Rowing Machine Buyers Guide
Rowing Machine Overview
Rowing machines are a great cardiovascular workout that also tones the upper and lower body, few pieces of equipment can compare to a rowing
machine for all over body toning. A rowing machine will help you burn calories at a fast pace and help tone fat and build up muscle.
The principle of rowing involves a pushing and pulling action, which means you get to work your calves, thighs, arms, shoulders, and back in one
huge movement. If you are looking to invest in a home rowing machine then why not read our Rowing Machine Buyer's Guide will give you a few
pointers and things to consider before buying.
What are the Benefits of Using a Rowing Machine?
A home rowing machine offers a cardiovascular workout without high impact. This means your heart and lungs will work hard without causing a lot
of unnecessary strain on your joints, as other exercises can often do. Many models are available with various resistance levels that will enable
you to get the best workout for your needs.
When it comes to a total body workout, rowing machines offer just that. It has been reported by experts that only swimming offers a better total
body workout. However, since not everyone can afford or find the space for a swimming pool, a rowing machine is often the most feasible choice.
How easy is it to use a home Rowing Machine?
Many people incorrectly assume that rowing machines are meant for off-season rowers. While it is a beneficial piece of equipment for them to
use, anyone can use one to develop his muscles. We would say its a very universal machine and easy for anyone to use, the actual motion of
rowing is a natural one, so anyone can learn quickly how to use their rowning machine at home. As it's a low impact exercise, rowing at home is
generally safe and will not cause injury to joints.However, as with any home exercise machine, if you have any underlying health concerns please
consult your doctor before you purchase a machine or embark on a new exercise routine.
How much do I need to pay for a decent Rowing Machine?
It is helpful to understand what expense you are looking at before rushing out to buy a rowing machine. By having a general idea of the prices,
you can determine how much you are able to spend, and you can narrow your search to brands and models that fit your budget. This also helps
withstand the pressures of salespeople who may only have sales in mind and not your best interests. The last thing you want is to be pressured
into spending more than you can afford.
A quality rowing machine should be around £200 - £350, most rowing machines come with basic features such as rowing functions, speed, time,
distance, and calories burned, so check for these features and only pay for what you need and know you will use. You can find models of less,
however, it's important to carefully check the quality of those cheaper rowing machines. Like most things, home fitness equipment is no
different - you get what you pay for.
At the top end of the rowing machine market you can pay hundreds of pounds, sell for as much as £1,000 or more. Don't assume that to get the
best rowing machine you have to spend that kind of money. You can buy a perfectly good, high-quality rowing machine for much less, especially
if you are new to the sport, don't shouldn't need to pay much more than £200 to begin with. Remember to consider your fitness goals, budget, and
expected daily usage when considering how much you spend and which brands and models to consider.
What is Resistance in Rowing Machines?
When it comes to choosing a rowing machine that's right for you - you really must understand the prinicple of resistance and with a rowing
machine the main thing to look for is its resistance type. Standard models come with one of four resistance types: magnetic resistance, air
resistance, piston resistence and water resistance. By understanding each type of resistance they each offer will help you make the right choice
of rower for you.
Magnetic Resitance
Magnetic Resistance is obtained by powerful electromagnets that control the resistance of the rowing machine. These machines offer a smoother
motion and are almost silent. One advantage of a magnetic resistance model is that you can adjust the resistance, changing it to provide the
perfect workout for you. However, they are not as easy to store as a piston resistance machine due to the magnetic models having a long main
rail that cannot be folded up for compact storage. This machine is best for someone who has the space to make brdt use of it.
Air Resistance
Air Resistance rowing machines models are popular with off-season rowers. This type of resistance comes from your own pace, with resistance
increasing as your pace increases. This allows you to have some control over your workout, the fatser you go the harder it becomes. However,
this type of resistance rower can be quite noisy. Like the magnetic resistance rower it has a longer main rail that often cannot be folded for
easy storage. While the longer rail is beneficial for taller users, it does not lend itself to compact storage or for those with limited space.
Piston Resistance
Piston Resistance comes from hydraulic cylinders that are attached to the arms of the rowing machine. Because of the compact size of these
pistons, these models are typically not as large as other models. Many fit under beds for storage, so you don’t necessarily have to find a
permanent place for your machine. They are also less expensive than most other models, so you don’t feel as much of a dent in your wallet.
However, they often do not offer as accurate a rowing motion as other types of resistance models. While you will still get a good workout, the
motion is not as smooth as it is with other types.
Water Resistance
Water Resistance rowing machines provide the closest experience to actual rowing. Like the air rowers as your pace increases, so does the
resistance. With the water rower, you are able to adjust the resistance and pressure by adding or removing water in the resistance tank. While
this may appear to be a good choice because it allows some flexibility, you should weigh the disadvantages as well. These machines are not as
noisy as air resistance models, but they are second in terms of noise. With this model you will need plenty of space to allow the machine to
stay in one position. Because the resistance is driven from a tank full of water, the water rower is extremely heavy.