Best Water Rowing Machine of 2024 For Your Cardio Workouts

If you're looking for new fitness equipment, here are our top recommendations for the best water rowing machines in 2024, along with a guide on how to use them.

Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; we may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. You can learn more about our review process here.

Overview

Are you tired of using regular gym equipment such as the treadmill and stationary bike? Or do you simply want to switch your workout routine to something new and exciting? Well, whichever reason you have, a water rowing machine suits your fitness needs.

Hydro rowing machine is becoming more popular because it’s perfect for both beginners and fitness enthusiasts. Richard Johnson, general manager at the Pivotal Fitness location in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, states,

But the biggest difference we’re seeing is that almost every type of member—from beginners to endurance athletes—is using them now. The increased activity is due, in part, to the evolution of these machines. They feature big, user-friendly digital screens, neutral grips that make it easier to shift your grip, and more easily adjustable intensity. That overall ease of use and versatility simply appeals to a much broader range of our members.

Water rowing machines are best unique cardio equipment that helps you achieve entire-body low-impact workouts with ease. They are also not relatively cheap and can cost you a lot if marketing tricks easily sway you. Finding a best suitable rowing machine can be done, provided you keep reading. We’ve covered all that you need to know before investing your hard-earned money in the best water rowing machine.

Best Water Rowing Machines

Best Water Rowing Machine Overall:
WaterRower Walnut Rowing Machine

Best Smart Water Rowing Machine:
CityRow Max

Best Budget Water Rowing Machine:
Sunny Health and Fitness Obsidian Surge 500

Best Water Rower Under $1,000:
Mr. Captain Water Rower

Best Foldable Water Rowing Machine:
TRUNK Water Rowing Machine

Our Top Picks

#1 WaterRower Walnut Rowing Machine

Key specifications:

  • Color: Chocolate-brown with hints of gray, red, and purple
  • Special Feature: Heart rate monitor
  • Resistance Mechanism: Water
  • Product Dimensions: 82″L x 22″W x 20″H
  • Maximum Weight Recommendation: 117 Pounds
  • Frame Material: Wood
  • Item Weight: 28 Kilograms

What we love:

  • Handcrafted durability that stands the test of time.
  • Ethically sourced materials, promoting sustainability.
  • Smooth, natural water resistance that simulates real rowing.
  • Effective full-body workout, targeting 84% of muscle mass.
  • Excellent after-sales with upgradable US-based support.

What to consider:

  • Higher price due to quality craftsmanship.
  • Space requirements for the machine’s footprint.

Why we choose WaterRower Walnut Rowing Machine:

WaterRower Walnut S4 isn’t just an exercise machine; it’s a commitment to a premium workout experience. Its handcrafted elegance and enduring performance provide not just a fitness solution but an ethically sourced piece of equipment that aligns with a conscious lifestyle.

Overview

WaterRower Walnut S4 is the epitome of form meeting function. Created by a rowing expert, this machine emulates the sensation of rowing on water through its unique WaterFlywheel design, providing a smooth and even stroke.

It’s a harmonious addition to any space, thanks to its sustainably sourced, luxurious walnut wood and handcrafted build. With the ability to cater to all fitness levels, seamless resistance adjustments, and a robust warranty, the WaterRower Walnut S4 sets the bar for best home fitness equipment.

The WaterRower Walnut S4 is built to last, and crafted with a variety of high-quality materials. The machine’s frame is made from solid ash wood, ensuring stability and strength during workouts. Its water tank boasts strong polycarbonate material, able to withstand the test of time without leaking or corroding.

[READ MORE: Ergatta vs WaterRower]

#2 CITYROW Max

Key specifications:

  • Color: Natural wood and black trim
  • Special Feature: Interactive HD touchscreen
  • Resistance Mechanism: Water
  • Product Dimensions: 22″D x 85″W x 45″H
  • Maximum Weight Recommendation: 375 Pounds
  • Frame Material: Ash Wood
  • Item Weight: 75 Pounds
  • Material: Ash Wood with Aluminum Detailing
  • Power Source: Battery Powered
  • Display Type: LED HD Touchscreen

What we love:

  • Water-resistant, tech-savvy
  • 19.5″ HD touchscreen, immersive sound
  • Compact in 20 secs
  • CITYROW GO, Apple Watch compatible
  • Durable USA hardwood

What to consider:

  • CITYROW GO membership needed for full content access
  • Assembly required upon delivery

Why we choose CITYROW Max:

CITYROW GO Max Rower stands out for its perfect fusion of functionality and tech, bringing a high-end gym experience right into your living room.

