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Sunday, April 18th
If you've ever used a rowing machine at a gym or rowing studio, chances are good that you were on a Concept2. These rowers are so well-respected that they're used for competitions around the world and for time standards in recruiting athletes! But don't let that intimidate you: all 3 of Concept2's rowing machines are quick to assemble and easy for even the most beginner users to figure out. And, if you're motivated by tracking your stats and competing virtually with people around the globe, you'll get that and much more. Concept2 is one of our favorite options for rowing machines.
If you can use it for a workout, chances are good that LifeFitness makes and sells it - from cardio machines to weight systems and beyond. With only two rowers in their inventory, both priced well over $1,000, they may not have something for every customer. Plus, their machines are missing a lot of the bells and whistles shoppers would expect for that kind of money.
Maybe you got a taste at a HIIT class like Eat the Frog or Orangetheory, you're a CrossFit devotee, or you just get in a rowing session when you hit Planet Fitness or another gym. Many people have a love-hate relationship with this particular piece of fitness equipment, so we applaud you if you're looking for a quality machine to add to your home gym!
You probably know all of the reasons to love rowing machines: few cardio workouts give you the total body focus that's achieved while rowing. Generally speaking, a rowing routine uses 65-75% legs and 25-35% of the upper body - strengthening legs, arms, and abs all at the same time. That's efficient!
Another huge reason to take advantage of rowing is its low-impact style. There's no pounding on already-sensitive joints while using a rowing machine, just a push and a pull that glides back and forth with whatever amount of effort you choose to use.
What style of rowing machine is best? That largely depends on preference. Resistance comes in four ways: air (flywheel), magnetic, pistons or cylinders, and water. If you've used a machine at a fitness center, you're probably familiar with flywheel and water rowers already. Those styles also do the best job of imitating the feel (and the sound, for tank-base systems) of rowing in open water.
So, how can you tell which rowing machine is the right one for your home gym? Here are several criteria to keep in mind as you shop for a rower:
TopConsumerReviews.com has reviewed and ranked the best rowing machines available today. We hope this information helps you pick the right rower to meet all your health and fitness goals!
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