Get in Shape With the Best Rowing Machine Picks Tested by a Fitness Expert

Pros

• Quiet
• Form Assist teaches you how to row and improves form
• Easy to operate if you're familiar with Peloton programs
• Foot straps are easy to slip on and off

Cons

• Expensive at $3,295
• Large; it may not fit all spaces at 8 x 2 feet

What we like about it: This is Peloton’s first smart rowing machine, which teaches you how to row and correct your form. Similar to other Peloton equipment, you receive white-glove delivery and it’s assembled in your home. The delivery people are pros, so they have it up and running in half an hour, tops. It has a 24-inch HD touchscreen that's adjustable and easy to rotate. 

Using the Peloton Row is an experience, unlike the others I had when testing rowing machines. Before you take a class, you have to calibrate your rowing form. Once your rowing form is customized, you can select to Just Row, do a Scenic Row or take a rowing class from the Peloton roster. This is where another feature, known as Form Assist, comes into play.

Form Assist offers real-time feedback on your form during class using the same sensors from the calibration process. Peloton says the rower measures your position hundreds of times a second to generate Form Assist and track form errors. You have the option to turn off Form Assist, but it defeats the purpose of owning a Peloton Row. When it's on, an image of a digital person sitting on a rowing machine shows up on the left-hand side of the screen and moves in sync with you. If your form is off, you'll see the person's body highlighted in red, the part of the stroke where you need to correct your form. After the class is over, you can see your rowing stats and Form Rating score, which uses a circle graph and shows you a total score out of 100. Beneath that, you'll see a detailed explanation of where you're making errors, along with tips on how to fix them. I saw improvement in my form rather quickly during the period I tested the Peloton Row, thanks to the Form Assist feature. 

Who it’s best for: If money and space are no object, you’ll love this rowing machine. I had concerns with its size because it's on the larger side (it's 8 feet by 2 feet and weighs 156 pounds). An anchor is included with your order, so you can store the machine safely upright, but you'll want to make sure your ceiling can clear its length. 
The Form Assist feature is the selling point and a good option if you’re new to rowing or trying to improve your rowing form. This rower is a no-brainer if you're already a Peloton member and have other equipment from the brand. If you're a new member, you will have to sign up for the Peloton All-Access membership ($44 a month). The plus side is that since the screen swivels, you can easily take other classes that require you to be on the floor. If money is no object and you're serious about rowing, you'll love the Peloton Row.

Who shouldn’t buy it: If you lack space in your home, this may not be the ideal rowing machine for you. It’s also not ideal if you’re on a budget since this is the most expensive rowing machine on this list at $3,295, and there are more affordable options to choose from. It’s also not necessary if you aren’t already a Peloton member and don’t care much for becoming one, since there are other rowing machines that function similarly. 

Pros

• High-end rower with a smooth ride
• Easy to assemble-about 30 minutes with additional help
• Well built

Cons

• Expensive
• Bigger than standard rowing machine at 86"L x 25"W x 47"H, so won't fit all spaces
• You have to pay extra for the anchor that stores it upright

Why we like it: While testing rowing machines, I got input from the CNET Wellness team, and we collectively agreed that the Hydrow Pro Rower was a smooth and high-quality offering. Not only does the Hydrow Pro Rower look sleek and futuristic, but the stride also feels smoother and natural. I liked that the Hydrow Pro Rower looked more futuristic than other rowing machines I've seen. It uses electromagnetic drag technology to mimic the outdoor rowing experience. The rower consists of a 22-inch touchscreen that gives you access to over 5,000 workouts, whether you're using the machine or the Hydrow app. To view the Hydrow classes, you'll need an all-access membership, which is an additional $44 per month but gives you unlimited profiles for your family. 

Who it’s best for: Similar to the Peloton rower, the Hydrow is high-priced at $2,195 hence the luxury label. So if it’s in your budget and you want to splurge, this rower is a solid pick. You’ll be able to have thousands of classes at your fingertips and don’t even need a Peloton membership. 