Overview

With CITYROW GO Max Rower, engage in an authentic rowing experience enhanced by the natural resistance of water, which provides a full-body workout engaging 86% of your muscles. The ash wood frame and aluminum materials promise durability and style, while the innovative foldable design ensures it fits seamlessly into any home space.

The inclusion of a touchscreen elevates the rower to a digital fitness platform, offering a variety of workout options through CITYROW GO app. This rower not only transforms your fitness routine but also adapts to the evolving landscape of home exercise by providing a feature-rich, interactive, and connected workout experience.

CITYROW GO Max Rower boasts a sleek chocolate-brown design with subtle hints of gray, red, and purple, making it an eye-catching addition to any beginner home gym. But the standout feature is the heart rate monitor, which provides real-time data that can be synced with the CITYROW GO app for personalized workouts based on your fitness level.

#3 Sunny Health and Fitness Obsidian Surge 500

Key specifications:

  • Color: Black
  • Special Feature: Adjustable foot strap, sweat-resistant handlebars
  • Resistance Mechanism: Water
  • Product Dimensions: 78.9″D x 22.3″W x 32.67″H
  • Maximum Weight Recommendation: 300 Pounds
  • Metrics Measured: Total time, 500 M time, SPM, total strokes, calories, HR., ambient temperature
  • Model Name: SF-RW5713
  • Frame Material: Alloy Steel
  • Item Weight: 91.9 Pounds
  • Power Source: Battery powered, 2 AA batteries required (included)
  • Display Type: LCD

What we love:

  • Dynamic Resistance: Instant water-like rowing.
  • Sturdy Design: Durable steel performance.
  • Ergonomic Comfort: High-profile seat comfort.
  • Advanced Metrics: Detailed workout tracking.
  • Streamlined Storage: Space-efficient rower, vertical storage.

What to consider:

  • Weight Limit: 300-pound max user weight.
  • Batteries Required: 2 AA batteries are needed.

Why we choose Sunny Health and Fitness Obsidian Surge 500:

Sunny Health & Fitness is a budget rowing machine and it balances performance, user experience, and durability. The dynamic tension levels, driven by its precision-engineered hydro-blades, deliver a genuinely immersive workout, while the integration of tracking technology keeps your fitness goals on a measurable path to success.

Overview

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5713 Water Rowing Machine is not just a fitness equipment; it’s a tool for transformation. With its superior resistance mechanism that simulates real rowing, users get a rigorous cardiovascular workout.

The sleek, sturdy construction accommodates intense exercise while promising years of reliability. Furthermore, the built-in fitness technology pushes the boundaries of what a home workout machine can offer.

From tracking metrics to ensuring physical ease with its ergonomic seat and sweat-resistant handlebars, every aspect of this rower is designed for peak performance. So if you’re looking for a rowing machine that will take your fitness journey to the next level, look no further than the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5713.

#4 Mr. Captain Water Rower

Key specifications:

  • Weight Capacity: Supports up to 320 lbs.
  • Construction: Walnut Wood
  • Dimensions: 84″ D x 20″ W x 22″ H
  • Resistance: Water-based, offering natural adaptive resistance
  • Metrics Tracked: Time, stroke rate, distance, calories burned, heart rate, and more
  • Display: Clear LCD panel
  • Portability: Built-in transport wheels

What we love:

  • Engages total body workout
  • Realistic rowing experience with water resistance
  • Durable alloy steel frame construction
  • Advanced LCD for tracking workout metrics
  • Ergonomic design for comfort and performance

What to consider:

  • Requires space for storage
  • Limited to battery power

Why we choose Mr. Captain Water Rower:

We recognize Mr. Captain Water Rower as a leading rowing machine for its ability to offer a natural, dynamic rowing stroke with its water resistance mechanism. Its versatility in intensity, simply regulated by the rower’s pace, meets the fitness needs of both beginners and seasoned athletes.

Overview

Mr. Captain Water Rower stands out for its high-quality design and performance, simulating the feel of open water rowing while ensuring a potent cardiovascular workout. This machine’s water-resistance technology scales smoothly with effort, offering a whisper-quiet operation that’s welcome in any home environment.

Users can easily monitor their progress with the sophisticated onboard LCD, ensuring that each row is as efficient as the last. Developed for longevity and ease of use, this rower welcomes users to a fitness experience that is not only effective but reassuringly steadfast.

According to fitness experts, Mr. Captain Water Rower is the perfect blend of durability and ergonomic design, making it a top choice for users looking for an efficient yet comfortable at home full body strength workout. Its impressive build quality ensures stability during intense workouts, while its advanced LCD provides accurate tracking of metrics such as time, distance, and calories burned.

