Rowing Machines Explained – How to Chose a Rower

MotleyHealth — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 20:42:18 +0000

There is a wide range of rowing machines to choose from. When choosing a rowing machine, the first consideration should be how much space you have. If you plan to use your rowing machine occasionally at home, then you will most likely will require a smaller model, ideally one that can be folded or collapsed down. If space is not an option, then you need to fix a budget and determine your requirements.

All rowing machines essentially do the same thing, however, there are several technologies to choose from. Rowing machines create resistance in one of four different ways – Hydraulic; Air / Flywheel; Water and Magnetic Resistance.

Hydraulic Resistance Rowers

Machines in the economy end of the scale will use this type of resistance. Compressed air or fluid within a cylinder or piston creates the resistance, which is usually adjustable. They are often fold-away types, ideal for small spaces. Make sure, however, that they offer enough leg room for you to enjoy a full range of motion as they can sometimes be a little restrictive and may not allow for a natural, flowing action.

V-Fit HR2-D Hermes Hydraulic Rowing Machine
Buy new: £39.99

Air (Or Flywheel) Resistance Rowers

This can be a similar feel to that of rowing outdoors. The resistance is created by the pulling action, which in turn spins a flywheel attached to a fan that generates the resistance so the harder you pull, the greater the resistance as the fan speed increases.

Motivefitness RTX8 Air Rowing Machine (Red / Grey)
Buy new: £699.00

Magnetic Resistance

These use magnetic braking with a flywheel construction to create a very smooth, and virtually silent, rowing action. This type of resistance will be found on models in the mid to higher range and offer a very comfortable work-out.

ROMF51 Carl Lewis Fitness Magnetic Foldable Rowing Machine
Buy new: £131.40

Water Resistance

A relative newcomer and particularly useful in recreating the sensation of rowing outdoors. This is because its special water flywheel has been designed to exactly match the actions of a boat moving through water. It is almost silent in operation and is usually built within a wooden frame. They are available in a range of different frames, making them more attractive to look at and very much more expensive to buy.

Walnut WaterRower with Monitor
Buy new: £1,099.00

As with any sports equipment it is vital to choose a machine that is comfortable. If you cut corners on comfort, you’re not very likely to get good value from your purchase and could cause yourself unnecessary injuries. Make sure that the seat is comfortable and that it glides smoothly along its rails. Better quality machines will use bearing to ensure that this action is as friction- free as possible. Try out the foot stops to make sure that they fit properly. Check that the rower is suitable for your body weight; most will quote a safe maximum. Ensure that you can perform a full range of natural rowing motions and that the machine is not too small for your height.

Control Panel

Most rowing machines will have some sort on on-board consol. These can vary depending on the model; on cheaper ones the information will be basic; speed, distance travelled etc. The more expensive ones will also give information such as calories burned, heart rate readings (by way of sensor pads on the grips) and many will be pre-programmed with a range of work-outs to keep you motivated and challenged.

Selection of magnetic, hydraulic, air and water rowing machines

	ROMF51 Carl Lewis Fitness Magnetic Foldable Rowing Machine Buy new: £131.40 Usually dispatched within 24 hours
	V-Fit AR2 Super Air Rower Buy new: £139.01 Usually dispatched within 24 hours