Table of Contents
Though not all of us can be fitness pros, regular exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.
There are hundreds of ways to stay active, but one of the most popular among athletes and casual exercisers alike is the rowing machine.
They help you achieve a full-body workout without any high-impact stresses on your joints and muscles.
A rowing workout is great for beginners as well, but the variety in difficulty means that anyone can benefit from a rowing session.
Rowing machines are a great investment for your mental and physical wellbeing, but they aren’t all the same.
If you’re struggling to notice differences between various models or have no idea where to start your search, you’ve come to the right place.
We looked at 45 products and 363 reviews over 65 hours to ensure we chose the best rowing machines in Canada for you to consider.
These products have been selected carefully with quality, value, and effectiveness in mind to guarantee you choose a great all-around rowing machine for your home workouts.
Following our last update, we recommend the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine for its compatibility with all user types, effective training mechanisms, and overall quality.
In a rush? Buy it Now on Amazon!
Rowing Machine Comparative Table
| Product | Summary | Rating | Price | |
|
TOP PICK
|
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine
|
|
9.4/10 | See price on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
UPGRADE PICK
|
Echelon Row-S Connected Rowing Machine
|
|
9.1/10 | See price on Echelon Fit Canada |
|
BUDGET PICK
|
Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine
|
|
9.0/10 | See price on Amazon |
Our Pick for The Best Rowing Machine
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine Review
The Best Overall
Sunny Health & Fitness
There is a lot to consider when deciding on a rowing machine. If you’re interested in a model that is safe, inclusive, and offers a great training experience no matter your experience level, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine is the best choice. Plus, its priced fairly, too.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine Video Review
What We Think of The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine
This Sunny Health & Fitness rowing machine has everything going for it. Whether you are looking for a rowing machine for the first time or you have experience with them, this model can provide you with a great training experience and all of the features you depend on and expect. It weighs nearly 61 lbs, so you will likely need some help getting it set up. It is made of alloy steel so is incredibly durable, and it can support a weight of up to 300 lbs safely.
The magnetic resistance built into this machine provides a great workout, and with 8 different resistance settings, you can start at a level that is comfortable for you and work your way up as you feel ready. The textured, non-slip foot pedals will help you feel secure, and they have straps to ensure your feet don’t move around or fall off while you’re working out.
I can’t imagine that I could have purchased a better rowing machine. I’ve known about this company for a long time, so I trusted their quality right off the bat. The magnetic resistance works really well and there is actually a noticeable difference between each resistance level. I am so excited to continue my fitness training with this machine, it really does work the entire body.
derek m.
There are two structural elements that allow this machine to become a part of any household. It is built with two wheels to make it easier to move around, and it can fold essentially in half in order to reduce the amount of floor space it takes up when you aren’t actively using it. The LCD monitor is another great element of this machine. It can track your time, count, calories, and total count. Plus, it can provide a scan and indicate how you are progressing towards your goals.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 78” x 19.1” x 23.2”
- Weight: 60.9 lbs
- Material: Alloy steel
- Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
- Levels of Resistance: 8
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Warranty: None
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- LCD console tracks time, count, calories, total count, and can scan to display progress towards goals
- Has two wheels for mobility when needed
- Has textured, non skip foot pedals with straps
- Can fold in half for better storage
Cons
- Warranty coverage only applies in the USA
Our Final Opinion about the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine is great for every household. With a rich list of features that improve the overall value and user experience of this model, you certainly won’t regret making this choice. It is built to last and store easily, so it can be used in any environment.
Our Upgrade Pick for a Rowing Machine
Echelon Row-S Connected Rowing Machine Review
The High Performance Pick
Echelon
The Echelon Row-S Machine offers everything you could need for an upgraded at-home rowing experience. It is equipped with the most helpful and updated features, though its price tag may be too hefty for many buyers.
See price
on Echelon Fit Canada
Echelon Row-S Connected Rowing Machine Video Review
What We Think of The Echelon Row-S Connected Rowing Machine
If you are a serious rowing machine user, you may want a high performance model that can keep you challenged, entertained, and comfortable during the entire workout. The Echelon Row-S Machine is our upgrade pick because it offers the best features for enhanced workouts.
