept2 Model D is an excellent choice for serious rowers and anyone who's looking for the most realistic rowing experience. It's a durable, high-quality machine that's built to last, but it comes with a hefty price tag. If you're on a budget or have limited space, there are other more affordable and compact rowing machines available.

WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine

The WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine is a unique rowing machine that uses water resistance to provide a smooth and realistic rowing experience. It's a great choice for those who are looking for a natural and quiet workout.

Specifications :

Resistance: Water resistance
Display: Optional monitor
Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Dimensions: 83" L x 22" W x 17" H
Weight: 90 pounds

Reasons to buy :

Natural and quiet rowing experience: The water resistance provides a smooth and realistic rowing experience that's also very quiet.
Durable and stylish: The WaterRower is made from high-quality materials and has a sleek and elegant design.
Versatile: It can be used for a variety of workouts, from low-intensity cardio to high-intensity interval training.

Reasons to avoid :

Pricey: The WaterRower is one of the most expensive rowing machines on the market.
Bulky: It's a large and heavy machine, so it may not be suitable for all homes.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're looking for a natural and quiet rowing experience.
You're willing to spend a lot of money on a rowing machine.
You value style and design.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You have limited space.
You're looking for a machine with a digital display.

Bottom Line:

The WaterRower is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a natural and quiet rowing experience. It's a durable and stylish machine that's built to last, but it comes with a hefty price tag. If you're on a budget or have limited space, there are other more affordable and compact rowing machines available.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5803 Magnetic Rowing Machine

The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5803 Magnetic Rowing Machine is a budget-friendly option that offers a good workout for the price. It's a great choice for beginners who are looking for a basic rowing machine.

Specifications :

Resistance: Magnetic resistance
Display: LCD monitor with performance metrics
Weight capacity: 250 pounds
Dimensions: 57.5" L x 23" W x 21.5" H
Weight: 55 pounds

Reasons to buy :

Affordable: The SF-RW5803 is one of the most affordable rowing machines on the market.
Compact: It's relatively small and lightweight, making it easy to store.
Easy to assemble: It's easy to put together.
Comes with a digital display: The LCD monitor provides performance metrics like time, distance, calories burned, and strokes per minute.

Reasons to avoid :

Not as durable as more expensive models: It's made from less expensive materials, so it may not last as long as more expensive models.
Not as smooth as more expensive models: The magnetic resistance system is not as smooth as the air or water resistance systems found in more expensive models.
Limited features: The LCD monitor is basic and doesn't offer as many features as more expensive models.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're on a tight budget.
You're looking for a basic rowing machine that's easy to assemble.
You have limited space.
You're a beginner rower.

Don't buy it if:

You're looking for a durable and high-quality rowing machine.
You're looking for a smooth rowing experience.
You need advanced features and tracking.

Bottom Line:

The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5803 is a good budget-friendly option for beginners who are looking for a basic rowing machine. It's affordable, compact, and easy to assemble. However, it's not as durable or smooth as more expensive models, and it doesn't offer as many features. If you're looking for a more durable and high-quality rowing machine, there are other better options available.

NordicTrack RW900 Rowing Machine

The NordicTrack RW900 Rowing Machine is a high-tech rowing machine that comes with a built-in touchscreen and access to iFit workouts. It's a great choice for those who are looking for a motivating and interactive workout.

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Specifications :

Resistance: Magnetic resistance
Display: 14" touchscreen with iFit integration
Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Dimensions: 57" L x 23" W x 24" H
Weight: 115 pounds

Reasons to buy :

Interactive workouts: The iFit integration provides access to a wide variety of on-demand and live rowing workouts.
High-quality construction: The RW900 is built with a solid steel frame and has a smooth and quiet magnetic resistance system.
Large touchscreen: The 14" touchscreen is easy to use and provides access to a variety of features.
Automatic adjustments: The RW900 can automatically adjust the resistance levels based on your iFit workout.

Reasons to avoid :

Pricey: The RW900 is one of the most expensive rowing machines on the market.
Requires a subscription: The iFit membership is required to access the full functionality of the RW900.
Bulky: The RW900 is a large and heavy machine.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're looking for a high-tech and interactive rowing machine.
You want access to a wide variety of on-demand and live rowing workouts.
You're willing to pay a premium for a high-quality rowing machine.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You're not interested in iFit workouts.
You have limited space.

Bottom Line:

The NordicTrack RW900 is an excellent choice for anyone who's looking for a motivating and interactive rowing experience. It's a high-tech and high-quality rowing machine that's packed with features. However, it comes with a hefty price tag and requires an iFit membership to access its full functionality. If you're on a budget or not interested in iFit workouts, there are other more affordable and more basic rowing machines available.

