The best rowing machine for your home gym

Rowing is a great way to lose weight and build muscle, while also taking it easy on your joints and back.

Yet, with so much choice out there, it may seem difficult to work out which type of rowing machine you should get.

Resistance is a key thing to consider. Cheaper machines tend to have hydraulic resistance, while higher quality rowing machines will usually have air or magnetic resistance systems.

Going even higher end, water resistance machines are typically the most expensive, as they’re designed to mimic the experience of being out on the water.

Whatever you’re after, and whether you’re a rookie rower or seasoned pro, we’ve picked out five of the best indoor rowing machines on the market at the moment.

Compare home rowing machines

Best home rowing machines

Whether you’re setting sail on your fitness journey, or you’ve been on the open seas for a while, here’s a detailed look at four of our favourite rowing machines.

Concept2 Model D Indoor Rower with PM5 Monitor

Billed as the best-selling indoor rowing machine in the world, this quality rower ticks all the boxes.

Concept2 rowers are consistently great value for money, and a go-to rowing machine for many big-name gyms. Its flywheel design minimises noise and provides a smooth rowing experience. You can see how you’re performing too, as the PM5 monitor shows you key data, such as distance or time and splits. For anyone with limited living space, this rower from Concept2 easily separates into two pieces for storage.

Perks:

• For all skills levels
• Smooth and quiet row
• Ideal for small living spaces

Where to buy:

• Amazon
• Argos

JLL R200 Luxury Home Rowing Machine

This is one of the best mid-range rowers out there.

This machine is a sturdy and robust rower that doesn’t break the bank. With 10 magnetic resistance levels, this machine is ideal for beginners or intermediate users alike. What’s more, it’s smooth, quiet and folds away. So this machine is ideal for anyone looking for a serious rowing machine that doesn’t take up the whole living room.

Perks:

• 10 resistance levels
• Magnetic resistance
• LCD screen shows workout stats

Where to buy:

• Amazon

Opti Gym and Elastic Cord Rowing Machine with DVD

Save space and money with this impressive rowing machine.

This manual rower is well suited to beginners looking for a solid and affordable machine. Live in a small flat? Never fear. This rowing machine folds away and can be stored easily, with transportation wheels making your life a bit easier. You can monitor your time, count, total count and calories too.

Perks:

• Elastic cord resistance system
• Folds for storage
• Workout data on screen

Where to buy:

• Argos

FluidRower Apollo Pro II Commercial Fluid Rower

Feel like you’re out on the water with this high-powered water rower.

First things first, this rower looks the part. Made from American ash and wrapped around a steel casing, it’s a stylish and incredibly durable rower. As a commercial grade machine, it acts the part too. With adjustable resistance levels and twin tank technology, you can push yourself to the limit and feel like you’re on the water while you’re at it.

Perks:

• Water resistance rower
• Four resistance levels
• Smooth and quiet

Where to buy:

• Fitness Superstore

Frequently asked questions

• Are rowing machines good for weight loss?

  If balanced with a healthy diet, then yes. They offer an intense cardio workout, and because they’re low impact, they’re kinder to your back and joints than a treadmill.

• Can rowing machines cause back pain?

  When used with the wrong technique, then potentially yes. So make sure you find out the proper motion before overexerting yourself.

• Will rowing machines build muscle?

  It depends on the type of machine and the form of resistance. Lower-level hydraulic rowing machines probably won’t help you build muscle.

  But magnetic, electronic, air and water rowing machines could help you build muscle.

• Which rowing machines are the quietest?

  Once again, it depends on the type and the make of the rowing machine.

  Typically, air resistance machines tend to generate the most noise. By contrast, magnetic rowers are becoming increasingly popular because they offer high levels of resistance while keeping noise levels down.

• Rowing machine versus treadmill. Which is better?

  There’s no exact science to this. Treadmills may well burn more calories – if you exercise for the same amount of time to a similar intensity.

  So treadmills may be better for pure cardio.

  Yet, rowing machines work your whole body. So they help you build strength while also burning calories.

  What’s more, rowing machines are low-impact, so they’re better for your back and joints.

Want to stay in shape without ruining your budget? Check out our top fitness and wellbeing discount codes and deals!

Code Black Friday!

Black Friday: Extra 10% off!

Verified 5 days ago Expires 28 Nov 2022

Shop Go Outdoors this Black Friday and get an extra 10% off the discount card price! T&Cs apply.

Show code

Code Sneakers!

Up to 50% off street styles

Verified 4 days ago

Shop at ASOS now to save up to 50% off Sneaker Brands from big brands like adidas, Nike, Under Armour, Puma, Vans and more! T&Cs apply.

Show code

Deal

Extra 20% off activewear!