This rower offers an enhanced workout because it features a handlebar resistant shifter, which makes it easy to shift through difficulty levels without changing your position. More so, the machine is designed for a seamless glide to make the workout much more convenient and comfortable.
The nicest features of the rower are its digital enhancements. This rowing machine comes with a 22 inch screen so that you can watch classes or scenic screens to get you in the workout mood. The machine comes with perfect resolution, fast speed, and Wi-Fi capabilities. For an all-encompassing experience, the machine is equipped with dual audio jacks too.
More impressively, the machine has the most advanced technology of all of these features. For example, the TV screen doesn’t just let you watch content. It has a touch screen so that you don’t have to worry about remote controls or keeping up with other pieces.
When you put all of these features together, you don’t just get a run of the mill workout contraption. Instead, it is a machine that can transport you to a complete rowing environment to maximize your workout and health.
Sturdy and smooth. It’s a bit more expensive because of its additional technology, but it shows the brand’s great reputation and is more affordable than other tech savvy options.
filtrated
Because of how many features the machine comes with, it’s no surprise that this machine is highly expensive. Due to its price, we only recommend the model to individuals who take machine rowing seriously. Beginners and those on a budget will appreciate a more affordable model instead. At least the price tomorrow comes with a one year warranty.
Overall, the Echelon Row-S Machine is the best rowing machine on the market. Its numerous high performance features make it ideal for serious rowers that need the best workout machine possible. The only downside is its price, which makes the machine less suitable for beginners or those on a budget.
Echelon Row-S Connected Rowing Machine Specifications
- Brand: Echelon
- Dimensions: 48” x 24” x 69”
- Weight: 108 lbs.
- Material: Aluminum and steel
- Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
- Levels of Resistance: 32
- Weight Capacity: 350 lbs.
Echelon Row-S Connected Rowing Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Smooth and sturdy rowing experiences
- Many tech additions
- Encapsulates you in the rowing experience
- 1 year warranty
Cons
Cons
- Highly expensive
Our Final Opinion About the Echelon Row-S Connected Rowing Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 3.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
The Echelon Row-S Machine is a great choice for serious rowers that want to be transported to a gym or rowing destination. Although expensive, it comes with numerous high performing additions and a great warranty to make up for the price.
See price
on Echelon Fit Canada
Our Budget Pick for a Rowing Machine
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine Review
The Budget Pick
Sunny Health & Fitness
While many rowing machines take up a lot of space and cost an arm AND a leg, they don’t have to. The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine is the ideal combination of affordability and performance, guaranteeing a great workout without all the hassles of a large, expensive machine.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine Video Review
What We Think of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine
While this unit would not be a great choice for a gym, for reasons we’ll get into, it is a great, budget-friendly model for many individuals. It is made of alloy steel, which is common for Sunny Health & Fitness products, but it weighs only 20.9 lbs, so it a much smaller unit than usual. This makes it perfect for smaller households without the space to store a large machine. There is one downside to this smaller frame, however.
This rowing machine can only support a weight of 220 lbs, so many people will be out of luck, unfortunately. There is one other problem that may arise with intense use. If you use the machine for extended periods of time, some users have reported that the piston gets quite hot and starts to damage the resistance mechanism. Not every single product will encounter this issue, but it something to keep an eye out for.
I was looking for a small workout machine to put in the spare room of my apartment. I didn’t have a lot of extra space, so I wanted a machine that could help me train my entire body and hep out my heart health. It’s a good thing I’m only 5 foot 4, because the weight capacity is pretty low. Since this model was affordable and I only needed to think about myself, it was perfect for my home.
jane o.