Echelon EX-3 Smart Rowing Machine

The Echelon EX-3 Smart Rowing Machine is a budget-friendly smart rowing machine that comes with a built-in touchscreen and access to Echelon Fit workouts. It's a great choice for those who are looking for an affordable way to get an interactive rowing workout.

Specifications :

Resistance: Magnetic resistance
Display: 22" touchscreen with Echelon Fit integration
Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Dimensions: 56.5" L x 22.5" W x 25.5" H
Weight: 100 pounds

Reasons to buy :

Affordable: The EX-3 is one of the most affordable smart rowing machines on the market.
Interactive workouts: The Echelon Fit integration provides access to a variety of on-demand and live rowing workouts.
Large touchscreen: The 22" touchscreen is easy to use and provides access to a variety of features.
Quiet: The magnetic resistance system is very quiet.

Reasons to avoid :

Limited resistance levels: The EX-3 only has 32 resistance levels, which is less than some other smart rowing machines.
No automatic adjustments: The resistance levels have to be adjusted manually.
No built-in fan: The EX-3 doesn't have a built-in fan, which can be a problem if you tend to sweat a lot.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're looking for an affordable smart rowing machine.
You want access to a variety of on-demand and live rowing workouts.
You don't need a lot of resistance levels.

Don't buy it if:

You're looking for a rowing machine with a lot of resistance levels.
You want automatic resistance adjustments.
You sweat a lot and want a machine with a built-in fan.

Bottom Line:

The Echelon EX-3 is a good budget-friendly option for anyone who's looking for an interactive and affordable rowing experience. It comes with a large touchscreen and access to Echelon Fit workouts. However, it only has 32 resistance levels and doesn't offer automatic adjustments. If you're looking for a more feature-rich smart rowing machine, there are other better options available.

ProForm Pro 2000 Rowing Machine

The ProForm Pro 2000 Rowing Machine is a high-quality rowing machine that comes with a built-in touchscreen and access to iFit workouts. It's a great choice for those who are looking for a motivating and interactive workout.

Specifications :

Resistance: Magnetic resistance
Display: 10" touchscreen with iFit integration
Weight capacity: 325 pounds
Dimensions: 59" L x 24" W x 25.5" H
Weight: 108 pounds

Reasons to buy :

Interactive workouts: The iFit integration provides access to a wide variety of on-demand and live rowing workouts.
High-quality construction: The Pro 2000 is built with a solid steel frame and has a smooth and quiet magnetic resistance system.
Large touchscreen: The 10" touchscreen is easy to use and provides access to a variety of features.
Automatic adjustments: The Pro 2000 can automatically adjust the resistance levels based on your iFit workout.

Reasons to avoid :

Pricey: The Pro 2000 is one of the most expensive rowing machines on the market.
Requires a subscription: The iFit membership is required to access the full functionality of the Pro 2000.
Bulky: The Pro 2000 is a large and heavy machine.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're looking for a high-tech and interactive rowing machine.
You want access to a wide variety of on-demand and live rowing workouts.
You're willing to pay a premium for a high-quality rowing machine.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You're not interested in iFit workouts.
You have limited space.

Bottom Line:

The ProForm Pro 2000 is an excellent choice for anyone who's looking for a motivating and interactive rowing experience. It's a high-tech and high-quality rowing machine that's packed with features. However, it comes with a hefty price tag and requires an iFit membership to access its full functionality. If you're on a budget or not interested in iFit workouts, there are other more affordable and more basic rowing machines available.

Hydrow Rower

The Hydrow Rower is a smart rowing machine that offers a unique experience by connecting you to live and on-demand rowing classes with real-time instructors.

Specifications :

Resistance: Water resistance
Display: 22" touchscreen with Hydrow integration
Weight capacity: 325 pounds
Dimensions: 58" L x 24" W x 26" H
Weight: 110 pounds

Reasons to buy :

Live and on-demand classes: Hydrow offers a variety of live and on-demand rowing classes with real-time instructors.
Realistic rowing experience: The water resistance system provides a smooth and realistic rowing experience.
High-quality construction: Hydrow is built with a solid steel frame and has a high-quality design.
Immersive experience: The large touchscreen and real-time instructors create an immersive rowing experience.

Reasons to avoid :

Pricey: Hydrow is one of the most expensive rowing machines on the market.
Requires a subscription: The Hydrow membership is required to access the full functionality of the rowing machine.
Limited features: While it offers a unique experience, some users may find the lack of other features a drawback.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're looking for a high-quality and immersive rowing experience.
You want to experience live rowing classes with real-time instructors.
You're willing to pay a premium for a high-quality rowing machine.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You're not interested in live or on-demand classes.
You're looking for a rowing machine with a variety of features.