Verified 4 days ago

Looking for new sport clothes? Now at ASOS you can shop with a 20% discount on trainers, hoodies and more from big brands like Nike, Adidas, Puma, HIIT or Under Armour. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal Stay active!

Dumbbells and wrist weights from £10

Shop dumbbells and adjustable wrist or ankle weights at John Lewis with prices starting at just £10! T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal Prime day!

Prime Day: up to 60% off books, personal care, tech and more!

Grab yourself one of Amazon products for up to 60% off today. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal Stay active!

Work hard at home with Argos

Everything you need to train at home and in the gym. Whether cardio's on the cards, you're on a muscle-building mission or just looking to begin some basic exercise, find all the kit you'll need! T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal Popular

Folding treadmills from just £99!

Get a compact folding treadmill perfect for any space from Argos! T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal Exercise Bikes!

Exercise bikes from £79.99

Stay active in the comfort of your own home with home gym equipment from just £79.99 at Argos! T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Code Free delivery!

Free shipping on orders over £50

Who doesn't love free delivery? Shop at Under Armour now and get your order delivered straight to your door for free. T&Cs apply.

Show code

Deal

Sale up to 50% off

Shop guilt-free with up to 50% off in the Millets' sale. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Code

Free £5 voucher!

Select the click and collect delivery option for your order of £100 or more, and when you go into a store to pick it up you will receive a free £5 voucher! T&Cs apply.

Show code

Deal

Running sale: get up to 70% off!

Whether you're a serious runner or an occasional jogger. Find hundreds of products with huge discounts. Shop running shoes, t-shirts, shorts and more from top brands! T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal

Up to 50% off Training Clothing products

Wherever your workout routine takes you, equip yourself with the ultimate must-haves here at Sports Direct and save up to 50% off Training Clothing now! T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Code Students!

10% student discount

Calling all students! Get a 10% discount at Sports Direct. T&Cs apply.

Show code

Code

Extra 10% off discounted clothing

Cycling clothing offers a great on-the-bike fit to keep you comfortable as you ride. Shop now! T&Cs apply.

Show code

Deal Huge!

Clearance with up to 50% off

Discover a huge range of products in the clearance sale! Bikes, components, accessories, clothes, all up to 50% off! Hurry, these deals won't be around for long! T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Code Free delivery

Free UK delivery on all orders at Tredz

Who doesn't love free delivery? At Tredz all orders over £20 qualify for free UK standard delivery! T&Cs apply

Show code

Deal

Up to 20% off fitness equipment Bands, weights & more

Take advantage of eBay's up to 20% off fitness equipment Bands offer now! T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal Electric bikes!

Shop electric bikes at Ribble now!

Check out Ribble's new electric bike range and get a little help up those big hills. Shop now! T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal

Decide the design of your new bike!

Custom Colour Program - with more customisation options than ever before. Ribble will create the bike, you decide the design. Be bold and bright, or stealthy as you like. Your bike, your way. T&Cs apply

Get deal

Code Free delivery!

Free standard shipping on orders over £50

Who doesn't love free delivery? Shop at ASICS now and get your whole order delivered for free when you spend £50 or more! T&Cs apply.

Show code

Deal

Up to 70% off in the sale!

Get up to 70% off in the Mountain Warehouse sale this season. Enjoy discounts on loads of products and get the latest styles for less. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal

Shop high quality fitness equipment at NordicTrack

Shop treadmills, exercise bikes, ellipticals and more at NordicTrack now. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Code New Customers

£10 off £50 for new customers

Spend £50 or more as a new customer at Chain Reaction and get £10 off with this discount code. T&Cs apply.

Show code

Code Free delivery!

Free delivery on orders over £50

Take the stress out of shopping and have your items delivered to you for free when you spend over £50 at All Outdoor! T&Cs apply.

Show code

Deal

Up to 40% off in the Reebok outlet

Shop the Reebok outlet and get up to 40% off tons of great styles. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal Sale!

Great deals in the Best Gym Equipment's sale

Shop the Best Gym Equipment sale now and get tons of equipment to help you keep those resolutions for less! Prices start at £13.50. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Code Free delivery!

Free delivery on orders over £99

Who doesn't love free delivery? Spend £99 or more at Best Gym Equipment and get your order delivered for free! T&Cs apply.

Show code

Deal Pay later!

Shop now, pay later with Klarna

Short on cash? Don't worry about it! At Best Gym Equipment you can pay later in 3 equal payments. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal Sale!

Up to 50% off in the American Golf sale

Shop the American Golf sale now and get up to 50% off tons of great golf brands! T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Code Free delivery!

Free delivery when you spend £50

Get your American Gold order delivered for free when you spend £50 or more! T&Cs apply.