The hydraulic resistance mechanism provides 12 different levels of resistance, so this single machine could take you from a rowing newbie into a seasoned pro. The foot plates pivot for comfort and safety, and they have straps as well for extra security. The monitor is fairly simple but will provide all of the most essential stats of your workout: time, count, total count, calories burned, and a progress report.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 23” x 20” x 54”
- Weight: 20.9 lbs
- Material: Alloy steel
- Resistance Mechanism: Hydraulic
- Levels of Resistance: 12
- Weight Capacity: 220 lbs
- Warranty: None
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Foot plates pivot and have straps
- Monitor can display time, count, total count, calories burned, and can scan
- Can be stored upright
- Does not require a lot of floor space
Cons
- Warranty coverage only applies in the USA
- Low weight limit
- Piston can get hot with use which may damage the resistance mechanism
Our Final Opinion About the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine is a model designed for affordability and space efficiency. While it doesn’t have the longevity of other products, or the inclusiveness of a high weight capacity, it is still a great choice for lighter individuals craving an intense, full-body workout.
Alternative Products to Consider
Oxford 6 Rower Review
The Quiet Pick
Oxford 6
If you live in an apartment or with many other people, you may like the Oxford 6 Rower for its quiet design. In addition to being quiet, this model is highly comfortable and a definite level up from the Oxford 3 Rower.
See price
on Horizon Fitness Canada
What We Think of the Oxford 6 Rower
Many rowing machines are too loud to the point that they disrupt roommates and neighbors. To ensure that everyone around you can enjoy peace and quiet while you are working out, the Oxford 6 Rower is designed with quiet features.
What makes this design so quiet is that it uses magnetic resistance and a high strength nylon drive belt. These two parts together create a quiet rowing experience that many other rowers can’t match. This model is quiet enough for apartments and shared households.
In addition to its quiet design, the Oxford 6 Rower is much more impressive than the Oxford 3. For only a couple hundred dollars more, this model comes with twice as many resistance levels and many preset workouts. These numerous differences make the Oxford 6 Rower much more notable than the previous model.
Something else we love about this rower is that it is comfortable for many rowers. Even taller individuals will enjoy this model because it comes with a slight extension in the main rail. This will make the machine more comfortable for taller individuals, not just short ones.
There are several great qualities about the Oxford 6 Rower, but there are some negatives too. Most importantly, the console system is very basic and is not much of an improvement from the Oxford 3. Because of how much tech is out there, we wished that this model came with more updates.
Pretty good device. It’s definitely better than the Oxford 3, but I wish the console was updated more.
justin m.
Additionally, the rower is a bit expensive for what it offers. Since it doesn’t come with many tech features, it should be a bit more affordable than what it is. At least the model comes with a 3 year warranty, making it one of the best warranties on this list.
Because the Oxford 6 Rower is so quiet and comes with notable upgrades from the Oxford 3, the Oxford 6 Rower is a good choice, especially for individuals that live in apartments or shared households. As long as you don’t mind a slightly basic console, you’ll be happy with this device.
Oxford 6 Rower Specifications
- Brand: Horizon Fitness
- Dimensions: 80.7″ x 24.5″ x 43″
- Weight: Not listed
- Material: Aluminum
- Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
- Levels of Resistance: 20
- Weight Capacity: 350 lbs.
Oxford 6 Rower Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Extremely quiet
- Upgrade from the Oxford 3 Rower
- Suitable for tall rowers
- 3 year warranty
Cons
- Basic console
- A bit expensive for what it offers
Our Final Opinion About the Oxford 6 Rower
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Price:4.4]
The Oxford 6 Rower is a great product if you’re most concerned about the noise level from the rower. Even though it is a bit expensive and comes with a basic console, the overall experience is positive for most users.
See price
on Horizon Fitness Canada
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 Review
The Smart Pick
Concept
Some rowing machines are very basic in their technologic add-ins, but others are built for tech-savvy individuals with a thirst for knowledge. The Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 is a rowing machine designed to be smart and communicate well, without compromising on actual rowing performance.
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 Video Review
What We Think of the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5
If you’re looking for a rowing machine that has it all, this Concept2 Model D is the ideal choice. The Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) integrated into this rowing machine provides information such as meters travelled, pace, watts, and calories burned. Plus, it has preset workout programs to enhance your training sessions. This unit also has Bluetooth connectivity to connect to your phone. With the built in smartphone holder, you can have your device close but out of the way.