Bottom Line:

The Hydrow Rower is a unique and immersive rowing experience that allows you to connect with real-time instructors and take live or on-demand classes. It's a high-quality and well-designed rowing machine, but it comes with a hefty price tag and requires a membership to access its full functionality. If you're looking for a more affordable or feature-rich rowing machine, there are other options available.

Rogue Rower

The Rogue Rower is a high-quality rowing machine that's built for durability and performance. It's a great choice for serious rowers who are looking for a machine that can handle heavy-duty use.

Specifications :

Resistance: Air resistance
Display: Optional monitor
Weight capacity: 350 pounds
Dimensions: 83" L x 24" W x 19" H
Weight: 65 pounds

Reasons to buy :

Durable construction: The Rogue Rower is built with a solid steel frame and high-quality components.
Smooth rowing experience: The air resistance system provides a realistic and smooth rowing experience.
Versatile: The Rogue Rower can be used for a variety of workouts, from low-intensity cardio to high-intensity interval training.
Adjustable: The resistance can be adjusted to match your fitness level.

Reasons to avoid :

Pricey: The Rogue Rower is one of the most expensive rowing machines on the market.
Bulky: It's a large and heavy machine, so it may not be suitable for all homes.
No digital display: The Rogue Rower doesn't come with a built-in digital display.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're looking for a durable and high-quality rowing machine.
You're willing to spend a lot of money on a rowing machine.
You're a serious rower or want to get serious about rowing.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a tight budget.
You have limited space.
You're looking for a machine with a digital display.

Bottom Line:

The Rogue Rower is an excellent choice for serious rowers who are looking for a durable and high-quality rowing machine. It's built with a solid steel frame and provides a smooth and realistic rowing experience. However, it's a large and heavy machine that comes with a hefty price tag and doesn't have a built-in digital display. If you're on a budget or have limited space, there are other more affordable and compact rowing machines available.

Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine

The Concept2 Model E is a more affordable version of the Model D, but it still offers the same high-quality rowing experience. It's a good choice for those who want a durable and smooth rowing machine without breaking the bank.

Specifications :

Resistance: Air resistance
Display: PM5 monitor with performance metrics
Weight capacity: 350 pounds
Dimensions: 84" L x 24" W x 19" H
Weight: 55 pounds

Reasons to buy :

Excellent build quality: The Model E is built to last, with a solid aluminum frame and high-quality components.
Smooth rowing experience: The air resistance system provides a realistic and smooth rowing experience.
Versatile: The Model E can be used for a variety of workouts, from low-intensity cardio to high-intensity interval training.
User-friendly: The PM5 monitor is easy to use and provides a wealth of performance data.

Reasons to avoid :

Not as high-end as the Model D: The Model E has some slightly less expensive components than the Model D, but it still offers great value for the price.
Bulky: It's a large and heavy machine, so it may not be suitable for all homes.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're looking for a durable and high-quality rowing machine.
You want a smooth rowing experience.
You're looking for a good value for the price.

Don't buy it if:

You're on a very tight budget.
You have limited space.

Bottom Line:

The Concept2 Model E is a great choice for anyone who wants a durable and high-quality rowing machine. It's built to last and provides a smooth and realistic rowing experience. It's a more affordable option than the Model D, but it still offers excellent value for the price. If you're on a very tight budget or have limited space, there are other more affordable and compact rowing machines available.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW579 Rowing Machine

The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW579 Rowing Machine is a budget-friendly option that offers a good workout for the price. It's a great choice for beginners who are looking for a basic rowing machine.

Specifications :

Resistance: Magnetic resistance
Display: LCD monitor with performance metrics
Weight capacity: 250 pounds
Dimensions: 52" L x 22" W x 20" H
Weight: 48 pounds

Reasons to buy :

Affordable: The SF-RW579 is one of the most affordable rowing machines on the market.
Compact: It's relatively small and lightweight, making it easy to store.
Easy to assemble: It's easy to put together.
Comes with a digital display: The LCD monitor provides performance metrics like time, distance, calories burned, and strokes per minute.

Reasons to avoid :

Not as durable as more expensive models: It's made from less expensive materials, so it may not last as long as more expensive models.
Not as smooth as more expensive models: The magnetic resistance system is not as smooth as the air or water resistance systems found in more expensive models.
Limited features: The LCD monitor is basic and doesn't offer as many features as more expensive models.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're on a tight budget.
You're looking for a basic rowing machine that's easy to assemble.
You have limited space.
You're a beginner rower.

Don't buy it if:

You're looking for a durable and high-quality rowing machine.
You're looking for a smooth rowing experience.
You need advanced features and tracking.

Bottom Line:

The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW579 is a good budget-friendly option for beginners who are looking for a basic rowing machine. It's affordable, compact, and easy to assemble. However, it's not as durable or smooth as more expensive models, and it doesn't offer as many features. If you're looking for a more durable and high-quality rowing machine, there are other better options available.

