Which Rowing Machine is Right for Me? Your Essential Rowing Machine Buying Guide

So, you’re ready to bring the feel of the water indoors and dive into the world of rowing machines. Good choice! Rowing is one of the best all-around workouts: it hits nearly every muscle group, torches calories, and is low-impact on your joints. But with so many options out there, it’s easy to feel a little lost. If you’re wondering ‘which rowing machine is right for me?’ this rowing machine buying guide breaks down the must-knows so you can pick the perfect rowing machine for you.

 

Rowing Machine Resistance Types: What’s Pushing Back?

Rowing machine resistance is what gives you that feeling of pulling against water and keeps your workout challenging. Different rowing machines offer different types of resistance, each with its own unique characteristics, so let’s break down what they mean and how they might fit into your workout routine.

 

Water Resistance

Designed to mimic the feeling of rowing on water, these machines have paddles suspended in a water tank. The harder you pull, the greater the resistance – much like actual rowing. It’s smooth, natural, and sounds calming.

Strengths: Water rowers are quieter and provide a realistic rowing experience. They look sleek, and for some, having that aesthetic water tank is a real plus.

Drawbacks: It is not convenient to adjust the resistance by adding or removing water. The price is also relatively expensive.

  

Magnetic Resistance

With magnetic rowers, resistance is created by magnets moving in opposition to each other – think smooth and silent. You can adjust the resistance level manually or electronically, which is ideal if you’re looking for controlled intensity.

Strengths: Magnetic rowers are super quiet – perfect for apartments, shared spaces, or late-night workouts. They’re also low maintenance, as there’s no water tank to worry about, and the resistance levels are consistent.

Drawbacks: You don’t get that natural “rowing” feel; the resistance doesn’t change with your stroke power. If you want a machine that mirrors outdoor rowing, magnetic might feel a bit too “steady.”

 

Air/Wind Resistance

Air rowers generate resistance with a fan that spins as you row – the harder you row, the more resistance you feel. They’re widely used in gyms and competitions for a high-intensity, powerful workout. 

Strengths: Air rowers are ideal for those looking for an intense, challenging workout, and they’re often more affordable. They can handle heavier usage, making them a solid pick for anyone with serious fitness goals. 

Drawbacks: They can get noisy since they work with a fan, so if you’re in a small or shared space, you might need to warn the roommates (or invest in some noise-canceling headphones).

  

Dual Water & Magnetic Resistance

Why not have the best of both worlds? Dual water and magnetic resistance rowers bring a bit of each into your workout. You get the natural feel of water with the adjustable control of magnets.

Strengths: With adjustable magnetic settings, dual rowers like our JOYSONG Compact Cube Rower can offer more versatility than pure water rowers and more of that on-the-water feel than magnetic ones. Great for those who want variety.

Drawbacks: Dual resistance rowers can be a bit heavier and at times, pricier. They also take up a bit more space, as they’re built to combine both resistance systems. However, the Cube Compact Rower folds neatly into stored dimensions of 24.33″L x 17.87″W x 21.85″H making it a strong dual resistance rower choice.

 

Consider Your Environment and Space: Will It Fit?

When buying a rowing machine, think about where it will live. If space is tight, consider foldable or upright-storing options. Water and air rowers are usually bigger and require a bit more room, while magnetic and dual rowers often have options that fold for easier storage.

 

Here’s a quick checklist:

- Measure your available space.

- Check storage options – can it fold or stand upright when not in use?

- Think about mobility – will you need to move it often? Water rowers are heavier, while air and magnetic rowers might be easier to shift.

 

Noise Levels: Will It Be Too Loud?

Rowing machines vary in sound, and it’s good to think about the noise level, especially if you live with others. Here’s a quick noise rundown:

Water rowers have a soft swooshing sound, similar to rowing in water – calming for some, though still audible.

Magnetic rowers are the quietest. Ideal if you need silence or have shared walls.

Air rowers can be noisy due to the fan, so they’re best for home gyms or garages where you can get a bit loud.

Dual resistance rowers can vary, though they usually make a mix of water sounds and some mechanical noise.

  

Fitness Goals: What’s Your Game Plan?

Consider what you’re aiming for with your rower:

Weight loss and cardio: A magnetic or air rower works well here, especially if you’re doing steady, longer sessions.

Strength training: Look for options with high resistance levels, such as water and dual resistance rowers, which can offer greater resistance as you row harder. 

All-around fitness: If you want a mix, a dual resistance rower or a water rower is fantastic for getting that outdoor rowing feel while still challenging yourself.

  

Rowing Machine Features to Look For

Rowers these days come packed with tech and functions, so here’s what rowing machine features to consider: 

Resistance Levels: Adjustable resistance is key if you want to vary your workouts. Water and air rowers are more responsive to stroke intensity, while magnetic rowers offer steady, adjustable levels.

Comfort Elements: Look for comfortable seating, preferably with some padding. An ergonomic handle and adjustable footrests add extra comfort.

Digital Monitors: If you’re a data-lover, consider rowers with digital displays for tracking time, distance, calories, and more. 

At the end of the day, the best rowing machine is the one that suits your goals, your space, and your style. Magnetic rowers keep things quiet and steady, water rowers give that dreamy on-the-water feel, and dual resistance rowers let you fine-tune every stroke.

If you’re seeking a quiet rowing machine for an all-round workout, the JOYSONG Home Gym Cube Rower marries versatility with space-saving design. With its whisper-quiet 24-level magnetic resistance, you’ll get the intensity you need without disturbing others, making it a great choice for apartments or shared spaces.

This compact rower also doubles as a complete home gym, offering over 80 different workout options that go beyond rowing, from strength training to core-focused exercises.