While this 57.3 lb aluminum rowing machine takes up a significant amount of space, it can be easily taken apart into two pieces to make storage and transport a whole lot easier. With an air resistance mechanism, this rowing machine is quiet and quite versatile with 10 different resistance levels. This ensures that every individual can make use of this machine no matter their experience level.
Before stumbling on this product, I had never heard of this company before. That’s a shame because this is one of the best products I’ve ever used. The weight capacity could handle two of me at once, which makes me feel very safe, and I really enjoy how smart and connected the display is. It helps me stay motivated and engaged in working out, which I really need.
diana e.
The weight capacity is truly impressive. While most rowing machines will top out around three hundred pounds, this model can safely support up to five hundred. No matter your physical condition, this Concept2 rowing machine can be their answer to your fitness goals. With a five-year warranty on the frame and a two-year warranty on the PM5 and all moving parts, the expensive price doesn’t seem so daunting.
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 Specifications
- Dimensions: 96” x 24” x 14”
- Weight: 57.3 lbs
- Material: Aluminum
- Resistance Mechanism: Air
- Levels of Resistance: 10
- Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
- Warranty: 5 years on frame, 2 years on monitor and moving parts
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Easily separates into two pieces for storage
- Performance Monitor 5 displays info such as meters, pace, watts, and calories
- Preset programs built in
- Has a smartphone cradle and Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- Very expensive
Our Final Opinion About the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 is the best choice for individuals looking for a training assistant in their machine. With an intelligent monitor and great connectivity, you’ll feel spoiled and prepared to handle everything that rowing training has to offer.
Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine Review
The Compact Pick
Stamina
If you live in a lower square-footage home or you simply enjoy being efficient with your space, a compact rowing machine is a must have. The Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine can help you train your entire body with a small floor footprint and a great user experience.
Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine Video Review
What We Think of The Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine
Many people don’t have the room for a large rowing machine, and that’s why we are so appreciative of this Stamina model. It is incredibly compact and weighs only 37 lbs, so it is manageable for a single person to put it together and move it around their space. Plus, it doesn’t require a large footprint, so it can be stored in a smaller room without a problem. Its aluminum and steel construction guarantee stability and durability for many years of use.
This model uses a hydraulic resistance mechanism, but instead of preset resistance levels, you have full control over the resistance with a variable adjustment knob. This allows you to train at exactly your level, without pushing yourself too quickly. This compact unit has a weight capacity of 250 lbs, so while it isn’t quite up to the standard for these products, it is quite respectable for its size. Plus, you’ll get a one-year warranty coverage on the frame in case it gets damaged.
One thing I want to point out right away is that while most of this machine feels really great, I wouldn’t be surprised if the foot braces are the first things to go. If you can deal with this potential issue later on, this machine is a great option. The variable resistance really lets you customize your workout each time, and monitor is really simple to work with and provides all of the most important information about your training.
hannah m.
This rowing machine has a monitor to keep track of some workout stats such as time, stroke count, and calories burned. While it is a pretty basic model, it still provides all of the essential information people like to know. The textured foot plates, combined with the adjustable straps, help increase your feeling of security while using the machine. The foot braces aren’t the most durable, but they should hold up well to conscientious use.
Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 58.3” x 11” x 11.4”
- Weight: 37 lbs
- Material: Aluminum and steel
- Resistance Mechanism: Hydraulic
- Levels of Resistance: Variable
- Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
- Warranty: 1 year on frame
Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Monitor tracks workout time, stroke count, and calories burned
- Folds for easier storage
- Has textured foot plates and adjustable straps
- Seat and handles are padded for extra comfort
Cons
- Foot braces are not very durable
Our Final Opinion About the Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine is a model best suited to smaller spaces. With its compact size and simple design, it is an ideal fit for easy-going people looking for an easy-to-use machine without a lot of bells and whistles.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine Review
The Beginner-Friendly Pick
Sunny Health & Fitness
Some rowing machines can be pretty complicated and offer intense workouts, but those are built with experienced rowers in mind. If you’re more of a beginner and are looking for a high quality machine that will help get you started, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine is the right fit.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine Video Review
What We Think of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine
This magnetic rowing machine by Sunny Health & Fitness is a model designed for the beginner. It has a below-average weight capacity of 250 lbs, so it won’t suit every newbie out there, but it is fairly inclusive. This machine is designed with user comfort in mind, and it will require very little maintenance, perfect for people new to rowing. It weighs nearly 50 lbs and is a standard size, but it will fold easily to make storage more convenient.