Who should avoid it: If a rowing machine that’s over $2,000 isn’t in your budget, then pass on the Hydrow Pro. You also have to purchase the anchor separately to store it upright; it retails for $80 and is essentially a strap screwed to the wall. I found this pricey, especially since the unit itself is expensive. Without the ability to store the machine upright, it made me question whether people with smaller spaces should buy it.

It also needs to be close to your Wi-Fi at home since that’s the best way to guarantee a good connection. I didn’t love the nylon foot straps this machine had, because you have to fiddle with the strap to tighten or loosen it. I find this style restrictive, and it can make it hard to get out of the machine if you're doing a HIIT circuit, for example. 

Pros

• Light and easy to use if you've never rowed before
• Can hold up to 350 pounds so versatile for people of various weights and heights
• Easy to store upright

Cons

• Plastic design looks like it may not be the most durable
• Function is limited if you don't sign up for Echelon class membership
• Warranty only lasts for a year

What we like about it: I found the Echelon Row-S less intimidating than the other smart rowers and appreciated parts of its design, like the handle's protective covering to prevent blisters. It didn’t take long to assemble out of the box (maybe 30 minutes at most), which is a plus. I also liked the footplate design the most of all the rowing machines we reviewed, because it felt intuitive to use the fastener straps. Additionally, the lever underneath the machine that lets you store the rower upright was easy to find and lift. The machine is on the lighter side, which makes it easy to move around. Despite being light, the machine can hold up to 350 pounds (158.7 kg) comfortably; therefore, it's versatile for people of all sizes and weights. 

Who it’s best for: This rowing machine is best for beginners or those with limited space in their home. It was designed to be easily stored upright and is simple in terms of design. Regardless, it is a sturdy rowing machine that rows smoothly and gets the job done. It also has a 22-inch HD touchscreen, which is a nice option if you want to take classes through the Echelon Live and On-Demand class membership. There are three levels of membership to fit your budget: a year membership ($33.33 a month), a $40 month-to-month option or a lower-level membership for $12 per month. You’ll have access to thousands of classes besides rowing, including yoga, cycling, HIIT or strength training.

Who shouldn’t buy it: If space and money are not a factor and you want a more high-tech and luxurious rowing machine, this rower isn’t the best option. I would recommend the Peloton Row or Hydrow Pro Rower instead.

Pros

• Versatile 3-in-1 machine
• Comfortable, well-cushioned seat
• Can be stored after use
• Wide footplate to accommodate tall rowers
• Affordable membership at $25 a month
• Doesn't need to be plugged in to use

Cons

• Doesn't have a touchscreen; you have to use your smartphone or tablet
• Costs extra to buy accessories

What we like about it: The LIT Strength machine is an all-in-one rower, Pilates reformer and strength trainer. Unlike other machines on the list, the LIT is a water rower, with resistance ranging from 10 to 40 pounds (4.5 to 18.1 kg) of water in a dual-tank drum. The good thing is you won't ever have to change the water because the machine comes with a lifetime supply of chlorine tablets. 

I tested this machine at a showroom, so I did not experience what delivery and setup look like. The machine also has resistance bands (up to 100 pounds or 45.3 kilograms of resistance) looped around both sides of the rower handle, ready for strength training or Pilates exercises. I liked that this machine (similar to the Aviron) had a wider footplate, so if you're tall or have wider feet, it offers plenty of room. I also learned that it was designed to let you use your hamstrings more during the workout. The rowing handle is also properly coated with a protective rubber layer to minimize the chance of blisters. 

Who it’s best for: This rowing machine is best for someone who wants a water rower with extra features. If you’re short on time or like to have multiple pieces of workout equipment at your disposal, then this rower may be a good choice. This is also a good choice if multiple people of different heights are going to use it in your household. LIT's membership costs $25 per month or $199 annually and comes with a three-month complimentary trial upon receiving your rower.

