How To Choose A Rowing Machine

Rowing Machines - What Will I Get For My Money?

Exercise programs, variable resistance and heart rate monitors

1. Methods of changing resistance levels
   
   Manual
   Usually by turning a dial. Varying the resistance varies the intensity of your workout and changing the resistance manually is fine, but it will not be as accurate as electronic methods.
2. Electronic Resistance controlled via the console and linked in with exercise and heart rate control programs. Great if you just want the rowing machine to keep you working at the right intensity. Usually more expensive.
   
   
3. Monitoring your heart rate
   
   Heart rate control programs in the more expensive rowing machiness will monitor your heart rate and automatically vary the resistance in your workout to keep you working at your preferred rate.

Rowing Machines - How Do They Work?

It's all about resistance

In rowing machines the workout is created by rowing against resistance. This resistance is typically one of 4 main types:

Hydraulic (Piston) Resistance Rowers

Usually cheaper and can take up less space. Often foldable. Can be less smooth to row than other types. Adjustable resistance. See the Stamina 1205 Precision Rower

Air (Or Flywheel) Resistance Rowers

Resistance is created by the user's pulling action, so the harder you row, the greater the resistance. As with the hydraulic rowing machines, can be noisy but will still give an excellent workout often for less money. See the

Magnetic Resistance

Extremely smooth action and very, very quiet. Easily adjustable resistance. Can be more expensive. Some models, such as the BodyCraft VR100 Rowing Machine offer a mixture of air and magnetic resistance for a greater range of workouts.

Water Resistance

Often built within a wooden frame, but not always. See the First Degree Fitness Evolution Series E-216 Fluid Compact Light Commercial Rower

Designed give as realistic a row as possible. Adjustable resistance. Top of the range so more expensive.

Rowing Machines - What Will Mine Be Used For?

How much will you use your rowing machine?