The aluminum and steel construction makes this unit highly durable and safe to use. The magnetic resistance ensures a high quality, reliable trainer, and with 16 levels of resistance, you can adapt your workouts to your experience and muscle gain as you go. The big thing to note here is that there isn’t a very noticeable difference between each level. As a result, this machine won’t be useful forever if you have high-level goals. That’s why it isn’t a great choice for experienced rowers or fitness enthusiasts.
As a beginner rower with little workout experience prior to this machine, I think it is designed to be pretty much perfect. However, my boyfriend has been working out for a few years, and even the strongest resistance setting doesn’t challenge him much. Although I won’t be able to use this rowing machine for my whole career, I am very impressed with its beginner-friendly resistance and comfort.
jeanine r.
The included monitor is pretty well rounded, as it displays time, speed, count, total count, count per minute, and calories burned. The machine is designed with a device holder and a bottle holder, so you have all the convenience you could ask for as well. We highly, highly recommend this product for people interested in a low-intensity but effective workout to start training their body and improving health.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 22.5” x 23” x 77”
- Weight: 49.6 lbs
- Material: Aluminum and steel
- Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
- Levels of Resistance: 16
- Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Monitor displays time, speed, count, calories burned, total count and count per minute
- Folds for better storage
- Requires very little maintenance and is designed for comfort
- Has a bottle holder and device holder
Cons
Cons
- Resistance is not as noticeable as on other machines (not great for experienced rowers)
Our Final Opinion About the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine is a model designed to fit into any environment and any user level. If you are a beginner, this is the best choice, because the resistance levels are not as extreme as on other models. This is a detriment for experienced rowers, but perfect for newbies.
Mr. Rudolf Water Rowing Machine Review
The Authentic Pick
Mr. Rudolf
While all rowing machines are designed to work your body like you are actually in a boat, not every model achieves that goal with the elegance and authenticity of the Mr. Rudolf Water Rowing Machine. If you want a great aesthetic and a great workout, this is hands down the best model to meet both needs.
Mr. Rudolf Water Rowing Machine Video Review
What We Think of The Mr. Rudolf Water Rowing Machine
Honestly, we are a little bit in love with this rowing machine. It is a completely, flawlessly unique piece of equipment that provides a true, authentic rowing experience from the comfort of your own home. It is made of a beautiful oak and uses water as its resistance mechanism, so even the resistance you experience is as natural as possible and highly comparable to actually rowing, in a boat, on water.
This large machine has a weight capacity of 320 lbs, so it is incredibly inclusive of people with various builds and fitness levels. Since it uses water as its resistance mechanism, you have full control over the level of resistance you experience. This variable system allows you to tailor your training to your comfort level and prevents you from overreaching and potentially injuring yourself in the process.
I spend a lot of time at my cabin in the warmer months, and I wanted to buy a second rowing machine for that location as well, since it is basically my second home. Now that I’ve been using this machine for a couple of months, I wish I had one of these at home as well instead of my magnetic one. This natural looking machine blends in perfectly with scenery around the cabin and it is easy to store when I’m not using it.
mitchell g.
The monitor is Bluetooth compatible and will display information such as your time, distance, 500 meter split time, strokes per minute, calories per hour, and watts. Plus, it will easily store in an upright position to open up your floor space when you aren’t using it. For comfort and security, the foot plates come with straps and are height adjustable. With the beautiful aesthetic and great performance, you’ll understand why this model is a bit more expensive than is typical for these products.