Who shouldn’t get it: If you’re on a tight budget or don’t care for a rowing machine to have the extras, the LIT Strength Machine is not the best choice for you. Some people don’t like water rowers because they fear they might leak. So if that’s one of your concerns, it’s best to steer clear of this rower and choose a different one. Additionally, one of the things I thought was lacking was a screen, since you can only access the membership through your smartphone or tablet. For a machine that has extras and costs over $1,000, at the very least, a screen could’ve been added somewhere on the rower. 

Pros

• Unique design makes it two machines in one
• Ideal if you're limited in space and want two machines
• Sturdy enough to withstand both rowing and indoor skiing

Cons

• Heavy machine that requires at least two people to assemble
• Monitor is dated and doesn't have a touchscreen
• Certain pieces don't look as durable as they should be

What we like about it: I liked that the Ski-Row Air + Pwr is a two-in-one machine that combines skiing and rowing. I was surprised by how sturdy and well-made it was to withstand two types of fitness activity. Assembly took over half an hour and required two people, since the machine is big. 

I’d used a Ski-Erg previously, which functions the same way as the skiing aspect on the Ski-Row, so I had something to compare it to. When the machine was adjusted to the skiing position, I thought the ski handles looked and felt legit, and it was the right height (for grabbing the handles), even for shorter individuals. The machine uses air and magnetic resistance as you're rowing or skiing. It also lets you connect via Bluetooth to an ANT Plus Heart Rate monitor.

Who it’s best for: I think the Ski-Row is a great piece of equipment to have at home (or at the gym) if you're looking for a two-in-one machine that won't take up extra room. The monitor is standard, like on most rowing machines, and reads time, distance, stroke rate, pace, resistance level and calories burned. The only app compatible with this rower is the GymTrakr app, but the Bluetooth and ANT Plus Heart Rate monitor let you connect with other wearables. If you opt for this machine, just make sure your ceiling can clear the rower when it’s stored upright, since it stands 7 feet tall. 

Who shouldn’t buy it: If you don’t care for a two-in-one machine and want a simple rower, then the Ski-Row is not the best pick for you. If you’re looking for a more high-tech rowing machine, then you’re better off with one of the more luxurious options on this list. For a two-in-one machine, this one lacks a touchscreen, so it leaves much to be desired if you like the smart aspect that some fitness equipment consists of nowadays. 

Pros

• Small enough to fit in an apartment
• Same great features as the original rower
• $600 cheaper than the Hydrow

Cons

• No new upgrades, except for size
• Vertical storage kit still not included

What we like about it: One of my original issues with the Hydrow Pro Rower was the size of the machine. The company rectified the issue by shrinking the original model by a few inches. I had this one delivered to my home and was impressed by its size. It easily fit in the space I had in mind for my apartment. When it was delivered, the Hydrow team assembled it incredibly fast and ensured I could access my account before they left. 

You'll need to set up this machine in a space with a power outlet and a good Wi-Fi connection. The Hydrow Wave design looks more like that of a standard Flywheel rowing machine and uses a smaller footprint than its predecessor at 80"L x 19"W x 43"H. It still has the same high-tech qualities, like the electromagnetic drag technology, a touchscreen and access to Hydrow's workout programs. It's also $500 cheaper, making it a more affordable option. You'll still need to pay for the all-access membership ($33.33 a month) in order to take classes. Since it’s a smaller footprint than the bigger Hydrow, you don’t have to worry about it taking up as much space, so you don’t necessarily need to buy the anchor. 

The rowing experience, on the other hand, was similar to the original, and I'm glad that aspect remained the same. It wasn't too loud, and everything was smooth and comfortable, from the seat to the pulling motion.

Who it’s best for: If you're looking for a high-tech smart rower that doesn’t take up much space, the Hydrow Wave is the best choice. You’ll be able to enjoy all the smart features the Hydrow Rower has to offer, but at a more compact size. 

Who should avoid it: If you prefer a rowing machine that’s simpler, you might not want the Hydro Wave. Instead, you may like a simpler rower like the Concept-2, which is the classic rowing machine you see in gyms, which we didn’t get to test this time around.