#5 TRUNK Water Rowing Machine

Key specifications:

  • Weight Capacity: Up to 330 lbs.
  • Materials: Red Oak Frame, Polycarbonate Water Tank
  • Dimensions: 84″ L x 22″ W x 20″ H
  • Resistance: Water-based for a natural and smooth rowing experience
  • Display: Large LCD for monitoring performance metrics
  • Portability: Easy fold design with transport wheels for convenience

What we love:

  • Ergonomic Design: Tailored for comfort
  • Foldable and Portable: Features 180° easy fold
  • Black Translucent Water Tank
  • High-Quality LCD Display
  • Crafted from Red Oak: Combines durability

What to consider:

  • Battery-Powered Display: Requires 2 AA batteries
  • Advanced Assembly

Why we choose TRUNK Water Rowing Machine:

TRUNK US-TR002RM excels in a competitive industry with its top-notch build quality and innovative design. More than just a workout machine, it’s a pledge to a healthier lifestyle. Featuring an ergonomic design, a practical foldable frame, and a clear water tank for resistance, it ensures an efficient and engaging workout.

Overview

TRUNK US-TR002RM Water Rowing Machine is expertly crafted from sturdy red oak, ensuring durability while adding a touch of elegance to any room. Its foldable design doesn’t just save space. It transforms the machine into a piece of functional fitness furniture.

The ergonomic considerations extend throughout its design, ensuring every row is comfortable, effective, and accurately monitored via a sizable LCD. This machine is ideal for those who value precision in their fitness routine, offering a detailed overview of performance metrics to keep users informed and motivated.

Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or someone just starting on their fitness journey, TRUNK US-TR002RM accommodates all levels of fitness with its adjustable features and intuitive operation, ensuring a workout that’s as challenging or as gentle as needed.

Why You Need The Best Water-Rowing Machine

You need the best waterrower machine because it has several benefits, as listed below:

Best For Cardio And Building Resistance

A water rower helps you perform aerobic and cardio workouts, improving your resistance and elevating your cardiovascular health. The rowing motion is ideal for heart health and builds strength and resistance.

Dr. Aaron Baggish, a professor of medicine at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland and the director of the Cardiovascular Performance Program at Massachusetts General Hospital, says rowing exercises challenge the heart, saying,

What’s unique about it is that it combines the two fundamental stresses that the heart responds to, which are pressure and volume,

Low Impact Full Body Workouts

Working out on a hydro rowing machine is a form of low-impact, full-body workout that doesn’t put much strain on your muscles and joints. It helps you get to keep your body active without much stress, enhances muscle strength, and improves joint health.

Randa Alami, NASM-certified personal trainer, and corrective exercise specialist, says,

Best low-impact exercise is a great way to take care of your body, especially after an injury, because we rarely ever want to stop moving completely”, she adds. The goal is to keep moving without exacerbating pain or tissue damage.

Therefore, water rowing machine workouts can be ideal for individuals in a recovery phase or those new in the fitness journey and want to start slow as they build their way up to experienced fitness enthusiasts.

Variety Of Workouts

You can perform various workouts with the waterrower machine. You can do warm-up exercises, aerobics, cardio, and final wrap-ups after your workout sessions. If you’re lucky and have modern models, you can access various workout programs on your app and never have to have dull, repeated workouts.

Easy To Use And Time-Saving

Waterrower rowing machine is simple and easy to use. They are beginner-friendly, and anyone can use them because they don’t have complicated features. Due to their simplicity, the water-rower machines are effective, time-saving, and fun to use.

The effort required to row prevents you from slacking during your workout, allowing you to get impressive results from rowing for a short time,” says John Gardner, a NASM-certified personal trainer and the CEO and Co-Founder behind Kickoff, a remote personal training platform. “In fact, just 30 minutes of [steady-state] rowing will burn 300 calories depending on your weight and intensity, he adds.

Safe

There’s minimal risk of injury while using WaterRower rowing machines since they are easy to use, and their workouts are no-brainers. Because they simulate outdoor rowing, they are much safer than the actual real rowing experience, which may not be as safe as using a water-rowing machine.