Mr. Rudolf Water Rowing Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 82” x 20” x 22”
- Weight: 58.5 lbs
- Material: Wood
- Resistance Mechanism: Water
- Levels of Resistance: Variable
- Weight Capacity: 320 lbs
Mr. Rudolf Water Rowing Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Beautiful aesthetic
- Monitor is Bluetooth compatible and displays time, distance, 500M split time, strokes per minute, calories per hour, and watts
- Easily stores upright
- Foot plates are height adjustable and have straps
Cons
Cons
- Fairly pricey
Our Final Opinion About the Mr. Rudolf Water Rowing Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Mr. Rudolf Water Rowing Machine is the best choice for people wanting to engage in an authentic rowing experience. With a water resistance mechanism and the best true-to-boat design out there, you will be amazed at the places this rowing machine can take you. In your mind, at least.
Sunny Health & Fitness RW5713 Obsidian Surge 500 Water Rowing Machine Review
The High Performance Pick
Sunny Health & Fitness
Water resistance is the most authentic rowing experience, and when it is combined with a highly durable frame, impressive tracking abilities, and extreme comfort, you are left with the flawless product that is the Sunny Health & Fitness RW5713 Obsidian Surge 500 Water Rowing Machine.
Sunny Health & Fitness RW5713 Obsidian Surge 500 Water Rowing Machine Video Review
What We Think of The Sunny Health & Fitness RW5713 Obsidian Surge 500 Water Rowing Machine
This Obsidian Surge 500 is a rowing machine with a lot of exciting features. Its 92 lb alloy steel build will require a lot of floor space, so you should make sure that you have the storage room before purchasing. However, that is really the only thing that should make you hesitate about this purchase. With a water-based resistance mechanism and the ability to cater the intensity of every rowing session to your skill level and health on a given day, this rowing machine is a perfect fit for every household.
With a weight capacity of 300 lbs, this rowing machine should be able to support most individuals interested in using it. The seat is large and quite comfortable, so even people at the top of the weight range will find that it is an enjoyable rowing experience. Plus, with the comfortable and sweat-resistant handlebars, even the most intense workout can be performed with the confidence that they machine can support your efforts easily.
My old gym had a rowing machine that I absolutely loved, but when I moved I lost the opportunity to use it. This model offers me the same workout, and even though I had to spend a lot of money to get it, I don’t regret it. Using water as the source of the resistance really makes me feel like I’m in a boat moving through water, and I don’t even miss the old machine I used at the gym anymore.
kacey l.
The fitness meter is one of our favorite parts of this rowing machine. It tracks your total time, 500 meter time, strokes per minute, total strokes, calories burned, ambient temperature, and more! If you’ve ever wanted a comprehensive progress report from your workout machine, this is the one for the job. This model can be stored upright when not in use, but don’t forget about that large floor space requirement.
Sunny Health & Fitness RW5713 Obsidian Surge 500 Water Rowing Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 34” x 22” x 80”
- Weight: 91.9 lbs
- Material: Alloy steel
- Resistance Mechanism: Water
- Levels of Resistance: Variable
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Warranty: None
Sunny Health & Fitness RW5713 Obsidian Surge 500 Water Rowing Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Has comfortable, sweat-resistant handlebars
- Fitness meter tracks total time, 500 M time, SPM, total strokes, calories, ambient temperature, and more
- Can be stored upright when not in use
- Seat is large and comfortable
Cons
Cons
- Warranty coverage only applies in the USA
- Quite large, requires a lot of floor space
Our Final Opinion About the Sunny Health & Fitness RW5713 Obsidian Surge 500 Water Rowing Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 3.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
All in all, the Sunny Health & Fitness RW5713 Obsidian Surge 500 Water Rowing Machine is the most advanced rowing machine currently available. It is an industry leader with outstanding fitness tracking capabilities, a highly durable and well built frame, and the most authentic resistance mechanism you can find.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying a Rowing Machine
Benefits of Using a Rowing Machine
Rowing machines are one of the best ways to exercise. Whether you are young or old, a workout newbie or a pro, they can provide one of the best challenges to your body. Rowing machines are beneficial for two main reasons.
First, they target all of the major muscle groups in your body. That’s right, all of them. Since you are engaging your arms, core, back, and legs during rowing, you can effectively train cardio and resistance simultaneously.
If you are looking for an effective full body workout, a rowing machine is the perfect solution.