Joroto Magnetic Rowing Machine

A compact and affordable rowing machine that is perfect for beginners.

Specifications :

8 levels of magnetic resistance
LCD monitor displays time, distance, calories burned, strokes per minute, and total count
Weight capacity: 250 lbs
Dimensions: 46.5" L x 20.5" W x 19.5" H

Reasons to buy :

Affordable price
Compact and easy to store
Quiet operation
Comfortable seat

Reasons to avoid :

Limited resistance levels
Basic LCD monitor
Not as sturdy as some other rowing machines

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You are a beginner looking for an affordable rowing machine
You have limited space

Don't buy it if:

You are looking for a rowing machine with a lot of resistance levels
You need a high-quality LCD monitor

Bottom Line:

The Joroto Magnetic Rowing Machine is a great option for beginners who are looking for an affordable and compact rowing machine. It is quiet and easy to use, and it provides a good workout. However, it does have some limitations, such as limited resistance levels and a basic LCD monitor. If you are looking for a more advanced rowing machine, you may want to consider another option.

Fitness Reality 1000 Super Max Rowing Machine

A high-quality rowing machine that offers a challenging workout.

Specifications :

8 levels of magnetic resistance
LCD monitor displays time, distance, calories burned, strokes per minute, and total count
Weight capacity: 275 lbs
Dimensions: 58" L x 22" W x 23" H

Reasons to buy :

High-quality construction
Smooth and quiet operation
Comfortable seat and footrests
Durable and long-lasting

Reasons to avoid :

Relatively expensive
Large and bulky

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You are looking for a high-quality rowing machine
You want a challenging workout
You have enough space to store it

Don't buy it if:

You are on a tight budget
You have limited space

Bottom Line:

The Fitness Reality 1000 Super Max Rowing Machine is a great choice for those who are serious about their fitness. It is well-built, durable, and provides a challenging workout. However, it is also relatively expensive and bulky. If you are looking for a more affordable or compact rowing machine, you may want to consider another option.

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Yosuda Magnetic Rowing Machine

A popular and affordable rowing machine that offers a good value for the price.

Specifications :

8 levels of magnetic resistance
LCD monitor displays time, distance, calories burned, strokes per minute, and total count
Weight capacity: 265 lbs
Dimensions: 51" L x 22" W x 20.5" H

Reasons to buy :

Affordable price
Smooth and quiet operation
Comfortable seat
Easy to assemble

Reasons to avoid :

Basic LCD monitor
Not as sturdy as some other rowing machines

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You are looking for an affordable rowing machine
You want a quiet and smooth workout

Don't buy it if:

You need a high-quality LCD monitor
You are looking for a very sturdy rowing machine

Bottom Line:

The Yosuda Magnetic Rowing Machine is a great option for those looking for an affordable and quiet rowing machine. It is easy to assemble and provides a good workout. However, it does have some limitations, such as a basic LCD monitor and not as sturdy construction as some other rowing machines. If you are looking for a more advanced rowing machine, you may want to consider another option.

Stamina 1215 InMotion Rower

A budget-friendly rowing machine that is perfect for beginners.

Specifications :

8 levels of magnetic resistance
LCD monitor displays time, distance, calories burned, strokes per minute, and total count
Weight capacity: 250 lbs
Dimensions: 54" L x 22" W x 21" H

Reasons to buy :

Affordable price
Compact and easy to store
Comfortable seat
Easy to assemble

Reasons to avoid :

Limited resistance levels
Basic LCD monitor
Not as smooth as some other rowing machines

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You are a beginner looking for an affordable rowing machine
You have limited space

Don't buy it if:

You are looking for a rowing machine with a lot of resistance levels
You need a high-quality LCD monitor

Bottom Line:

The Stamina 1215 InMotion Rower is a good option for beginners who are looking for an affordable and compact rowing machine. It is easy to assemble and provides a good workout. However, it does have some limitations, such as limited resistance levels and a basic LCD monitor. If you are looking for a more advanced rowing machine, you may want to consider another option.

Choosing the right rowing machine for your weight loss journey is a crucial step. By considering factors like your fitness level, budget, and desired features, you can find a machine that motivates you to achieve your goals. Remember that consistency is key, and incorporating rowing into your workout routine can effectively burn calories, build muscle, and improve your cardiovascular health.

While the rowing machines on this list offer excellent value and performance, ultimately, the best machine for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. It's always a good idea to read reviews and compare features before making a final decision.

Don't be afraid to try out different models at your local gym or fitness store to see which one feels most comfortable and engaging. The best rowing machine is one you'll actually use, so finding a model you enjoy is essential.

With the right rowing machine and a dedicated workout plan, you can effectively lose weight, improve your overall fitness, and achieve your health goals. So, get ready to row your way to a healthier and happier you!