5 Best Foldable Rowing Machines to Turn Your Living Room Into a Gym

Check out our round-up of the best running machines for home gyms

What to Consider

Durability and Quality

If you’re dropping hundreds on a complicated piece of gym equipment, you want to know that it can perform and last. That’s why it pays to buy from a company that you trust and that offers a solid, reputable product with a decent warranty. Don’t settle for a bargain-priced Amazon model from a brand you’ve never heard of just because it seems like a steal. In the world of fitness equipment, you almost always get what you pay for. If you’re planning to row on a regular basis and to keep your foldable rowing machine for the foreseeable future, consider investing good money into a model that will last.

Storage

Due to their need for complicated mechanisms and technology, these cardio machines can be big and bulky. Not many of us have the room to waste on a huge rowing machine taking up space eternally in our spare room or living area. That’s why folding models are a great way to go. But it’s important to find one that folds and stores in a way that makes sense for your home. Some rowers fold neatly in half or offer vertical storage to minimise wasted floor space. Look for models with transport wheels too, so you can easily move yours around by yourself, when folded or not.

Warranty

Given that some of these rowing machines are upwards of £1,000, buying one is a serious investment. So, it’s important to purchase from a manufacturer that offers a clear, comprehensive warranty. They vary widely across the industry, with the most budget-forward brands offering just 90 days on some parts, and others boasting generous 10-year warranties on everything. Again, the more you spend upfront, the better the warranty is likely to be. If there’s anything that isn’t clear to you about the stated warranty, be sure to ask. It’s your money, after all.

Resistance

When considering an indoor rowing machine, you’ll encounter a variety of resistance systems.

• Magnetic: Utilises magnets and a flywheel for consistent resistance, ideal for steady workouts and small spaces.
• Air: Features a fan-driven flywheel, offering dynamic resistance that increases with intensity.
• Water: Mimics the sensation of rowing on water with a water tank and paddles that offer smooth and fluid movement.
• Hydraulic: Uses hydraulic pistons for resistance regulation, delivering a budget-friendly option with potential motion limitations.

Digital Classes

The most basic foldable rowing machine design hasn’t changed much over the years, and you can still find a ‘classic’-style model for a reasonable price (like the Concept2). But, if you’re looking for a more connected experience, smart rowers like the Hydrow Wave or the Peloton Row may be the route for you. These models offer touchscreens with built-in apps that connect you to professional trainers who can motivate and work with you to better achieve your personal goals. The rowing machines with these features are more expensive upfront, but worth it for those who find more success in that class environment. If you go this route though, be sure to consider that many also require ongoing monthly subscriptions to take full advantage of those features.

How We Test Rowing Machines

Leveraging our expertise and experience, our dedicated team of MH editors and certified trainers have been diligently testing the best rowing machines for years. Throughout the process, we have carefully considered numerous best-selling models from reputable and highly rated brands.

Our evaluation criteria cover all the essentials: build quality, resistance mechanism, performance, tech features, and price. To ensure a comprehensive assessment, each rowing machine has undergone rigorous trials, including varied workout routines such as high-intensity sprints, endurance-based long-distance rows, and challenging interval sessions. Our collective efforts have resulted in logging hundreds of miles on these rowers, providing invaluable insights into performance, stability, and ensuring that your investment is built to last.

The 5 Best Foldable Rowing Machines Worth Buying in 2024

It’s time to say goodbye to limited workout options and hello to convenience. We’ve got you covered with the top five foldable rowing machines on the market now.

” data-next-head/>