The second biggest draw of rowing machines is their low impact operation.
Rowing is one of the best exercises for resistance training and endurance training, but it doesn’t put the same pressure on your joints that weightlifting and running do. As a result, it is a workout that is safe for everybody, no matter your experience or physicality.
Rowing machines can also be surprisingly affordable if you don’t get one that is incredibly sophisticated, so they can be affordable for every income level.
How to Properly Choose Your Rowing Machine
- Price.
You can expect to pay anywhere from $160 to $1400 for a rowing machine. We know what you’re thinking; why is there such a difference between different models?
The cheaper end of the spectrum is home to rowing machines that have a lower weight capacity, fewer resistance levels, and a lower quality build overall. While they are still great for beginners, they will likely not be up to professional standards. More expensive models will have better builds, better resistance mechanisms, and a more comfortable design.
- Size.
Since most people are buying rowing machines for use at home, the overall size of the machine will likely be a significant factor during the decision making process.
Not every house will be able to accommodate the large square footage needed for large machines, so those individuals will need to look for compact models that still offer them all of the settings they need.
Some models will be only the length of a person, and others will be much larger. Luckily, many models will fold to make them just a little bit less intrusive when not in use.
- Extra Features.
Some rowing machines will include extra features like bottle holders and device holders. These extras can help keep you hydrated during your exercise, and can keep you engaged in your activity in whatever way is best for you.
Whether you like to blast the music, watch a show, catch up on a podcast, or follow along with a training video, the device holder can make it a lot easier for you to do those things.
Not every rowing machine will have special features, but they are definitely something to keep an eye out for.
- Weight Limit.
As with all exercise equipment that you put your body weight on, there is going to be a weight restriction. However, for the most part, rowing machines are highly inclusiveness with weight limits around 300 lbs.
Some will go up as high as 500 lbs, but these are rare and often very expensive. Other models will be built smaller and will have a weight limit to match, somewhere between 220 lbs and 250 lbs.
Since adhering to these weight capacities is essential for your safety, make sure you pay attention to this when shopping around for a rowing machine.
- Comfort.
Since we expect you to spend quite a bit of time on an exercise machine you buy for your home, you’ll want it to be comfortable. For this, you’ll have to consider the seat and handlebar characteristics. You’ll want enough padding in the handlebars to maintain a slightly relaxed grip, preventing aches and seizing of your hands. Similarly, you should look for a rowing machine that has a large, well-padded seat that is still supportive and allows the range of motion a rowing machine will demand.
- Resistance Mechanism.
There are many different kinds of resistance mechanisms that rowing machines can use. Water resistance will offer you the most natural feel of rowing a boat in actual water, and they are fairly quiet as well. Air resistance is similar to water, but you will be essentially powering a fan with your rowing rather than dragging blades through water.
Hydraulic resistance is a more mechanical form of resistance and will be the loudest. It is usually built into less expensive models and may not provide the level of resistance that an experienced rower can grow with.
Lastly, there is magnetic resistance, which is one of the most popular mechanisms in use today.
It can be found in both affordable and expensive models, and it does a great job of training your whole body no matter your experience or fitness level.
- Number of Resistance Settings.
The number of resistance settings (and their effectiveness) will impact how far you can take your training with a single machine. Keep in mind that you can only manually adjust the resistance on air, hydraulic and magnetic machines; water resistance can be adjusted based on the strength and speed of each pull.
Some hydraulic machines will also be variable instead of having preset levels.
Clearly, there is a lot of diversity here. Some rowing machines can have as many as 16 different settings, others only a few.
Also, some levels will seem very similar, whereas there will be noticeable differences in other models. It’s up to you to evaluate where you’re at and decide on the resistance settings that will be ideal for your training.
- Display Characteristics.
Since monitoring your status during exercise is a great way to track progress and stay informed of your health, the display characteristics should be a consideration when choosing your rowing machine.
Some displays will be quite basic, and will only display standard info like your time, calories burned, and stroke count. Other models will have more technology built in, and can offer you training programs, remember previous workouts to notify you of progress, and even track your distance and race-length times.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of rowing machines allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