Show code

Deal

Up to 50% off bikes on sale

Shop Rutland Cycle's sale now and get up to 50% off bikes! T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal

20% off your first order

Sign up to the Lorna Jane newsletter to receive your unique 20% off discount code to apply to your first order. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal

Free delivery on orders over £30

Get free UK delivery on your Gamola Golf orders when you spend over £30. Spend and save today. T&C's apply

Get deal

Deal Activewear!

Score great deals on boohoo gym gear

Verified 2 days ago

Get fit in style and get the best deals on gym gear from boohoo! Getting fit doesn't need to break the bank. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal Activewear sale!

Raise your game with ASOS activewear sale!

Verified 4 days ago

Find your new gym staples at ASOS. Explore bold, printed pieces, or browse the range of super-soft leggings and seamless sports bras, ideal for days off. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal Activewear!

Athleisure and Gym Clothes range!

Explore a drop of kickass sportswear and athleisure features detailed contour seaming, sports cuts, and oversized proportions to work up a sweat in. With prices starting from as little as £4. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal Popular!

Shop Athleisure from £12

Ultimate combination of comfort and cool, the new-in athleisure wear is perfect for yoga, brunch and beyond. Discover the workout kit that looks as good in the yoga studio and on a lunch date. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal

Up to 20% off home & pet products from Amazon brands

Find all the essentials for your home and pets in the Amazon sale. Save up to 20% off stylish and comfortable items for the bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and garden. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Deal

Amazon Warehouse: Great deals on quality used products

If you're looking for electronics, clothes or even books but short on funds, Amazon Warehouse will have you covered with loads of quality used products at amazing prices. T&Cs apply.

Get deal

Popular Reads

Phizz review: Get your vitamins and super hydration in one delicious go

{"menuItems":[{"label":"Today's Sportswear Coupon Codes & Sales","anchorName":"#today-s-sportswear-coupon-codes-sales"}]}

Find out everything you need to know about Phizz, the delicious effervescent 2-in-1 multivitamins and hydrating tablets.

Read more…

Where to buy protein powder online in the UK

{"menuItems":[{"label":"Today's Sportswear Coupon Codes & Sales","anchorName":"#today-s-sportswear-coupon-codes-sales"}]}

Are you on the hunt for protein powder? Our wellbeing experts are on hand to help you find the best in the business.

Read more…

Coronavirus: Public in England told to cover face on transport and in shops

{"menuItems":[{"label":"Today's Sportswear Coupon Codes & Sales","anchorName":"#today-s-sportswear-coupon-codes-sales"}]}

UK government issues advice to wear a mask when shopping or travelling, as lockdown eases.

Read more…

Working from home coronavirus guide: Equipment, software and tips

{"menuItems":[{"label":"Today's Sportswear Coupon Codes & Sales","anchorName":"#today-s-sportswear-coupon-codes-sales"}]}

Coronavirus has seen many more of us working from home. Our guides and reviews help businesses and individuals WFH better.

Read more…

Where to buy rowing machines online

{"menuItems":[{"label":"Today's Sportswear Coupon Codes & Sales","anchorName":"#today-s-sportswear-coupon-codes-sales"}]}

Keep fit at home with a rowing machine from one of these key online stores.

Read more…

All the home gym equipment you need for under £30

{"menuItems":[{"label":"Today's Sportswear Coupon Codes & Sales","anchorName":"#today-s-sportswear-coupon-codes-sales"}]}

Want to get your workouts done in the comfort of your own home? Find everything you need to get a sweat on, at great prices.

Read more…

Our favourite 2020 activewear

{"menuItems":[{"label":"Today's Sportswear Coupon Codes & Sales","anchorName":"#today-s-sportswear-coupon-codes-sales"}]}

Want to look hot in the gym this year? We’ve got all the inspiration you need for a new activewear wardrobe.

Read more…

How to choose the best gym clothes for your sport

{"menuItems":[{"label":"Today's Sportswear Coupon Codes & Sales","anchorName":"#today-s-sportswear-coupon-codes-sales"}]}

Whether you’re covering miles on the treadmill or de-stressing in the boxing ring, we’ll help you find the perfect outfit for every sport.

Read more…

Buy N95 face masks (Including KN95 masks) online in the UK. Stock checked daily.

{"menuItems":[{"label":"Today's Sportswear Coupon Codes & Sales","anchorName":"#today-s-sportswear-coupon-codes-sales"}]}

Looking for face masks for sale? Which should you buy, a surgical mask or a FFP2, FFP3, N95, P2 respirator mask?

Read more…

Happy National Fitness Day! Celebrate in style with our favourite fitness fashion picks

{"menuItems":[{"label":"Today's Sportswear Coupon Codes & Sales","anchorName":"#today-s-sportswear-coupon-codes-sales"}]}

Get ready to get moving on National Fitness Day with our top picks for sports clothing, trainers and accessories.

Read more…