Factors To Consider When Buying The Water Rower Machine

A water rowing machine is such a good investment in your gym equipment. You may spend a lot of money when purchasing one, depending on the brand and the type of water rower machine you pick. Therefore, it’s essential to have a list of factors to consider during purchase to avoid making mistakes or buying the wrong water rower. Here are some of the factors to keep in mind:

Budget

Budget is significant when sourcing for your rowing machine because you have to know the size of your pocket before picking one. Your budget will guide you in selecting the brand, model, and other aspects. Water-rowing machines have different price ranges and can cost you thousands if you are not precise with what you want. You can always seek a model that’s within a fair price range suitable for your fitness needs.

Quality

Quality is the second thing you want to consider when sourcing the best waterrower machine. That means you must find a water-rowing machine made of durable materials and parts. A high-quality product will last long and ensure you get value for your money. For any gym equipment, you want to avoid the ones made of poor and low-quality materials and cheap parts. Quality products don’t easily break down. Therefore, you save money from frequent maintenance, repairs, and unnecessary upgrades.

Dimensions And Storage

When shopping for the rowing machine, you want to check the dimensions because they will influence where you store your equipment. If you have a smaller space, consider using an outer rowing machine with smaller dimensions that will take a little space. You can choose the convertible ones for easy storage, too. If you have ample space, you can opt for a different model that may be bulky but is more effective and has better features.

Features

When buying a waterrower rowing machine, consider the features because they influence your workout’s effectiveness. Some waterrower machines will have unique tech features, apps, and prominent display units that offer guided exercises and training. Also, look out for water-rower machines with tracking and entertainment programs to elevate your workout experience. Consider the ones that give you different workout sessions and training guidance to break routines and have fun fitness routines.

Customer Reviews

Lastly, consider checking out the customer reviews before buying any waterrower. The customer reviews will give you honest customer feedback and experience that brand marketing doesn’t show you. It’s essential to note both the positive and the negative reviews and then decide after doing so.

final-sec verdictConclusion

A water rowing machine is such a great yet expensive addition to your workout equipment. Therefore, you’d want to get it right when picking the best waterrower machine. We also know how hard it can be to filter through fake brands and overhyped rowing machines that aren’t effective or durable.

That’s why we’ve compiled all the information that you need to know about them in this article. We’ve further discussed factors to consider when buying to make your work more manageable so that you can get started on your water rowing machine workouts as soon as possible. We are confident you’ll find this article helpful in helping you make your decision on what water rower to get on the market that’ll serve you right.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What Is The Best Water Machine Near Me?
A. The rowing machine can vary from brand to brand according to your preferences, features, and fitness needs.

Q. What’s The Price Of A Water Rowing Machine?
A. Price varies from one machine to the other depending on brands and what you want in a water rower.

Q. How Do I Maintain My Water Rower Machine And Keep The Water Clean?
A. Every waterrower has a guide on handling and cleaning it. Start by reading what the manufacturer recommends as cleaning and maintaining practices. However, you don’t need to panic if yours doesn’t come with this guide.

Maintaining your water rower machine is easy. First, avoid cleaning it with bleach, especially when cleaning the reservoir. This will help prevent cracking and leaking, thus ensuring your water rower doesn’t break down quickly. Also, you can keep the water in your rowing machine clean by adding a chlorine tablet to the water reservoir every six months. That will help in cleaning the water and preventing it from turning green. Changing the water in your rower machine is another crucial aspect of maintaining it and preventing mold build-up.

Q. Where Do You Buy Water Machine Near Me?
A. You can get yours from a credit online store or the official brand’s website. You can also shop around from a physical fitness store near you.

Q. Who Should Use A Waterrower?
A. Anyone interested in cardio workouts can use a water rower machine. The equipment is also specifically designed to simulate the rowing feeling you get from the water rowing outdoor experience. So, if that’s a sport you like but have no time to go outside, you can try out the waterrower machine, which will give you a similar experience.

4 Sources

BodybuildingReviews avoids using tertiary references. We have strict sourcing guidelines and rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic researches from medical associations and institutions. To ensure the accuracy of articles in BodybuildingReviews, you can read more about the editorial process here.

  1. Benefits of healthy eating. (2021, May 16). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/resources-publications/benefits-of-healthy-eating.html
  2. Comparative analysis of basal physical fitness and muscle function in relation to muscle balance pattern using rowing machines. (n.d.). PubMed.
  3. Health benefits of aerobic exercise. (n.d.). PubMed.
  4. The rise of rowing in health clubs. (2021, July 26). IHRSA. https://www.ihrsa.org/improve-your-club/the-rise-of-rowing-in-health-clubs/

Christine VanDoren. PT, CSN, NSCA, ACE

Christine VanDoren, PT & Nutritionist, is a Registered Nutritionist, Sports Nutritionist, and Personal Coach worked with Justin Bauer Fitness.
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